Hertzler Hall:  It has taken the string program at LHS 30 years to grow large and prominent enough to earn its own rehearsal space, and just last year we were rewarded with exclusive use of the highly coveted Hertzler Hall.  It is essential that we keep this space looking professional at all times.  Do not expect others to pick up after you.

Instruments:  Every student is expected to have their instrument for each rehearsal.  Violin and viola players must bring their own instruments to school for use in class.  A list of local vendors is available with information about the rental and/or purchase of string instruments.  Cello and Bass players may also rent school instruments to play in class, although they will need their own instruments for practice at home.  Any student who wants to use an LHSO cello or bass will need to pay a $46 rental fee (payable to Langley High School).

Music:  Every student will need a black 3-ring binder for orchestra. (Soft cover ones fit better in violin cases).  Make the cover easily identifiable with your name and orchestra class.  Practice copies of our repertoire will be available for each student for use in class and at home so that they can be marked up for educational purposes.  Original parts will be used in concert and festival competition.  Consistent failure to bring music to class will result in a lower participation grade.

Storage:  The new rehearsal space will allow all instruments to be stored in one location.  Students are welcome to share orchestra lockers inside Hertzler on a first-come, first-serve basis.  You will need to register your locker with a student assistant and bring your own combination lock.  Do not share your combo with others, close your lock at all times, and be forewarned that belongings have gone missing from lockers that were not used diligently.

Start Time:  Now that instrument storage and class set-up are no longer problematic, there is no reason why every student cannot be seated and ready to play when the bell rings for class.  School policy dictates that you will need a pass from a teacher or the attendance office if you are late.  Repeated tardiness will not only lower your participation grade, but will also bring disciplinary action from the school administration.

Roll & Announcements:  Once the bell rings and you are seated, the student assistant will help take roll call.  Take a moment to read important information that will be displayed (in brilliant colour) on the whiteboard.  Silence is absolutely necessary for the “State of the Orchestra Address”, after which we will tune and begin to rehearse.

Private Instruction:  Although this is not mandatory for participation in the orchestra, private lessons can make an enormous difference to the musical development of a student.   With large, energetic classes, it is very difficult for one teacher to give the kind of individual attention that is required to refine string technique. The combination of an effective private instructor and an ambitious performing ensemble is an ideal circumstance for orchestral growth.  Please ask me for recommendations if you need help looking for a private string teacher in your area.

Sectional Coaches:  This year, we have an exciting list of professional coaches who have agreed to come in and share their expertise with our students.  They include members of the National Symphony, the National Ballet, The U.S. Army Strolling Strings, the Baltimore Opera, and the Levine School of Music.  Students should recognize what a privilege it is to work with these distinguished musicians and will be expected to treat them with utmost respect.

Playing Tests:  During each grading period, students be asked to prepare sections of their music for playing tests.  These excerpts will be performed with your stand partner, often in a small group with two instruments of each type.  The purpose of these exams is not to expose and terrorize string students -- this is an occasion for you to demonstrate that you have prepared sufficiently to perform our repertoire.  I will be listening for improvement over the course of the year, and will look for the student to incorporate my suggestions into subsequent playing tests.

Seating:  I believe that teamwork is the most important aspect of orchestral playing, and for that reason I discourage direct competition and “challenges” in my classes.  My seating order reflects a combination of factors: playing ability, preparation, rehearsal attitude, maturity, and leadership. Strong players tend to rise to the front, although I do give consideration to class standing.   I do make an effort to pair students on a stand who enjoy working together so long as they do not abuse that