The Durham Middle School String Orchestra handbook provides information to students and parents about the goals, ensembles, equipment needs, grading procedures, expectations, attendance policies, and instrument care for the orchestra program. It outlines requirements for participation including daily preparation, appropriate conduct, attendance at rehearsals and concerts, and regular home practice.

1. DURHAM ORCHESTRA HANDBOOK
Part 1: General Information
Introduction
Welcome to the Durham Middle School String Orchestra! Our goal in providing this
handbook to you is to clearly communicate our desire for an excellent year and to help
our ensemble members successfully contribute to their orchestra. This handbook should
be familiar to parents and students.
Goals
Students will gain a musical sensitivity while performing within an ensemble and as a
soloist. The students will also learn music reading skills, music history, music theory and
performance skills on their chosen instrument.
Course Description
There is no previous music study necessary for this 6 th grade orchestra; however, 7th and
8th grade students are required to demonstrate appropriate ability on their instrument.
Students are required to rent / buy their own instruments for practice / rehearsal and will
be given a list of materials for the course. Basics of string instrument performance in a
group and in solo situations will be studied. Students are required to perform in all of
his/her ensemble’s concerts.
Ensembles
Each grade level will have a full string orchestra comprised of violin, viola, cello, and
double bass. There will also be an opportunity to audition for an extra-curricular group.
String Orchestra: String Orchestra is open to all 6 th, 7th, and 8th grade students. It is
strongly recommended that 7th and 8th grade students have previous string education in
order to perform at curriculum level. Sixth grade students will be taught as beginners and
do not need any previous string experience. Rehearsals take place every school day an
entire class period. This is a year-long class, and students must be committed for the full
year. Class participation and concert attendance is required.
Extra-Curricular Groups: Depending on student interest and available time, we will
have audition-based small groups. These groups will rehearse outside of school hours.
Regular attendance is required in order to maintain membership in the ensemble.
1

2. Equipment/Materials Needed (Always Label)
Daily preparation is essential for success in orchestra. Unless otherwise stated, students
are responsible for having these materials in class daily:
1. Instrument and bow, in good condition, with a clearly-marked label located in and
outside of case with student’s name, address and phone number.
(Most cases will look alike). ** Please keep a copy of the brand, model and serial
number of instrument at home.
2. Shoulder rest (violins and violas). Please make sure name is on shoulder rest.
Shoulder rests are required. It is optional to have a case for your shoulder rest.
3. Books – Make sure to get the edition for YOUR INSTRUMENT!
*6th grade method book: Essential Elements for Strings 2000: Book 1 (orange border)
*7th grade method book: Essential Elements for Strings 2000: Book 2 (purple border)
*8th grade method book: Essential Techniques for Strings 2000 (green border)
4. Black 1” 3-ring binder
5. 15 – 20 clear page protectors.
6. Music (provided in class).
7. Pencil with a good eraser.
8. Soft cloth for cleaning
9. Durham Agenda
10. Extra set of strings! Violin, Viola, and Cello students are encouraged to have an extra set of strings.
11. Folding Metal Music Stand to be used for practice at home.
12. Rock stops (cellos and basses, to use on non-carpeted floors)
13. Tuner (Optional – good for home practice)
14. Metronome (Optional – good for home practice)
Grading Procedure
Grade categories are based on the Georgia Performance Standards (GPS) for music
education. Points will be designated according to the weight of each assignment, and the
assignments will fall under the appropriate standard. The categories and percentages are
as follows:
GPS Strand: Skills and Techniques/Performance 55% of total grade
GPS Strand: Creative Expression and Communication 15% of total grade
GPS Strand: Critical Analysis/Investigation 15% of total grade
GPS Strand: Cultural and Historical Context 15% of total grade
2

3. You will notice that the majority of grades are taken from the following assignments:
Daily Rehearsal Techniques
• Prepared for class with pencil, music, and instrument.
• Uses class time wisely.
• Participates in class rehearsals, discussions, and performances.
• Evidence of teamwork in an ensemble (contributing to the group through positive
attitude, behavior, supportive comments and actions.)
Students are evaluated on their level of participation in the classroom on a daily basis.
Active and full involvement in the rehearsal process is expected. Through observation
the instructor will evaluate the individual student’s participation in class and
preparedness on a daily basis. Failure to fully participate in class by coming unprepared
(including forgetting instrument, music and/or equipment) or not actively participating
will result in a lower grade. Remember it is important to try your best!
*Performance Evaluations
Students’ performance will be periodically evaluated by performance tests. These will measure
student progress towards attainment of a specific musical goal. These tests may consist of musical
passages from literature, as well as fundamental exercises such as scales, arpeggios, technique
exercises etc.
*Written work (music theory, quizzes, and worksheets)
*Individual Practice
Any member who does not demonstrate sufficient practicing in his/her music is not only limiting
his/her individual potential and success, but is also limiting the same for the orchestra.
Remember, the orchestra is a group effort. Please do your part!
3

