The orchestra program at the middle school begins in the sixth grade with instruction in violin, viola, cello, and bass. The sixth grade students are grouped into classes of students playing similar instruments. These classes meet daily and focus on establishing and developing basic musical and performance skills. The classes combine on two or more occasions during the year to present concerts for the parents and public.

In the seventh and eighth grades, students are provided their first opportunity to be a member of the string orchestra. These orchestras perform from three to five concerts each year, including performances for the University Interscholastic League (UIL) concert and sightreading events. Students may elect to participate in the PISD solo-ensemble contest, or the all-region orchestra, to further develop their individual musicianship. Rehearsal time outside the school day is usually limited to one forty-five minute sectional each week. 

The ninth and tenth grade, or high school, orchestras challenge the student with more varied and difficult literature. In addition to the UIL events in which the middle schools compete, the high school orchestras often combine with members of the band program to form a full symphony orchestra, which rehearses after school each week. In addition to the local performance opportunities, the high school orchestras take an in-state, overnight trip on alternate years. 

Throughout the years, the senior high orchestras from the Plano ISD have performed at major conventions and competitions across the nation, including appearances at New York's Carnegie Hall and Washington, D.C.'s Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. These are the most advanced orchestras in the district and offer expanded performance opportunities to the eleventh and twelfth grade students. The senior high orchestras combine with members of the band program to form a full symphony orchestra, which rehearses after school each week. UIL competition continues at this level with both full and string orchestras entering the events. The senior high orchestras take an overnight trip each year. 

For further information, please contact any of the orchestra directors listed under the music faculty page, or the performing arts office at 469-752-3083.