6th Grade FAQ

About Mason Orchestras

Beginning Orchestra

Rental Information

How do we sign up?

First, plan on attending the Mason Instrument Fair! Soon after the Instrument Fair, Mr. Messer will send out information about signing up for 6th Grade Specials. When you fill out the form, be sure to select Band or Orchestra!

Can my child sign up for Choir in addition to Orchestra?

Yes! In 6th grade, students can take Choir in addition to Band or Orchestra since they meet at different times of the year.

Is there one instrument that is easier or harder than another?

Each instrument is unique with its own set of challenges. In our opinion, there is no instrument that is harder than another – it is just whatever suits that child. It is our belief that any child can learn to play the instrument they wish to play.

How should I obtain an instrument?

Please see the rental information page.

When do we need to have an instrument?

We will start orchestra the first week of school. Students will report to orchestra during the first week of school to receive classroom instructions and learn which days they will attend orchestra. They will need to bring their instruments and book the first week of school.

Does Mason offer piano or guitar?

Unfortunately, we do not offer piano or guitar. However, there are instruments that you may find similar to these. Contact one of the instrumental teachers and we can talk to you more about them.

Can my child join Orchestra after 6th grade?

We highly recommend beginning in 6th grade because there won't be an opportunity in 7th grade.

What if my child has taken private lessons?

While this is NOT a requirement and no prior experience is necessary to begin playing in orchestra, we have many students come through the orchestra program that have previously taken lessons on their instrument. We offer multiple opportunities to challenge those students that have prior experience; including: Veteran's Day performance, OMEA District 13 Honor Orchestra, small group & solo performance opportunities, and more!

We have also had students choose to learn a secondary instrument for fun! If you have further questions about this, please don't hesitate to contact one of the orchestra teachers!

What Materials do we need for Orchestra?

You need two main items to participate in 6th Grade Orchestra

Instrument
Essential Elements for Strings (book 1) method book

Other accessories needed (which may be included with your rental*):

- Rosin
- Name tag
- Music Stand (for at home practice)
- Kun style shoulder rest (violin/viola)
- Rockstop (cello/bass)

*Make sure you mention you are from Mason to take advantage of special deals some companies are offering to Mason students.

What are the expectations for practicing?

A minimum of 60 minutes of at home practice per week is expected for beginning orchestra students. Since repetition is important in learning to play a stringed instrument, 15 minutes, 4 times a week is much more beneficial than a marathon practice session.

How many concerts will there be?

There will be two performances in 6th grade. The first is typically in January after returning from winter break and the second is in May.

What are the grading procedures?

In 6th grade orchestra, we do not have letter grades. We use the Standards Based Grading (SBG) that students are accustomed to up through 5th grade. Using SBG gives us the opportunity to provide more feedback to students to improve their playing. This also takes away some of the pressure of earning a letter grade while learning a brand new skill.

There are five standards:

Vocabulary & Note Reading
Posture & Tone Production
Rhythm & Pitch
Musicianship
Assessment & Performance