What to expect from Overture Orchestra?
Our Overture Orchestra is designed specifically for brand-new beginners who are just starting their musical journey. In this ensemble, students will learn the fundamentals of playing a string instrument, including how to correctly hold their instrument, essential music theory concepts, and everything else that comes with developing a strong musical foundation!
We meet once a week for one hour, so practicing at home is crucial to making steady progress. To support at-home practice, we send home a fun and engaging homework sheet after each class, outlining exactly what to work on during the week. This helps students build confidence and reinforces the skills they’ve learned in class!
While private lessons outside of orchestra are not required, we highly recommend them as they can boost confidence and solidify the concepts covered during rehearsals. We do offer private lessons through our program, and parents are always welcome to reach out if they have any questions or want more information about individual instruction.
The Overture Orchestra is all about building a love for music in a supportive and encouraging environment. We’re excited to welcome new musicians to our community and help them take their first steps into the world of strings!
Required Materials
String Instrument
Instrument Accessories
Overture Orchestra is a string orchestra. Students are responsible for their own instruments. Our program does have some instruments available for rent in limited sizes. You can also rent or purchase from many music shops around the Treasure Valley. There are instruments available for cheap on Amazon (brands like Eastar, Mendini, Cecilio, etc.). PLEASE avoid these instruments. They are made from a cheap composite wood and often times have a really difficult time staying in tune. If you have any questions about instruments or sizing, feel free to reach out to us. We are happy to help!
Students are responsible for their own instrument accessories! For Violins/Violas, they will need a shoulder rest. You can find these for cheap on Amazon. Shoulder rests promote good posture and help prevent bad habits. For Cello/Bass, they will need an end pin rest. Some stores call them rock stops. It is a little circle peice that sits on the floor to keep the end pin from sliding around AND protects the floor from scratching. These can also be found for cheap on Amazon.
Lesson Book/Materials
Students are responsible for purchasing the book we will use in class. They should be sure to label it with their name and make sure they have it with them each week!
Students also need to have their own music stand!
Pencils are very important for our learning process! Always a good thing to have with you.
Required Books
Below are the 2 books we will be using this year! Please reach out if you have any questions.
Essential Elements for Strings, Book One
Easily found at most music stores around the valley or on amazon. Make sure you purchase the correct instrument!
Theory Book
Theory is incredibly important to our learning! This book is easiest found on Amazon. Make sure you purchase for the correct instrument!!