Curricular Orchestras
Concert Orchestra is a class designed for all freshmen entering the BHS Orchestra program. The emphasis in this class is placed on the Batavia High School music essential learning outcomes through the study of modern and classical string orchestra literature. Students will focus on developing technical skills in bowing and left-hand facility, as well as in music literacy and sight-reading. Participation in evening performances throughout the year (approximately one per term) is required. Advanced freshmen may also audition for Chamber Orchestra.
Sinfonietta is open to all sophomores, juniors, and seniors and will develop and expand upon fundamental technique and musicianship by exploring more challenging repertoire for the string ensemble. Emphasis is placed on developing independence as well as cultivating mastery of more advanced techniques, such as 3 octave scales and refining vibrato. The orchestra will highlight the fundamentals of shifting to upper octaves on the instruments as well as refining vibrato and bowing techniques. Participation in evening performances throughout the year (approximately one per term) is required.
Symphony Orchestra is a class designed for 9th – 12th graders who have experience with a stringed instrument and who are continuing to develop technical and musical proficiency. Emphasis is placed on music literacy, bowing, vibrato, intonation, and rhythm, as well as techniques of ensemble playing through the study of progressive technical studies and intermediate modern and classical orchestra literature. Placement in Symphony Orchestra is based upon audition (takes place annually in January). Participation in evening performances throughout the year (approximately one per term) is required.
Philharmonic Orchestra is a class designed for advanced players who have a serious interest in playing orchestral music. Students in this class must demonstrate a high level of technical facility on their instruments, and continued emphasis is placed on the development of musicianship through progressive technical studies and advanced modern and classical orchestra literature. Philharmonic Orchestra regularly combines with members of the BHS Wind Symphony to perform works in the symphonic orchestra setting. Placement in Philharmonic Orchestra is based upon audition (takes place annually in January). Private instruction is strongly encouraged for all members of the Philharmonic Orchestra. Participation in evening performances throughout the year (approximately one per term) is required.
