Pre-Orchestra Division
The Pre-Orchestra Division is a free 5 year program. It was
founded in 2008 as a training group for the East County Youth Symphony.
The idea of this program is to supplement private lessons by introducing our young
musicians to large ensembles where watching their more advanced peers they can clearly
see why they have to practice at home and keep improving their skills.
Students in the Pre-Orchestra Division typically will advance to the
Symphony Orchestra.
The First Year curriculum is designed to determine the
level of interest and ability to learn music for children six and seven years old.
The major components of study are introduction to violin, small ensemble, and basics of music theory.
As we all know - studying with a private teacher and practicing at home alone
can cause some frustration and be a little too hard for a young musician.
These classes open a whole new world to those who like to communicate, learn
from others, and play well known songs like "Jingle Bells" and "Mary Had a Little Lamb" together.
They are making new friends and improving their skills in a competitive and fun enviroment. All of these factors together
strongly motivate young musicians to practice at home. And, of course,
their first concert together with cookies and cake afterwards is the most
exciting part of both the spring and fall sessions. All young musicans look forward to
the "After-Concert Party".
After the first 10 weeks, each student’s progress is assessed to determine if he or she will be
accepted for a second 10 week term. Each subsequent term is by invitation only
and determined by testing, progression of skills, and attendance.
Ages 6 - 7 (Beginners accepted in Fall Term only)
Age is determined by actual age on February 1 if applying for
the Spring Term and September 1 if applying for the Fall Term. These classes are open
to all beginners. It is recommended that you rent a violin for the first term
rather than purchase.
Ages 8 - 11
Age is determined by actual age on February 1 if applying for the Spring Term and September 1
if applying for the Fall Term. Acceptance to these classes is by
AUDITION only.
It is recommended that young musicians auditioning for these classes have at least six months
of private lessons prior to the audition.
| Spring Term | January - April | Application Deadline: January 1 |
| Fall Term | August - November | Application Deadline: August 1 |
Times and locations of classes may vary each term, however, as a general rule,
they will be scheduled early weeknights or Saturday.
Following is the full course of study for those young musicians who maintain interest and
are invited to return each term: