Course Description: This elective course can be repeated each year for a maximum of eight (8) units. It requires playing experience and ability at intermediate and/or advanced levels. Attendance at MHS orchestra concerts is required.

Supplementary Course Text: Essential Elements for Strings. Kjos.

Required Student Course Materials: Individual instrument; rosin, mute, shoulder pad (violins and violas), rock stop (cellos), concert attire.

Fees: $15

Essential Academic Content/Competencies:

A. Music reading skills
1. Rhythmic notation
2. Pitch notation
3. Terminology/musical symbols
4. Key/meter recognition

B. Listening skills
1. Following directions
2. Tone
3. Pitch
4. Style

C. Instrumental technique
1. Scale/rudiment technique
2. Tone production
3. Articulation/bowing technique
4. Dynamics
5. Intonation
6. Vibrato
7. Shifting

D. Ensemble skills
1. Balance
2. Intonation
3. Blend
4. Phrasing
5. Response to conductor's verbal and nonverbal cues
6. Dynamics
7. Precision

E. Performance skills
1. Stage presence
2. Concert etiquette

F. Music foundations
1. Theory
2. History
3. Composition

G. Evaluation
1. Individual performance
2. Ensemble performance
3. Musical analysis

Primary Thinking Skills Emphasized:
* Recognition
* Demonstration
* Evaluation

Primary Social Skills/Character Development Emphasized:
* Teamwork
* Responsibility
* Sense of ownership