Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some of the most common questions we have been asked over the years. If you have a question that is not on this list, please email Ms. Stephens at linda.stephens@cobbk12.org
Do I need to get an instrument for my child to participate in orchestra? In most cases, yes. It is the family’s responsibility to acquire and maintain the student’s orchestra instrument. Violins and Violas are very affordable to rent. Cello and bass students will have a school instrument to play on at school. These instruments are checked out to students for use in class at no charge. We would like the cello/bass students to rent an instrument for at home practice. I f the rental cost is too much, we do have cellos/basses that the students can check out for at home practice. Students will need to be a car rider on check out days since the instruments are too large to fit on the buses. Parents pay only for supplies and for repairs of student-caused damage.
Should I buy or rent an instrument? That is up to each individual family. A number of local music stores offer very competitive rental rates for the first several months. Of course, buying a new or used instrument is also an option. The main thing is that the instrument is of sufficient quality to play well, and in perfect working order.
Where should I get an instrument? It is best to get an instrument from a reputable music retailer, preferably with a service department to keep the instrument in top working condition. Buying an instrument sight unseen over the internet or from a big-box retailer often does not provide the same quality of instrument, and no expert service. You will be given a packet with flyers from a number of local music retailers when your child is evaluated for their instrument assignment.
What if we already have an instrument? Can my child play that in orchestra? In most cases, yes. There are two main points to consider. First, it must be an instrument that is a good match to the student. Some instruments require very specific physical features. Second, it must be in good playing condition. If it has been sitting unused for a while, it will almost certainly need professional adjustment. The directors are glad to evaluate used instruments to make sure they are in good playing condition.
How much time does orchestra take outside of school? In general, not very much! In order to be successful, at least some practice has to happen outside of school. The amount of time needed varies from student to student, so you are not asked to track how much time is spent practicing. In terms of performances, there are four required evening concerts in the 6th grade year.
If my child really likes orchestra, are there additional opportunities? Absolutely! Starting in January, select 6th graders are invited to join our voluntary extracurricular groups, called morning ensembles. These small groups meet once per week before school, and present a performance each semester. Other opportunities include auditions for District Honor Orchestra and All-State Orchestra. As your child progresses, you will find that more and more opportunities arise for additional involvement. None of these extra activities are required, so you can custom tailor your orchestra experience to match your child’s interests, aptitude, and schedule!
Below are answers to some of the most common questions we have been asked over the years. If you have a question that is not on this list, please email Ms. Stephens at linda.stephens@cobbk12.org
Do I need to get an instrument for my child to participate in orchestra? In most cases, yes. It is the family’s responsibility to acquire and maintain the student’s orchestra instrument. Violins and Violas are very affordable to rent. Cello and bass students will have a school instrument to play on at school. These instruments are checked out to students for use in class at no charge. We would like the cello/bass students to rent an instrument for at home practice. I f the rental cost is too much, we do have cellos/basses that the students can check out for at home practice. Students will need to be a car rider on check out days since the instruments are too large to fit on the buses. Parents pay only for supplies and for repairs of student-caused damage.
Should I buy or rent an instrument? That is up to each individual family. A number of local music stores offer very competitive rental rates for the first several months. Of course, buying a new or used instrument is also an option. The main thing is that the instrument is of sufficient quality to play well, and in perfect working order.
Where should I get an instrument? It is best to get an instrument from a reputable music retailer, preferably with a service department to keep the instrument in top working condition. Buying an instrument sight unseen over the internet or from a big-box retailer often does not provide the same quality of instrument, and no expert service. You will be given a packet with flyers from a number of local music retailers when your child is evaluated for their instrument assignment.
What if we already have an instrument? Can my child play that in orchestra? In most cases, yes. There are two main points to consider. First, it must be an instrument that is a good match to the student. Some instruments require very specific physical features. Second, it must be in good playing condition. If it has been sitting unused for a while, it will almost certainly need professional adjustment. The directors are glad to evaluate used instruments to make sure they are in good playing condition.
How much time does orchestra take outside of school? In general, not very much! In order to be successful, at least some practice has to happen outside of school. The amount of time needed varies from student to student, so you are not asked to track how much time is spent practicing. In terms of performances, there are four required evening concerts in the 6th grade year.
If my child really likes orchestra, are there additional opportunities? Absolutely! Starting in January, select 6th graders are invited to join our voluntary extracurricular groups, called morning ensembles. These small groups meet once per week before school, and present a performance each semester. Other opportunities include auditions for District Honor Orchestra and All-State Orchestra. As your child progresses, you will find that more and more opportunities arise for additional involvement. None of these extra activities are required, so you can custom tailor your orchestra experience to match your child’s interests, aptitude, and schedule!