The Hopkins Music Department will be offering 2 7th and 8th grade String Orchestra Classes in 2007-08, Intermediate Orchestra & Advanced Orchestra.  These classes will be open to all 7th and 8th graders who play violin, viola, cello and string bass.  Please read the details of the class below:

• The class will meet everyday during the normal school day at Hopkins Junior High School.  Greg Conway, Director of Instrumental Music at Hopkins JHS,  will be the instructor.

• Students must have AT LEAST 1 years experience, with 2 years preferred, on their string instrument.

• NO BEGINNERS - Students without the proper experience will be removed from the class

• NO NON-STRING PLAYERS - If you do not play violin, viola, cello, or string bass, then you may not sign up.

Students will study string instrument technique and music theory.  They will work on improving their technique and skills through exercises, etudes, small group playing, full orchestra literature, and method book study.  Students will participate in 2-4 concerts during the school year, as well as the possibility of a trip to Anaheim, CA to participate in a music festival.  Please see theCourse Descriptions for more details.

HOW TO SIGN UP FOR ORCHESTRA

Signing up for orchestra is easy.  Your student will receive a signup for 7th or 8th grade in late February or early March.  On the sign-up form you will see a spot for electives with ORCHESTRA listed, along with many other choices.

To receive Orchestra, list the number "1" next to the class name on the sign-up sheet.  This will guarantee you a spot in orchestra, providing that your student does not have another unique class during the same period (Ex.  Adaptive P.E., etc).  You will also be required to number the other electives as well, just do so to complete the form.  MAKE SURE that ORCHESTRA has a "1" next to it!

NOTE - RUMOR ALERT!! - Some parents have told me that they have heard that listing the elective class your student wants as their 2nd choice is better because you never get your 1st choice.  THIS IS NOT TRUE, ESPECIALLY WITH MUSIC CLASSES!  They ONLY way to get a music class is to list it as your FIRST CHOICE.  If you don't, then you won't get the class.  TRUST ME, I'VE GONE THROUGH THIS BEFORE!!

It is essential that we get a good amount of participation in this program for the future success of orchestra classes in the Fremont USD.  Please tell a friend (or two or three) who have played a string instrument for at least 2 years to sign-up as well. 

Involvement in music benefits the students in many ways.  Colleges look highly upon student’s who participate in music.  The enjoyment that a student gets from succeeding on their instrument and the lasting friendships that are made will stay with them for a lifetime.