Middle
School Orchestra 
"It's a String Thing!"
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A.C. Crews Orchestra Boosters (ACCOB) |
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County Orchestras: Kendall Orchestra Gwinnett County Youth Symphony |
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or
E-mail Ms. Phillips at
school
or
E-mail
Ms. Schmeelk at school
Crews
MS phone: 770-982-6940
About the
Sixth graders will have orientation during the first week of school. Students will have the opportunity to hear the orchestra instruments which are taught at CMS. Students who are remotely interested in playing an orchestra instrument are encouraged to enroll. Students who enroll will receive further orientation on the instruments offered at CMS during the following weeks. Student will then choose the instrument that they would like to play - the violin, the viola, the cello, or the bass. Students will receive group instruction on the instrument of their choice on a daily basis during the school day.
It is extremely difficult to join the orchestra in the 7th and 8th grade, as there exists no beginning classes in these grade levels. Private lessons will be necessary for the beginning 7th or 8th grader to reach the performance level of the ongoing orchestra classes.
Students will need to rent an instrument for practice at home. Those students playing violin and viola will need to transport their instrument to and from home on the bus. Those students playing cello and bass will share instruments provided at our school by Gwinnett County Schools. All cello and bass players are encouraged to rent an instrument for home practice and to pay an instrument maintenance fee for the instruments shared at school.
Orchestra is an academic/performance class with an upward spiral curriculum that begins in 6th grade and continues throughout high school. There are generally three performances a year (see Calendar of Events). Students are encouraged to practice at home to accelerate their musical progress.
Families of string players are asked to support their young musician by providing a quiet place to practice, renting an instrument, purchasing needed material, purchasing or renting the orchestra uniform (see Orchestra Uniforms), joining the Orchestra Boosters (see Orchestra Boosters), and attending the A. C. Crews Middle School performances.
In addition to the connection string classes, orchestra students have many opportunities for individual musical growth after regular school hours. String students may elect to participate in County-wide Orchestra auditions in September, Solo and Ensemble Performance Evaluation in November, "Violapaloosa" Festival in February, 6th grade County-wide Honor Tapestry Orchestra in April, various community and church orchestras throughout the year, All-State Orchestra (first audition - October), summer music camps, and/or study with a private teacher.
A.C. Crews Orchestra?
(Let the students speak!!!)
"Because it's cool!"
"Because playing an instrument makes me smart!"
"Because my friends are in my class!"
"Because Music is My Life!"
"Because of the parties!"
"Because I love my instrument!"
"Because I want to be in the Orchestra at
"Because it's FUN!"
"Because we make great music!"
For more reasons, check out this website:
Remember: "It's a String Thing!"
Goals of the Alton C. Crews Orchestra Boosters:
Promote the activities of the orchestra program at Alton C. Crews. Promote sociability and friendship among its members and their families. Assist the public school system in promoting and developing an outstanding music-education and music-appreciation program.
Please join the Alton C. Crews Orchestra Boosters, Inc.
Please contact Mrs. Mellard, Mrs. Phillips, or Mrs. Schmeelk for a membership form -$15 annual donation.
In addition to membership, we also need VOLUNTEERS.
Please contact Mrs. Mellard, Mrs. Phillips, or Mrs. Schmeelk if you wish to help.
Gwinnett County Public Schools
Honor Orchestra Program
Under the direction of the office of the Gwinnett County Coordinator for Fine Arts, the Honor Orchestra Program consists of two performance organizations which rehearse on a weekly basis throughout the school year and present concerts at the end of each semester. Membership in one of these organizations is an honor reserved for serious students who wish to increase their understanding of the works of the classical music masters. Students are expected to practice on their own with the assistance of their private teachers, and should be prepared in advance for each weekly rehearsal.
The Kendall Youth Orchestra may perform as a string orchestra or may include full orchestra arrangements with the appropriate complement of woodwinds, brass and percussion. This orchestra is open to students in 6th-9th grade who are currently enrolled in a GCPS orchestra program. The conductors are assisted in preparations for concerts by members of the orchestra faculty, band faculty, area professionals, and private teachers. Students selected to be members of this group will focus on musicianship and technique and will learn the etiquette and rules of conduct required of professional orchestra members.
