Symphony Orchestra is the top, auditioned, performance-based orchestra. Students are encouraged to study privately and will perform at least 4 concerts during the school year with additional mandatory performances when appropriate venues are available. Course time is spent exploring and preparing music in varying styles from baroque, classical, romantic, modern 20th century and many other genres. Students will develop individual technical ability, musicality, intonation, tone production, music reading ability and a higher level of understanding music through the study of music theory and music history. The Symphony Orchestra is joined by members of the Wind Ensemble once a week to study and prepare full orchestra pieces. Symphony Orchestra members also have the opportunity to audition for IMEA district and all-state groups, participate in solo ensemble, and audition for the extra-curricular ensemble, Bear Strings. The Symphony Orchestra will be part of a performance tour every third year with plans to travel in a variety of music and culturally valuable venues. It is the desire that all students leave the orchestra program with a love and passion for participating in and enjoying quality music throughout their lives. This course may be repeated.

Concerts and important dates:

All scheduled concerts are mandatory- please put on your calendar at the beginning of the year.

Fall Concert: Wednesday, October 17- 7PM

Winter Concert Evening Rehearsal: Wednesday, December 5: 7-9PM

Winter Concert: Thursday, December 13- 7PM

University of Illinois Orchestra Festival: Saturday, February 23- All Day

Music in Our Schools Month Concert: Tuesday, March 12-7PM

Spring Concert: Tuesday, May 21-7PM

Extra Opportunities:

ILMEA Audition: Tuesday, October 2 (after school)

Concerto Competition: Monday, December 3,

Solo and Ensemble: Monday, March 18 (5-8)