PREREQUISITE: 1) Auditions are held in the spring of each year. Late auditions may be scheduled by persons moving to Plano after regular auditions have been conducted. 2) Experience: Each player must have considerable ability on an instrument used in the ensemble. Beginner instruction is not generally available.

DESCRIPTION: The Senior High orchestra represents the culmination of the Plano ISD orchestra program. It is comprised of experienced string players who gain membership through audition and teacher recommendation. Heavy emphasis is placed on the importance of music as a performing art. The performance-oriented ensemble strives to provide aesthetic and creative outlets for individual as well as group expressions.

REHEARSALS: Students in Orchestra are required to attend all rehearsals. All rehearsals are considered co-curricular and attendance is reflected in the grade. One weekly rehearsal outside of class is required. This rehearsal combines the string class with selected wind and percussion players to form the PSHS Symphony Orchestra.

PERFORMANCES: The Orchestra performs as an ensemble in a number of concerts on campus as well as various competitions and programs across the state.

TESTS: Tests for this course may include performance tests (both live and taped), written tests over musical terms and basic theory tests. Credit is also given for concert performance.

PROJECTS: Each member may participate in the Plano Solo and Ensemble Festival, the UIL Solo and Ensemble Competition and personal recitals and also can audition for All-Region and All-State Orchestra.

HONORS: Honors credit is available to students who complete an additional amount of work outside the basic Orchestra curriculum. This includes theory assignments, participation in a juried recital and a research project. Honors credit is available to the 11th and 12th grades.

OUTSIDE COSTS: A concert uniform is provided for each member. The uniform consists of a tuxedo for boys and a long dress for girls. A cleaning fee is collected when the uniform is issued in the fall.

GRADE LEVEL: 11/12

CREDIT: 1

PE WAIVER: No