5th Grade String Orchestra Program

The Rockwood Fifth Grade Orchestra program is an elective class offered to students enrolled in fourth grade orchestra.

• Orchestra is a graded course requiring a year-long commitment.
• Students must participate in the Fifth Grade Orchestra in order to enroll in the orchestra in middle school.
• Current violin and viola students will continue instruction on the same instrument during their fifth grade year.
• Most cello students will continue instruction on the cello. Some cello students may have the option to switch to bass in their fifth grade year. If your child is interested in playing bass, contact your child's strings teacher.
• Students must provide their own instruments and accessories. Students in need may request to borrow a school instrument for the year. Requests will be handled on a first come-first served basis.
• Classes meet twice weekly for 30 minutes during the Specials block during the school day.
• All students must transport the instrument back and forth to school twice weekly.
• For continued success, all orchestra students should practice at least 60 minutes per week at home.
• All students in the orchestra will continue to learn how to read music, advance their playing and ensemble skills, and will perform in a concert.

Participation in the orchestra program provides many opportunities for young students to express themselves, learn social skills, and engage in positive peer interactions. It also promotes self- discipline, self-evaluation, and the perseverance needed to meet the rigorous standards held by colleges and universities as well as the global working community.