The Gwinnett County Youth Symphony performs standard professional repertoire for strings and full orchestra, and selected full orchestra arrangements. The orchestra consists of a large string section with a full complement of appropriate woodwinds, brass, and percussion. This orchestra is open to any student enrolled in the GCPS orchestra program. The conductors are assisted in preparation for concerts by selected members of the orchestra faculty, band faculty, area professionals, and private teachers. Students selected to be members of this group will focus on musicianship, expression, and the aesthetic qualities of the music studied. Members will exhibit the etiquette and rules of conduct required of professional musicians.
Membership
Any student currently enrolled in a GCPS local school orchestra program, for the entire year, is eligible to audition for membership in the GCPS Honor Orchestra Program.
Auditions
Each orchestra member must audition every year. Auditions for the Honor Orchestra Program are held the Saturday after Labor Day. The audition is a blind audition adjudicated by two-member panels comprised of the conductors, the GCPS orchestra faculty, and if needed, private studio teachers.
The audition content for the 2007-2008 school year is as follows:
scales, excerpts and sight-reading
Audition information is give to GCPS orchestra teachers during pre-planning and is available to the students on the first day of school. Students who want to be considered for membership in both orchestras must be prepared to play the requirements for both orchestras. In the case where a student is accepted in both orchestras, that student will be placed in the Youth Symphony.
Membership Notification
Teachers will be notified of the students selected for membership in as timely a manner as possible. Teachers will notify all students who auditioned within 7 days of the audition.
Alternates
A designated number of alternates will be named by rank from the students not selected for membership in the orchestras. If openings occur in the orchestra, positions will be filled from the list of alternates.
GMEA (Georgia Music Educators Association) organizes and carries out the All-State performing program of activity in order to allow the selected students an opportunity to work with other students of equal caliber under the direction of highly qualified conductors. Each student auditions on a statewide basis and is elected on merit when judged by professionals with all other applicants across the state. Selection to All-State is recognition of excellence in musical knowledge, technique, and interpretation.
In order to participate in a Georgia All-State Orchestra, students must be enrolled in a Georgia school and be a member in good standing of the school's orchestra program at the time of the audition and the All-State event.
The fee to audition for the Georgia All-State Middle School Orchestra is $15.00.
Please make checks payable to: Alton C. Crews Middle School.
Checks are due to Mrs.
Mellard by August 31, 2007.
The District Auditions for the
Georgia All State Middle School Orchestra will be held on
The Final Auditions for the Georgia
All State Middle School Orchestra will be held on
The Georgia All State Band and Orchestra Event is
February 28, 29 &
Community Performance Opportunities
There are many church orchestras in the Brookwood area who rehearse on a regular basis. Several orchestras presently have members of the Crews Middle School Orchestra in their ranks. Information about these orchestras can be found by calling the church.
In addition to church orchestras, there are many fine, auditioned orchestras for young musicians in the metro Atlanta Area.
The Metropolitan
Youth Symphony Orchestra of Atlanta (MYSO) provides orchestral
education and performance of great orchestral literature to talented string,
wind, brass, and percussion students from the metropolitan
The primary goal of the orchestra is to further the musical education and experiences of its members. Repertoire is specifically chosen by the conductor to challenge and broaden the scope of performance experience for our musicians.
The Metropolitan Youth Concert Orchestra (MYCO) is designed for the skilled young player who is ready for their first orchestra experience. Students in the 8th grade or younger in September are the target group the concert Orchestra seeks to educate.
Check out MYSO and MYCO at the following web site:
The Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra (EYSO) is open to 8th - 12th graders. Exceptions for younger students are made at the discretion of the conductor. In order to participate a student must belong to their school's orchestra program. The EYSO is conducted by Dr. Richard Prior. Please see Mrs. Mellard if you would like more information about the group.
