5th grade expectations
WELCOME to 5th Grade Orchestra!!!
Deciding to play an instrument is a very exciting time in a child’s life. It will encourage independence, discipline and cooperation while nurturing self-esteem. In 5th grade Orchestra, the following instruments are offered: VIOLIN, VIOLA, and CELLO (the String Bass will be offered in the future). Here is some important information about 5th grade Orchestra.
1) Currently Orchestra meets twice a week – One time in a Large Group Lesson (30 min.) and one time in a Small Group Lesson (30) of like instruments. The two lessons are held during the school day. link to current schedule
2) Practicing – Practicing IS the students homework for the Orchestra class; students won’t be able to learn all of the required songs during class time. Students should start out practicing at least 10-15 minutes a day, 5 days a week. This time will increase as we continue through the year. Students should end the year practicing 20-30 minutes, at least 5 times a week.
3) CONCERTS: There are 2-3 evening concerts every year. These performances are an important part of being in the class and attendance is not optional. Please contact Mrs. Hershey as soon as possible if there is a conflict with a performance date. Concert dates are posted on this website. link to concert dates
4) Items needed to participate in the Orchestra Class:
* INSTRUMENT; the School District does not have any instruments to rent.
* BOOK - ‘Essential Elements for Strings 2000’ with CD and DVD - cost is around $10.00
* Lint-free Rag to wipe rosin and finger prints off of their instrument
* PENCIL in their case or folder at all times
* Sponge or shoulder rest and Rubber Band - violin and viola - shoulder rest can be purchased from
Mrs. Hershey for $2.00, or for full size instruments from a music store
* Folding Music Stand for practicing at home
* Extra set of Strings (optional)
link to more information
5) COMMITMENT: Students ARE expected to stay with the Orchestra Class at least until the first concert in January. It is highly recommended that students remain the entire first year. Once the first concert is over a student will be hooked for life!!
6) INSTRUMENT RENTAL: If the student does not have a Violin, Viola or Cello, one can be rented one from the following Music Stores:
· Ward-Brodt Music Mall: 661-8600; 2200 W. Beltline Hwy (by American TV)
Steve Mellin is our representative
*IF AT ANY TIME A PARENT NEEDS TO REMOVE THEIR CHILD FROM ORCHESTRA CLASS, MRS. HERSHEY MUST RECEIVE A LETTER OR PHONE CALL FROM THE PARENT/GUARDIAN.*
If there are any questions please feel free to contact Mrs.Hershey!
McFarland Orchestra - Leanna Hershey [email protected]
Deciding to play an instrument is a very exciting time in a child’s life. It will encourage independence, discipline and cooperation while nurturing self-esteem. In 5th grade Orchestra, the following instruments are offered: VIOLIN, VIOLA, and CELLO (the String Bass will be offered in the future). Here is some important information about 5th grade Orchestra.
1) Currently Orchestra meets twice a week – One time in a Large Group Lesson (30 min.) and one time in a Small Group Lesson (30) of like instruments. The two lessons are held during the school day. link to current schedule
2) Practicing – Practicing IS the students homework for the Orchestra class; students won’t be able to learn all of the required songs during class time. Students should start out practicing at least 10-15 minutes a day, 5 days a week. This time will increase as we continue through the year. Students should end the year practicing 20-30 minutes, at least 5 times a week.
3) CONCERTS: There are 2-3 evening concerts every year. These performances are an important part of being in the class and attendance is not optional. Please contact Mrs. Hershey as soon as possible if there is a conflict with a performance date. Concert dates are posted on this website. link to concert dates
4) Items needed to participate in the Orchestra Class:
* INSTRUMENT; the School District does not have any instruments to rent.
* BOOK - ‘Essential Elements for Strings 2000’ with CD and DVD - cost is around $10.00
* Lint-free Rag to wipe rosin and finger prints off of their instrument
* PENCIL in their case or folder at all times
* Sponge or shoulder rest and Rubber Band - violin and viola - shoulder rest can be purchased from
Mrs. Hershey for $2.00, or for full size instruments from a music store
* Folding Music Stand for practicing at home
* Extra set of Strings (optional)
link to more information
5) COMMITMENT: Students ARE expected to stay with the Orchestra Class at least until the first concert in January. It is highly recommended that students remain the entire first year. Once the first concert is over a student will be hooked for life!!
6) INSTRUMENT RENTAL: If the student does not have a Violin, Viola or Cello, one can be rented one from the following Music Stores:
· Ward-Brodt Music Mall: 661-8600; 2200 W. Beltline Hwy (by American TV)
Steve Mellin is our representative
*IF AT ANY TIME A PARENT NEEDS TO REMOVE THEIR CHILD FROM ORCHESTRA CLASS, MRS. HERSHEY MUST RECEIVE A LETTER OR PHONE CALL FROM THE PARENT/GUARDIAN.*
If there are any questions please feel free to contact Mrs.Hershey!
McFarland Orchestra - Leanna Hershey [email protected]