Why is music education so important?

String playing benefits children in many ways including socially, academically, and emotionally, as described by the American String Teachers Association!  We hope that all of our students leave our classrooms with a lifelong love of music for future generations. In our program, students learn life lessons about self-discipline, goal-setting, cooperative learning, integrity, teamwork, responsibility, commitment to something larger than themselves, and hard work so that they can go out into the world and impact it in a positive way.

I don't know anything about music!

We will guide your child through the process of learning everything they need to know about music and how to play their instrument successfully.  While a background in piano or another instrument can be helpful, it is not necessary to have any prior knowledge.  Most of the students in the school orchestras had no prior music training before their 6th grade orchestra class.  The only requirement to be in the orchestra program is to commit to learning the long-term process of learning something new! 

Why should my child join in 6th grade?

Sixth Grade is the formal entry point for your child to join the orchestra program.  It is the only time in which your child is able to secure a place in our program. Our curriculum is cumulative and geared towards students starting orchestra in 6th grade. 

How much out of school time is required?

Our goal is to motivate your child to love playing their instrument as often as possible.  However, we know life is busy and it will conflict with other activities.  We ask that your child spend 15-30 minutes each night outside of school practicing their instrument.   Think of it as musical homework, but much more active and fun!  In junior high and high school, there are weekly sectionals outside the school day once a week for 45 minutes.  All grade-driven performances take place outside the class as well.

How can I help my child practice?

Set regular times for practice and then help your child stick with it.  Discipline is a life skill and part of growing up that must be modeled by their parents. Removing distractions, such as technology, pets, or siblings will help them be more focused.  Support their practice by listening to them, having a mini concert, or making a recording for long-distance family members!  Another fun idea is to encourage them to get together with other students once in a while to practice together as social time.

How many concerts are there per year?

The 6th grade orchestras have 2-3 concerts per year while junior high and high school have 3-4 concerts per year.  The orchestras may also perform at other venues, competitions and events throughout the year.

Can my child still participate in other extracurricular activities?

Absolutely!  In fact, many of our students participate in a sport or clubs outside of orchestra and manage to find time to practice and be successful in both activities.  We often celebrate having a Top Ten Graduating Student at the high school

My child chose to be in orchestra next year.  Now what?

You and your student must attend the String Drive (typically in the spring) that is offered at your elementary school or feeder junior high.  At that time, your child will pick what instrument they want to play and will be sized for their instrument.  You can then rent one from anyone you like.  You can check out the local rental & supply stores here.

Do I have to purchase an instrument right now?

We recommend renting an instrument for the 6th grade year. Instrument rentals start at about $30-$35 a month, and are usually set up on a rent to own type of plan or instrument credit plan. Please visit the Instrument page for more information about renting and purchasing an instrument.

PLEASE, DO NOT BUY AN INSTRUMENT ONLINE! We know they seem like a great deal but are not always of the highest quality, which will inhibit the success for your budding musician. They don’t stay in tune, have poor sound, and are very prone to unfixable breakage. A “good looking violin” you purchase online for $150 will cost you $300 in adjustments before it can even be played, and will always sound terrible - leading to a great deal of frustration on your child’s part. 

My child wants to play cello or bass.  Do they have to bring their instruments to school daily?

While violins and violas will bring their instruments daily, cellos and basses leave their personal instrument at home and use a school instrument at school.  All they need to bring to school is their music for rehearsal.

How do I get my child's instrument repaired?

Your orchestra director may be able to perform some minor repairs so have your student check with their director first.  If that doesn't work, contact the rental company to learn details about their repair policies. Some rental companies will even come pick up the instrument from the student's school and provide a replacement while it is being fixed!  If you own your own instrument, find a reputable Luthier or contact the store in which you purchased the instrument.  When in doubt, ask your director for help!

How do I upgrade or purchase my child's instrument?

If you are renting, contact your rental shop and they will help you upgrade to a larger size or better quality instrument.  You will need to upgrade instrument quality as your child progresses in the program because they will have more advanced skill demands that only higher quality instruments will respond to.  If you are buying, do NOT buy an inexpensive instrument.   If you are purchasing, it is time to commit to buying a high level instrument that will last your student’s playing career - high school or beyond. It is best to buy local where your student can try instruments in person to see what really fits their body and musical ear.  Read more about purchasing an instrument on the Instrument page.  Please ask your director for guidance!

What supplies does my child need and where can I purchase them?

Visit the Instrument page to find a list of supplies and where to purchase them. Your student’s director has this list, as well as the local store you are renting from.

Should my child take private lessons?

White private lessons are optional, they are highly recommended to grow the success of your individual student.  We have a fantastic private lesson program where our students can get one-on-one private help during the school day from a professional teacher and musician who is able to address the specific needs of the individual child. Our students, including 6th graders, may contact these private teachers directly to receive further instruction outside the school day.   Private lessons are at the expense of the student, however some scholarships are available.  Lesson rates are set by the district.

I still have questions! How can I help the orchestra program?

Volunteer!  There are lots of opportunities for parent help with the fundraisers, concerts and field trips.  Contact your student’s director to see what needs they may have.  If your child is planning on continuing with orchestra through high school, consider joining the Richardson Area Orchestra Booster Club by contacting the President at raoc-hub@gmail.com.

How can I contact you directly?

We know that all this information can be overwhelming especially if you don't have any musical background!  We are happy to help and want to provide a positive experience for everyone.  Please e-mail your student’s orchestra director with any additional questions.