"Violapaloosa"
Violapaloosa is a workshop designed especially for violists. It
is a one day event that combines mini-clinics with professional
violists in the
Violapaloosa
will be held at
"6th Grade County wide Tapestry Orchestra"
The 6th grade
Tapestry Orchestra Festival is an annual
county-wide event. Mrs. Mellard, Mrs. Phillips, and Mrs. Schmeelk will choose a small percentage of their beginning
6th grade students to have the opportunity to join other Gwinnett County
beginning string players to enjoy the experience of rehearsing in and
performing with a large string orchestra conducted by a high qualified guest
clinician. The Festival begins at
Brookwood High School Orchestras
Brookwood High School curriculum of instruction offers wonderful performance experiences for our young musicians. Students may participate in the Maroon and Gold Orchestra, or audition for the Concert Orchestra, the BHS Symphonic Orchestra, or BHS Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, there are various Chamber Music Ensembles.
Students are encouraged to participate in the Orchestra Program at Brookwood for the entire four years of high school.
Dr. Gregory Pritchard and Ms. Cathie Hudnall serve as Directors of the Orchestra Program at
Please E-mail Dr. Pritchard or Ms. Hudnall with specific questions you may have:
gregory_pritchard@gwinnett.k12.ga.us cathie_hudnall@gwinnett.k12.ga.us
Visit the Brookwood High School Orchestra at www.brookwoodorchestra.org
The Orchestra AKS can be found at the following link:
There exist many opportunities for string students to continue their musical
growth during the summer months. The "Encore! Music Camp" provides an enjoyable musical experience for
orchestra students from beginner level through 9th grade.
For more information about "Encore!"
visit their website:
"Georgia ASTA Summer Orchestra Camp" at the Calvin Center in Hampton, Georgia is a comprehensive orchestra curriculum for students who have just completed grades 4-6. The option of a 4 day overnight camp or a day camp exist.
For more information about the ASTA Camp visit their website:
http://www.georgiaastacamp.com
Furman University Department of Music in Greenville, South Carolina has a week long "Furman Band and Orchestra Camp" for students age 12 and above. This camp is an opportunity to learn from an outstanding music faculty, perform with other gifted young musicians, and enjoy the University's recreational facilities.
For information about this Furman Orchestra Camp, please contact:
"Mountain Park Methodist Church School
of Music" offers instruction throughout the year on string
instruments as well as hosting summer camps. Located on
For information about this Summer Orchestra Camp, please contact:
Mountain Park United Methodist Church School of Music
1405 Rockbridge Road
Stone Mountain, Georgia
770-921-8512
"The University of Georgia," in Athens has a week long summer music camp for middle school and high school students.
For information about this UGA summer music camp contact:
Dr. Skip Taylor
706-542-2061 or
cftaylor@arches.uga.edu
Students are encouraged to take private lessons if they want to perfect their performance skills. If you are unable to locate a private instructor, please ask Mrs. Mellard, Mrs. Phillips, or Mrs. Schmeelk for the current list.
Alton C. Crews Middle School Orchestra
6th and 7th grade Orchestra members wear maroon orchestra shirts
black pants, black socks and black dress shoes.
6th grade Orchestra students purchase an Orchestra shirt that is worn for 2 years.
7th grade Orchestra students who are new to CMS will need to purchase a shirt.
The school name, Alton C. Crews, is in gold lettering and the string instrument embroidered in brown with a tan outline.
Shirts are worn with black slacks for all of our performances and at additional orchestra activities.
Cost for this shirt is $20.00.
Please make checks payable to: "Alton C. Crews Orchestra Boosters, Inc"
Below is a printable order form:
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ORCHESTRA
POLO SHIRT ORDER FORM 6th and 7th grade
Please give to Mrs. Mellard, Mrs. Mellard or Mrs. Schmeelk with payment.
Student name____________________________
6A or
6B OR
7A or 7B (please circle your child’s
class period)
Check #:___________ Amount:______________________
Size (adult) (please circle): S(34-36) M(38-40) L(42-44) XL (46-48)
8th
grade members wear Formal Uniforms
Our 8th grade members dress formally for all performances.
Each orchestra member is fitted in the early fall for a formal tux shirt, dress pants (gentlemen), pallazzo pants (ladies), vest and tie. Orchestra members need to provide their own black dress shoes and black socks.
The annual rental cost per student is $50. This rental fee includes dry cleaning and wear of uniform. Checks are to be payable to "Alton C. Crews Orchestra Boosters, Inc."
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I help my orchestra student!?
1. Encourage your students to practice and participate in all orchestra activities.
2. Attend local cultural events, particularly orchestra concerts - both professional and non professional.
3. Encourage your young musicians performance outside of school, such as church, youth orchestras, solo and ensemble, and for family members.
