String Explorers 

Our String Explorers program is designed to be a beginning strings ensemble for enthusiastic performers, and the literature we play will be roughly on par in difficulty with Suzuki Book 2-3 and graded literature 2-3. Students in this ensemble usually have about 1.5-2.5 years of experience. Students in this group:

• Understand the basic concepts of reading music
• Have Fundamental note and rhythm reading skills
• Have functional awareness of dynamics
• Have reasonable facility in the keys of D major and G major
• Are able to demonstrate use of the different parts of the bow
• Play with correct intonation the majority of the time, or demonstrate awareness of and ability to correct

Goals for this group include:

• Improve technique and performance practices
• Attain and demonstrate ensemble skills
• Achieve individual and group goals
• Incorporate the regular use of vibrato
• Create a culture of professionalism, enjoyment of music and desire to succeed
• Promotion to the next higher ensemble upon completion of a successful season

Students do not need prior orchestral experience for this group, but do need to be playing or approaching graded literature 2 level. This group rehearses from 5:00-6:30PM on Sunday afternoons. Ms. Angela Sledge conducts this group.

Recent Sample Repetoire includes

• Streets of Shilin by William Owens
• Flight by Susan Day
• Spartacus by Brian Balmages