Music
  Program

String Orchestra

The String Orchestra offers instruction for students who have one year or less of string instrument experience. This class introduces and reinforces fundamental performance techniques in violin, viola, cello, and double bass as well as basic musicianship and music theory. Students with previous string knowledge who wish to begin instruction on a second string instrument may also enroll. School instruments are provided on a limited basis. Performances include the annual Holiday and Spring Concerts. Through the generosity of the Gail Dorin Foundation, weekly coaching sessions are held for students in this ensemble that supplement the course curriculum.
Prerequisite:

• Enrollment by audition or discretion of director.
• Grade level: 6 - 8

Symphony Orchestra

The JAMS Symphony Orchestra offers instruction in intermediate ensemble techniques as well as individual musicianship skills. This ensemble performs as a string orchestra and the students will become familiar with standard string orchestra literature. It is recommended that the student provides his/her own instrument. Performances include the Holiday and Spring Concerts, as well as the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association Festival.
 
Emphasis is placed on intermediate to advanced ensemble techniques as well as individual musicianship skills. Students are strongly encouraged to provide their own instruments, since school instruments are limited.
Prerequisites:

• At least one year previous string experience (or discretion of director).
• Proficiency of the following major scales: C, G, D, A, F, B-flat, E-flat
• A 3-minute solo demonstrating technique and musicianship
• Sight-reading will be provided
• Private lessons recommended
• Grade level: 6 - 8

Chamber Orchestra

The JAMS Chamber Orchestra emphasizes advanced ensemble techniques as well as individual musicianship skills (vibrato, shifting, etc.). Students are strongly encouraged to provide their own instruments, since school instruments are limited. This group will incorporate wind and percussion students from Wind Ensemble and Concert Band so that our young musicians may experience the ensemble techniques and literature of a full symphonic orchestra. In addition to the regular class rehearsals, students are required to attend afterschool rehearsals every Wednesday from 3:15 - 4:30pm. Performances include the annual Holiday and Spring Concerts, the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association Festival, and the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District's annual presentation of Stairway of the Stars.
Prerequisites:

• At least two years previous string experience (or discretion of director)
• Proficiency of the following major scales: C, G, D, A, E, B, F, B-flat, E-flat, A-flat, D-flat
• A 3-minute solo demonstrating technique and musicianship
• Sight-reading will be provided
• Private lessons highly recommended
• Grade level: 6 - 8
  
  

Orchestra