Information

DSC09807Click here to register your child for the 2020-2021 DOES orchestra program.

Watch this great video that includes important information on the string instruments as well as a short clip of our concert last December.

INSERT BE PART OF THE ORCHESTRA

Students in the Howard County Public School System may join the orchestra program in third, fourth, or fifth grade. The Howard County Public School System offers instrumental music instruction from third through twelfth grade. At DOES, orchestra students can choose to learn the violin, viola, cello, or string bass.

There are FOUR amazing orchestra instruments!

Below you will find detailed information and videos about each of the string instruments offered at Dayton Oaks.

The Violin

  • Highest pitched instrument in the string section
  • Goes on the left shoulder
  • Strings are E-A-D-G
  • Watch this video of Ms. Sutton demonstrating the sounds of the violin

INSERT VIOLIN VIDEO

The Viola

  • Range is right in the middle (not too high or too low)
  • Perfect if you like the look and feel of violin but wish it was more mellow and low
  • Usually harmonizes for the orchestra–meaning it gives orchestras a fuller sound
  • Strings are A-D-G-C
  • Goes on your left shoulder
  • Watch this video of Ms. Sutton demonstrating the sounds of the viola

INSERT VIOLA VIDEO

The Cello

  • Deeper and larger than the violin and viola
  • Strings are A-D-G-C
  • Sit to play unlike the other stringed instruments
  • Gets a mix of melody (main themes) and harmony
  • Watch this video of Ms. Sutton’s friend, Mr. Rose, demonstrating the sounds of the cello

INSERT CELLO VIDEO

The Bass

Largest and deepest of the string instruments

Strings are -G-D-A-E

Plays the bass line and gives the orchestra power

You look like a boss because it is GIANT

Watch this video of Ms. Sutton’s friend, Yoshi, demonstrating the sounds of the bass

INSERT BASS VIDEO

Curious to hear what all the string instruments sound like together?  Click on the video below to hear “Into The Unknown.”

https://hcpss.instructuremedia.com/embed/ed09c4da-7dbd-4181-84f8-452a3fedacdc

Beginning orchestra students (1st year) have two homogeneous synchronous and one asynchronous group lessons each week.  Advanced orchestra students (2nd and 3rd year) have two heterogeneous synchronous and one asynchronous group lesson each week.

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Participation in the orchestra program enriches the students in many ways. Being a member of this group helps the students learn what it takes to be part of a team, how to better organize their time to allow for sufficient practice, and the dedication it takes to succeed.