4. Parent Responsibilities
1. Email me, Call me, or Send in a note. I prefer to hear directly from you verbally or in
writing, rather than relay verbal messages through your child. I will need to hear from
you if your child is going to be unprepared because an instrument is in the repair shop.
Also, if you have questions about grades, attendance, etc. please contact me!
2. Mark your calendars. Please reserve time and make arrangements with work in order
to support your child at concerts and other orchestra functions.
3. Don’t try to fix a broken instrument. Bring school-owned instruments to me ASAP,
personal instruments go to a repair shop of your choice. Ask if they staff a luthier.
4. Provide concert attire. Please take note of what your child is expected to wear at our
concerts. Now is a good time to make sure they have the necessary clothing.
5. Attend concerts. Your child values your attendance. Our concerts are normally about
one hour long. If multiple ensembles are performing, it is courteous for you to stay for
the entire concert. Your child will benefit from hearing the other groups perform.
6. Financial responsibility. Please be aware that being involved in a music program is a
lot like being involved in sports or dance. There may be miscellaneous expenses that will
come your way. However, students should never have to miss an opportunity due to lack
of funds. If there is a financial situation that would hinder your child’s involvement,
please let me know! I will do whatever I can to make sure that all my students have what
they need.
7. Large instrument = Large vehicle. If your child plays the double bass or cello, please
make sure that you have a vehicle to transport the instrument. A double bass will not fit
in a sedan or hatchback. You will need an SUV or a Truck with a cover over the truck-
bed (in case of rain).
4

5. Part 2: STUDENT EXPECTATIONS
Preparation
Preparation is essential for success in orchestra. If a student makes a habit of coming
unprepared to class it is very easy for that student to fall behind, bringing the overall
quality of the ensemble down. If an instrument has to go to the shop for a repair, I ask
that parents contact me (by phone or in writing) to inform me of the situation, and it will
not affect the student’s grade. In the event that a student comes to class unprepared for 2
consecutive weeks, he/she may be jeopardizing their future with the Durham Orchestra.
Student Conduct
It takes effort from each individual in an ensemble to set the tone for an overall
successful ensemble experience. I am looking for students who positively contribute to
the education, atmosphere, and quality sound of the orchestra. Students are expected to
adhere to the code of conduct in the Durham agenda. In addition to the rules covered in
the agenda, there are some specific guidelines that our students must follow in the
orchestra class.
Guidelines:
1. Self-control and respect (people, property, yourself) are highly valued in the orchestra.
2. Raise hand to speak or ask a question.
3. Be prepared with instrument and materials.
4. Students should make every effort to use the instruments, bows, rosin, tuners, chairs,
stools, and all other orchestra-related equipment in an appropriate way.
5. As we are surrounded by fragile instruments, there will be no running or horseplay in the
orchestra.
6. GUM, FOOD, DRINKS, and COSMETIC PRODUCTS are not to be out in the orchestra
room. These items may be taken and/or thrown away.
7. Students should handle and perform on their assigned instrument only.
Classroom Procedures:
1. Enter quietly and on time.
2. Check the board for instructions.
3. By the time set by the orchestra director, be in your seat with instrument, music, pencil,
accessories and agenda.
4. Upon dismissal by the orchestra director, put away materials and follow end of class
procedures for your ensemble.
Discipline Steps:
1. Verbal Warning
2. “CAT Card” interventions
3. Isolated Seating
4. Parent Contact
5

6. Conduct Grade: After contact with a parent for inappropriate behavior, the conduct grade may be
lowered to an N or a U.
Attendance
Attendance is expected in class and at concerts. Students who consistently miss
rehearsals or concerts for unexcused reasons will be removed from orchestra. Ensembles
rely on the participation of all students involved. Concert attendance is crucial for the
success of the ensemble.
Concert Policy
Concert Performance is a Playing Test: Students will receive an automatic 100% as a
Performance Test Grade by performing in a scheduled concert with proper attire and
behavior. Behavior is assessed from the time a student walks into the orchestra room and
includes the student’s behavior as an audience member as well as his/her behavior on the
stage during the performance.
Excused Absence: In the unfortunate event of illness or death in the family, a missed
performance is excused. Parents, please let me know in writing of the situation.
Late for a concert: If a student is late for a concert, and his/her ensemble is already on
stage, it is not acceptable for that student to join the ensemble. In this situation, the
student will have to make up the performance.
Unexcused Absence: If a student misses a concert performance for any reason other
than illness or death in the family, the absence is unexcused. This includes lack of a ride,
family work hours, vacations, etc. Students who miss a concert will need to make a solo
audio or video recording of their concert repertoire to be submitted for a grade.
Concert Uniforms
Since we are striving to sound as one ensemble and not a group of soloists, we also want
to present ourselves as one ensemble. The uniform will be a first impression of your
group, before you even play a note. Students are responsible for coming to a concert
dressed appropriately. Unless otherwise stated, this is how we will dress for our concerts.
6th Grade: White Durham Music Polo shirt (will be ordered in the fall)
Black dress pants
Black dress shoes
Black Socks
7th & 8th Grade: Gowns and Tuxedos (ordered in the fall)
6

