Crystal Lake Middle Music Department
Beginning Orchestra
​The Beginning Orchestra class offers instruction on violin, viola, cello, and string bass instruments with a focus on the skills necessary for long-term success. Fundamentals stressed include proper posture and playing position, development of characteristic tone quality and training in music literacy. This class may also be ideal for those already with experience but who may need a review and reinforcement of music reading, playing fundamentals and technique that are vital for lasting musical development. Students of any grade level are welcome. These groups will perform in the Winter and Spring Orchestra Concerts. No audition is required for placement in the Introductory Strings.
Beginning Band
​The beginning band is designed for those students with limited or no music background. Students will be oriented to all band instruments offered prior to selection. Students will be instructed on the proper fundamentals and skills necessary to ensure a positive learning experience. Students will develop a basic understanding of music notation, two major scales, one octave of their chromatic scale and perform in the end of the semester concert.
Advanced Orchestra
​Advanced Orchestra is for students who already understand basic music reading, instrument assembly and maintenance, correct playing position and sound tone production. Instruction offers continued focus on the refinement of tone quality, technique, aural skills and music literacy. Students are required to know by memory 4 major scales and chromatic scales. This groups will perform in the Winter and Spring Orchestra Concerts various district events throughout the school year.
Advanced Band
​The Advanced & Concert Bands are intended for students who have prior experience on a band instrument. These bands will perform music at a medium difficulty level of grade I & II , and should prove to be quite a challenge to the students involved. Emphasis will be on developing the skills and fundamentals gained from the beginning band level. Students will perform from memory 4 major scales and the practical range of their chromatic scale. Students must attend all rehearsals and concerts and learn all music assigned.