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Home Learning:
Orchestra students are required to practice their string instrument at home. Individual home practice is vital to students progressing at an appropriate pace on their instrument. Violin and viola students should always stand to practice as sitting during practice creates poor posture habits.
Orchestra Level 1: 15 minutes/5 days a week
Orchestra Level 2: 30 minutes/5 days a week
Orchestra Level 3: 30minutes/5 days a week
Orchestra Level 4: 45+ minutes/5 days a week
Orchestra Level 5: 45+ minutes/5 days a week
Orchestra Level 6: 60+ minutes/5 days a week
Required after school rehearsals:
On occasion there will be mandatory after school rehearsals. Parents will be given a minimum of one week notice for mandatory after school rehearsals. If you have a conflict and your child cannot participate in the required rehearsal, you must provide a written explanation and it will have to be approved by school administration. Please be reminded that there is no supervision for students after the listed dismissal time.
Motivation and Consistency:
It is normal for children to have their motivation for practicing ebb and flow. Having a consistent time and routine for practice helps tremendously. We recommend doing at least half of their required practice time as soon as they get home. This way what they need to do is fresh in their mind.
Many times parents are hesitant to "force" their child to practice their instrument. Please consider instrument practice the same as math/reading/science homework. If you require your child to complete their homework for their academic classes, even when they complain, then you should have the same approach to their instrument practice. Children (of all ages) benefit from parents who help them set a schedule and follow a routine to meet their commitment and goals.