About
Welcome to the Meridian Orchestra program! District 102 offers string instruction to students in grades 5-8.
Beginning Orchestra is made up primarily of 5th graders who are learning a string instrument for the first time. Instruction is offered on violin, viola, cello, and string bass. Students receive one small group lesson each week for 30 minutes during the school day. First-year instruction focuses on developing proper playing technique, note reading, basic rhythm skills, and tone development. Beginning Orchestra performs 3 formal evening concerts as a large ensemble. In addition, the orchestra performs for Meridian students and staff in our annual Music Extravaganza assembly in March.
Concert Orchestra is made up primarily of 6th graders who have completed Beginning Orchestra or the equivalent (such as private lessons). Students receive one small group lesson each week for 30 minutes during the school day and rehearse as a large ensemble on Mondays and Thursdays after school from 2:45-3:45. Instruction at the Concert Orchestra level builds on skills acquired in Beginning Orchestra. Students expand their note reading and rhythm skills and learn more advanced bowing techniques. The additional time together as an orchestra twice a week after school enables students to perform more complex orchestral pieces. Concert Orchestra performs 4 formal evening concerts each year. In addition, they participate in the annual Music Extravaganza assembly at Meridian in March and perform for elementary students at Tripp and Pritchett schools in the spring. Students also have the opportunity to prepare and perform a solo in the annual IGSMA Solo Contest.
The District 102 string program has grown over the past 5 years and has benefitted from the amazing support of District 102 administration, staff, parents, and students. This year, there are 107 Meridian students participating in orchestra. We are proud to offer a quality string education for District 102 students!
Mrs. Stacey Farran
sfarran@d102.org
847-353-5591 x3550