Downing Middle School Orchestra
Beginner
For Students with no previous string instrument experience.
The Beginner Orchestra is made up of mostly sixth graders, but any middle schooler is welcome to join! Here, students begin learning about one of the four stringed instruments: violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students learn about technique, music theory, and begin reading music. Classes are separated by instrument, allowing more individual attention. The Beginner Orchestra performs at all concerts and competes in a spring music festival. Students also have the opportunity to choose and learn a solo. The Beginner Orchestra has won "Superior" awards, the highest honor, every year at their spring music festival!
Symphonic
For students who have been playing about a year.
The Symphonic Orchestra is made up of sixth, seventh and eighth graders. In this group, students play more difficult music and focus on intermediate techniques for their instruments. Students learn about a variety of styles in music and how to apply them to their instruments. The Symphonic Orchestra performs at all orchestra concerts, and competes in UIL Concert and Sight Reading as well as a spring festival. Students are also encouraged to compete in All Region Orchestra and the LISD Solo and Ensemble Competition. Our Symphonic Orchestra has won many "Superior" awards in both UIL Concert and Sight Reading and our spring music festival.
Chamber
For students who have been playing two or more years.
The Chamber Orchestra is made up of sixth, seventh and eighth graders. It is our more competitive, audition-only orchestra. In this group, students play more difficult music and focus on advanced techniques for their instruments. Students learn about a variety of styles in music and how to apply them to their instruments. The Chamber Orchestra performs at all orchestra concerts, and competes in UIL Concert and Sight Reading as well as a spring music festival. Students are also encouraged to compete in All Region Orchestra and the LISD Solo and Ensemble Competition. Our Chamber Orchestra has won many "Superior" awards in both UIL Concert and Sight Reading and our spring music festival. They have also received "Best In Class" and "Best in Show" at the spring music festival many times!
