Frequently Asked Questions
Why is music education so important?
We are passionate about the difference that a quality music education can have on a child’s future. We recognize that only a handful of students will leave our classroom and go on to become full time musicians or orchestra directors. Our hope for all of our students is that they leave our class with a lifelong love of music. In our orchestras, students learn life lessons about self-discipline, goal setting, cooperative learning, integrity, teamwork, responsibility, commitment to something larger than themselves, and hard work so that they can go out into the world and impact it in a positive way. It is our goal to produce outstanding orchestras, outstanding musicians, and outstanding people.
I don't know anything about music!
That's OK! We will teach your child everything they need to know, step-by-step. From how to care for the instrument to reading notes and rhythms, we will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude and patient ears when you child comes home and makes their first sound.
Does my child need prior experience?
No! While a background in piano or similar instrument can be helpful to a student's understanding of musical concepts, it is NOT necessary to have prior knowledge or training. Most of the students in the middle school orchestras had no prior music training outside their regular elementary music class. The only requirement to be in orchestra is a desire to be there!
Why should my child join in 6th grade?
Sixth Grade is the best time for your child to join orchestra. Our program and school schedule are geared towards students starting orchestra in 6th grade. Starting in 6th grade gives your student the most amount of time on their instrument through middle and high school orchestra.
Time Commitment
How much out of school time is required?
In an ideal world, individuals find the time to do what they love every day! Our goal is to motivate your child to love playing their instrument. However, we know there can be many conflicts with other interests. Music is no different than any other curricular area. We ask that your child spend some time with their instrument each and every week - on average between 15 to 30 minutes each night. Think of it as musical homework, but much more fun. In 7th and 8th grades, depending on the class, there are weekly sectionals that happen once a week for 45 minutes. All performances for all grades happen outside the class as well.
How can I help my child practice?
- Set regular times for practice and then help your child stick with it. Learning discipline is a significant part of growing up. Parents should model it, and encourage their children as they slowly learn it for themselves.
- Get rid of other distractions whether technology or siblings.
- Listen to them. Have a mini concert once a week, or have them make a recording for you or family members who might not live near by.
- Encourage them to get together with other students once in a while to practice together.
How many concerts are there?
The Elementary Schools have 2-3 concerts per year while Middle Schools have 3-4 concerts per year. The orchestras may also perform at other venues, competitions and events throughout the year. Event dates will be e-mailed to the parents and available through Canvas.
Can my child still participate in other extracurricular activities?
Absolutely! In fact, many of our students participate in a sport or club outside of orchestra and manage to find time to practice and be successful in both activities.
Instruments
My child chose to be in orchestra next year. Now what?
You and your student must attend the String Drive in the spring. At that time, your child will pick what instrument they want to play and will be sized for their instrument. You can then rent one from anyone you like. You can check out the local rental & supply stores here.
Do I have to purchase an instrument right now?
NO! We recommend renting an instrument to start with. Instrument rentals start at about $20-$25 a month, and are usually set up on a rent to own type of plan or instrument credit plan. Please visit the Obtaining an Instrument page for more information about renting and purchasing an instrument.
PLEASE, DO NOT BUY AN INSTRUMENT ONLINE! We know they seem like a great deal but in our opinion, those instruments are TERRIBLE. They don’t stay in tune, sound awful, and are very prone to unfixable breakage. A “good looking violin” you purchase online for $150 will cost you $300 in adjustments before it can even be played, and will always sound terrible - leading to a great deal of frustration on your child’s part.
PLEASE, DO NOT BUY AN INSTRUMENT ONLINE! We know they seem like a great deal but in our opinion, those instruments are TERRIBLE. They don’t stay in tune, sound awful, and are very prone to unfixable breakage. A “good looking violin” you purchase online for $150 will cost you $300 in adjustments before it can even be played, and will always sound terrible - leading to a great deal of frustration on your child’s part.
My child wants to play cello or bass. Do they have to bring their instruments to school daily?
While violins and violas will bring their instruments daily, cellos and basses leave their personal instrument at HOME and use a school instrument at school. All they need to bring to school is their music to practice.
How do I get my child's instrument repaired?
- Your orchestra director may be able to perform some minor repairs so have your child check with the director first.
- If that doesn't work, contact the rental company for how to have it repaired. Some rental companies will come pick up the instrument from the student's school and provide a replacement.
- If you own your own instrument, find a reputable Luthier or contact the store where you purchased the instrument from.
How do I upgrade or purchase my child's instrument?
- If you are renting, contact your rental shop and they will help you upgrade to a larger size instrument.
- If you are buying, do NOT buy an inexpensive instrument. Most likely an inexpensive instrument is a cheap instrument. Generally, you should not buy anything on the internet. Read more about purchasing an instrument on the Obtaining an Instrument page.
What supplies does my child need and where can I purchase them?
Visit the Obtaining an Instrument page to find a list of supplies and where to purchase them.
Lessons
Should my child take private lessons?
We LOVE when kids want to improve their abilities! We have a fantastic private lesson program where our middle school students can get one-on-one private help during the school day from a professional teacher and musician who is able to address the specific needs of the individual child. Our sixth grade students may also contact these same private teachers to receive further instruction outside the school day. Private lessons are optional, but highly recommended. Private lessons are at the expense of the student.
I still have questions!
How can I help the orchestra program?
Volunteer! There are lots of opportunities for parent help with the fundraisers, concerts and field trips. Contact your Orchestra Director to see what their needs are. If your child is planning on continuing with orchestra through high school, consider joining the Rockwall High School Orchestra Booster Clubs.
How can I contact you directly?
We know that all this information can be overwhelming especially if you don't have any musical background! We are happy to help and want to provide a positive experience for everyone. Please e-mail your child's orchestra director for any additional questions.