4. Encourage and finance private lessons.
5. Support and assist with the sale of orchestra spirit wear (orchestra shirt-6th/7th and Formal Wear-8th) which encourages unity and pride in our orchestra program.
6. Chaperone and assist during the 7th and 8th Grade "Large Group Performance Evaluation".
7. Chaperone the annual Lock-In Party.
8. Assist with our annual fundraising project in October.
Does Alton C. Crews rent instruments to students?
No, instruments must be rented from a music store.
Where can I get an instrument for my student?
Please check the yellow pages for music merchants in your area which rent musical instruments.
Be sure to call several and compare prices and services as these music stores are competitive.
What are the recommended Procedures for Instrument Rental?
1. Call several music establishments to compare the following:
monthly payments, total costs, availability, insurance/maintenance plans, repair policies, procedures for graduating into a larger instrument, procedure for graduating into a better quality instrument, and the establishment's payment plans
2. If you can, try to get a European made instrument.
3. Make sure the instrument has four fine tuners which fit under the tail piece. (Not basses)
4. A fiberglass bow with horsehair is mandatory.
What sort of supplies does my child need for the orchestra at Crews Middle School?
1. 6th grade - Essential Elements for Strings 2000 Book 1 with CD and DVD
7th grade - Essential Elements for Strings Book 2 with CD
2. Rosin
3. A soft cloth for wiping the instrument and bow after use
4. A rock stop for cellos and basses
5. A folding music stand for home practice
6. Violin and viola students must have purchased a shoulder rest that has been fitted to their instrument.
7. An extra set of strings (except for bass)
8. Uniform:
Sixth and Seventh Grade - An A.C. Crews Orchestra Shirt for concert performances
Eighth Grade - Rental of formal uniform from ACCOB
What size string instrument does my child need?
Guideline for selecting the correct sized string instrument for your student:
Instrument Size Left Hand Span* Left Arm Length Height of Child
Violin Full 5-6 inches over 24 inches
3/4 4 1/2-5 inches 21-24 inches
1/2 4-4 1/2 inches 18-21 inches
1/4 3 1/2-4 inches under 18 inches
Viola** 16 " 6 inches or more 28 inches or more
15 1/2 " 5 1/2 inches 26-27 inches
15 " 4 inches 24-25 inches
14 " 5-6 inches under 24 inches
13 1/4 " 4 1/2-5 inches 21-14 inches
Cello Full 6 inches 24 inches 60 inches
3/4 5 inches 22 inches 56 inches
1/2 4 inches 20 inches 52 inches
1/4 3 inches 18 inches 48 inches
Double Bass 3/4 6 1/2 inches 24 inches over 60 inches
1/2 5 3/4 inches 22 inches 56 inches
1/4 5 inches 20 inches 52 inches
*Between pinky and index fingers
**A 3/4 violin and a junior viola are the same length. A Full violin (4/4) is the same length as an intermediate viola.
Why should I rent an instrument instead of purchasing one?
We recommend renting an instrument rather than buying one for several reasons:
1. Your child may outgrow the size of his present instrument and need a larger size in the future.
2. These instruments are quite fragile--rental instruments usually have a damage insurance policy as part of the rental fee which will cover any accidental damage.
3. Your child may not want to pursue playing this instrument after a month or so.
Does my child need to take private lessons?
Students are encouraged to take private lessons if they want to perfect their performance skills. If you are unable to locate a private instructor, please ask Mrs. Mellard, Mrs. Phillips, and Mrs. Schmeelk for their current list.
How much should my child practice a week?
In 8th grade, we request that students practice 25 minutes a day for 5 days a week.
In 7th grade, we request that students practice 20 minutes a day for 5 days a week.
In 6th grade, we request that students practice 10 minutes a day for 5 days a week.
Practice is what determines much of the student progress as a musician. Those who practice more become better players. Those who don't practice, fall further and further behind each year. Many students in our school practice much, much more than the above requested amount. They who practice are our "star performers!"
Students are not given grades for their practicing. They are, however, evaluated on class participation and performance of music.
Will my student be able to play in the Brookwood High School Orchestra and have time for the class requirements for a college prep diploma?