7. Instrument Storage Room
Violin and viola students will be given a storage locker for storage during the school day.
The orchestra provides padlocks with combinations. Please note that use of the
instrument storage room is a privilege and is not a guarantee. Any student who misuses
the storage room will be denied locker privileges and will not be allowed in the storage
room. The main purpose of the storage room is to give students a break from carrying
around an instrument all day. The general guidelines for using the storage room are as
follows:
1. Students will be given a permanent pass to be placed in their agenda.
2. Students may bring their instrument to the locker before homeroom begins.
3. When a student arrives to orchestra class, he/she should retrieve instrument from locker
and immediately take assigned seat.
4. At the end of the day, students will be allowed to retrieve their instruments in order to
practice at home. Any abuse of this time or failure to retrieve your instrument on a
consistent basis will result in being denied this privilege.
5. Loss of storage room access will result from negligence and misuse. Examples include:
failure to take instrument home to practice, excessive socializing, horseplay/rowdiness,
tampering with locks/lockers/equipment, and littering.
Practice
Students will periodically fill out practice logs for a grade. Students who practice feel
more comfortable with their instruments, they advance at a faster rate, and they
experience less performance anxiety than students who do not practice. I expect all
students to practice on a regular basis. This is your “homework” in orchestra. Things to
consider when you practice:
• Practicing should include scales, music from class, and something fun!
• Practice is what you do outside of class time; class is not the time to practice.
• Parents may need to remind and encourage students to practice.
• Do not practice to the point where you are in pain. Take breaks.
• Make an environment where you are not distracted during your session.
• Reward yourself for a good practice session!
Early Morning Rehearsals & Practice Time
The orchestra room will be open before school for extra-curricular rehearsals and student
practice. The orchestra room will be open from 8:15 until 8:50 AM, Tuesday through
Friday. This will be an environment where students rehearse in special ensembles or
receive individual assistance from Mr. Schroter. Once a student enters the orchestra
room for rehearsal, he/she must remain in the room until the homeroom bell. Anything
beyond diligent practice or assisting each other will result in dismissal from early
morning practice time.
7

8. Instrument Use and Care
It is strongly recommended that all students rent an instrument. String instruments come
in various sizes. As your child is still growing, it would be wise to rent (not purchase) a
string instrument to suit the size of your growing child. There are many rent-to-own
programs at stores in the area. It is best to acquire a stable and trusted student model
string instrument. This will help save problems and money for repairs in the future.
Students and parents should pay special attention to maintaining and caring for the
instrument. If an instrument needs any repairs please allow a professional to take care of
the issue. Often times I see instruments end up in worse condition because somebody
tried to fix it on their own. I am able to replace strings, re-set bridges, and tighten chin
rests. Beyond these minor repairs I ask that you seek a professional through one of our
many local music stores. For best results in maintaining your instrument please follow
these guidelines:
• Do not try to fix a broken instrument on your own, this includes parents!!!
• Never leave your instrument in a car overnight.
• If a school-owned instrument needs repairs, bring it directly to Mr. Schroter.
• Make sure the case is properly latched before picking it up.
• Wipe down strings after playing in order to remove the oils from your fingers.
• Do not use chemicals on the instrument other than those specifically made for your
instrument.
• Hard shoulder rests should not be left inside a violin/viola case on top of the instrument.
If your case does not have room for the shoulder rest, use a clip-on case.
School-owned instruments: Students who use a school-owned instrument must provide
their own rosin, shoulder rest, books and accessories. Using a school instrument is a
privilege, not a guarantee. This privilege will be taken away if the contract is broken.
The student will then be responsible to acquire his/her own instrument within 5 school
days in order to receive a passing grade in participation. Students who are assigned these
instruments are expected to take exceptional care of them. Fees may be assessed at the
end of the school year if instruments are not in good condition. Any major damage – loss
of instrument, destruction of instrument – will result in additional charges.
Basses and Cellos: Parents of bass and cello students should make arrangements to have
access to a vehicle large enough to transport a cello or an upright bass. This is especially
necessary for concerts that take place outside of Durham Middle School. Bass and cello
students are encouraged leave the rented instrument at home for practice and will be
allowed to use the school instruments for daily rehearsals (after signing a contract).
Students are welcome to use their personal instrument on the day of a concert. Repairs
and financial obligations for the maintenance of the instrument are the responsibility of
the instrument’s contract holder.
Violins and Violas: Students should bring their instruments to school in the morning
before homeroom. I hope to see every student take his or her instrument home on a
8

9. weekly basis, especially weekends and breaks. Repairs and financial obligations for the
maintenance of the instrument are the responsibility of the instrument’s contract holder.
9