The answer is YES! Nearly all students in the Brookwood High School Orchestra are college bound. It is quite possible to participate in the BHS for 4 years while completing the course work needed for college entrance. Orchestra is an excellent class for students who plan to enter college. University admissions' officials are equally are interested in GPA, SAT scores, and student "non-academic" activities when reviewing applications. Orchestra is a wonderful activity to have on a student's application. High school orchestra participation indicates dedication, teamwork, artistic ability, and higher level cognitive skills.
Solo and Ensemble Performance Evaluation
The Solo and Ensemble Performance Evaluation program sponsored by the GMEA
(Georgia Music Educators Association) is an evaluation procedure of musical performance
and sight-reading abilities for individual students, small ensembles, and
teachers. To participate in this Evaluation all teachers’ of students must have
current membership in GMEA.
General requirements for Solo and Ensemble entry are as follows:
1. All solos and ensembles in all classifications perform only one selection.
2. Ensemble groups are limited to 16 members.
3. All solos for which accompaniments are published,
must be performed with the accompaniment. See Mrs. Schmeelk
if you need an accompanist.
4. No “popular” music may be used.
5. The score, including the accompaniment part, must be submitted to the judge.
No photocopies of the score may be submitted to the judge.
6. Time limit- 10 minutes for solos and ensembles. There will be a two minute
minimum for all entries (students may perform multiple selections totaling two
minutes if necessary)
7. No instrumental ensemble part may be played by more than two persons unless
scored for more.
8. Memorization is not required.
9. There is no sight-reading requirement for string Solo and
Ensemble entries.
Adjudication for Solo and Ensemble is as
follows:
The following ratings are awarded by the one
judge:
Excellent - Denotes Division II rating. Unusually good
performance in many respects, but not worthy of the highest rating due to minor
defects. A performance of distinctive quality.
Good - Denotes Division III rating. A good performance, but
not one that is outstanding. Shows accomplishment and marked promised,
but lacks one or more essential qualities.
Fair - Denotes Division IV rating. A performance that shows
some obvious weaknesses, generally weak and uncertain.
Poor - Denotes Division V rating. A performance which reveals
much room for improvement. The students reveal almost a complete lack of
preparedness and understanding.
Any entry group may elect to perform for comments only, for which no rating
will be given.
Adjudication sheets are made available to students after the festival
The Solo and Ensemble Performance Evaluation for Strings will be held on
A $5 fee for solos and a $3 fee for each ensemble member is
due to the Directors by
Large Group Performance Evaluation
The Large Group Performance Evaluation program sponsored by the GMEA
(Georgia Music Educators Association) is an evaluation procedure of musical
performance and sight-reading abilities for large ensembles, and teachers. To
participate in this Festival all teachers’ of students must have current
membership in GMEA.
Adjudication for Large Ensemble Festival is as follows:
The following ratings are awarded by three judges:
Excellent - Denotes Division II rating. Unusually good
performance in many respects, but not worthy of the highest rating due to minor
defects. A performance of distinctive quality.
Good - Denotes Division III rating. A good performance, but
not one that is outstanding. Shows accomplishment and marked promised,
but lacks one or more essential qualities.
Fair - Denotes Division IV rating. A performance that shows
some obvious weaknesses, generally weak and uncertain.
Poor - Denotes Division V rating. A performance which reveals
much room for improvement. The students reveal almost a complete lack of
preparedness and understanding.
Any entry group may elect to perform for comments only, for which no rating
will be given.
The Large Group Performance Evaluation for Strings will be held on March 14-15, 2008.
Check out the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Online
Georgia Music Educators Association
Georgia State University School of Music
For shoulder rest information - see the Knilling String Instrument Site or the KUN website
Information about bows - see www.codabow.com.
Robert Ferst Center's Performing Arts Education Program at Georgia
Tech
Cellists - Check it Out!
Cello Planet
Learn about strings for your instrument:
SuperSensitive.com
Boosey.com
Daddario.com
Check out local music legends and take advantage of educational workshops at
the Georgia Music Hall of Fame:
Click here!
American String Teachers Association information for all
string players. Click here
How to pick out a quality instrument:
swstrings.com
Zaret
and Sons Violins
Knilling.com
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Middle School.
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