Orchestra FAQs
Does orchestra take up all of my time?
No! Orchestra is a commitment, just like anything of worth, but does not prevent you from participating in other SHS classes, activities, and co-curriculars. SHS orchestra students participate in virtually all other campus activities and sports.
Is high school orchestra difficult?
Just like anything worth your time, being in the SHS Orchestra takes effort. However, we have a spot for ALL students, regardless of your current level. Our biggest wish is for all students to achieve consistently and enjoy the learning process. Every aspect of our program is designed to foster and encourage musical and personal maturity. From students with many years of experience to younger students or students with fewer years of experience, all are welcome and will find a home in the SHS orchestra program.
I've heard the SHS Orchestras earn honors credit?
Yes, almost all of our 11th and 12th graders earn district honors credit and UC honors credit in their 11th and 12th grade year. Students must be enrolled in 9th Grade (Orchestra II) and 10th Grade (Orchestra III) to follow the sequence outlined by the UC system to earn this credit.
Do we meet at all before school begins in the fall?
No. Information materials, including some music, will be sent to all students and posted online, but there are no meetings until the first day of regular classes.
Are there outside class/evening class rehearsals?
Yes. This time is built into the curriculum and is considered part of the "homework" for the class, just as you would have outside homework for any class. The calendar indicates these weekly rehearsals and students must arrange calendars accordingly, and see faculty with immovable conflicts.
Are there full symphony orchestras?
Yes. Students perform as part of a symphony orchestra during Semester II. The first portion of the year is dedicated to chamber string literature and training. In December, auditioned wind and percussion players from the band program will join us in the Saratoga Symphony Orchestra or the Saratoga Philharmonic Orchestra.
Is everyone in the full Symphony Orchestra?
Yes. There are two symphony orchestras at Saratoga High: The Saratoga Symphony Orchestra (SSO), consisting of mainly 11th and 12th graders, and the Saratoga Philharmonic Orchestra (SPO), consisting of mainly 9th and 10th graders.
Does the Orchestra Tour?
Yes. We typically take a major tour every 3 years, with small tours in between. For example, in 2014 we spent two weeks traveling and performing throughout Spain. In 2009, our advanced string orchestra, Saratoga Strings, also performed in Carnegie Hall and over the summer we traveled to Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. Prior to that, we performed in Australia in 2006.
Are there fundraisers to help pay for orchestra events and tours?
Yes. We have several every year. Students will have their own “account” set up by our music boosters for these purposes.
Do I have to attend all performances?
Yes! Orchestra is a group performance class. Performance situations can’t be recreated around each individual student. These growth experiences occur infrequently and are very important to the development of the student. Since we depend on each other so much, it is a great loss to miss anyone. Each student’s contribution is critical and irreplaceable. You will receive a performance schedule well in advance. If changes occur in the schedule, you will be notified immediately.
What classes should I take?
Here is what a typical freshmen class schedule will look like for first semester:
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Without fall sports:
1. English 9 2. PE or Marching Band PE 3. Health and Drivers Ed 4. Orchestra II 5. Math 6. Science 7. Foreign Language |
With fall sports:
1. English 9 2. Health and Driver's Ed 3. Math 4. Orchestra II 5. Science 6. Foreign Language 7. Sports PE |
Is it possible to be in orchestra and band?
Yes, definitely during Semester I. A choice between the two would need to be made during Semester II unless a student were enrolled in Winter Guard or Winter Percussion for PE credit.
Here's how it would look:
Here's how it would look:
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Semester I:
1. Orchestra II 2. PE Marching Band (satisfies PE credit) 3. English 9 4. Health and Drivers Ed. 5. Math 6. Science 7. Foreign Language |
Semester II (without Winter Guard or Winter Percussion)
1. Orchestra II or Band II 2. PE Class or Sport 3. English 9 4. Health and Drivers Ed. 5. Math 6. Science 7. Foreign Language Semester II (WITH Winter Guard or Winter Percussion) 1. Orchestra II 2. Band II 3. English 9 4. Health and Drivers Ed. 5. Math 6. Science 7. Foreign Language 8. (Outside of day) Winter Guard or Winter Percussion |
Is it possible if I'm in Orchestra AND Band to earn Honors Credit for both as outlined during my Junior Year?
Yes, if selecting the second Semester II option above, this is possible. There are at least 6-12 students doing this annually. They are happy to share their experience!
Do I have to take private lessons?
We highly recommend students to take private lessons, or group lessons of some sort. However, they are not required. Students who truly excel academically are usually involved with private lessons. Successful music programs typically have a large percentage of their students studying privately. The percentage of students in our current class who study privately is 90%. The frequency of lessons varies greatly. Some students take an hour private lesson weekly, some 30 minutes, some every other week, etc. Please see Mr. Boitz or staff if you need a recommendation or list of potential private teachers in the area. Students who do not study privately are highly encouraged to seek extra help as often as needed.
Does the school provide instruments?
The school helps with larger, more expensive instruments. Basses and Cellos are provided for use while at school so students don’t need to bring large instruments to and from school every day. The school also has a few violas. We do encourage students to purchase a good quality instrument for concert performances. Often students will play these instruments for the rest of their lives in one capacity or another: community groups, college ensembles, churches, synagogues, etc.! It is worth owning a good instrument. A good quality instrument (unlike modern technology) will sustain its value, and in many cases actually increase in value with time!
If I want to switch to another instrument, which do you recommend?
BASS, BASS, BASS! We are actually always in need of a few more viola players for each class, but currently we are short bass players! Chances are also much greater for admission into our advanced classes, honor groups, and scholarships if you play one of these. We highly recommend students switching instruments to take private lessons.
As it hard to get an "A" in Orchestra?
95% of our students earn an “A” in orchestra. Earning anything less than an “A” means you are simply not meeting the proficiency and commitment requirements. You will receive a detailed grading policy in your orchestra syllabus.
Does Orchestra look good on college applications?
ABSOLUTELY!! In fact, most college admissions departments seek out music students, as they recognize the higher brainpower and commitment involved in our discipline. Our graduates are attending some of the top universities and colleges in the country. Arguably no other organization on the SHS campus has a more incredible record of college placement than instrumental music (orchestra and band). Every year, the music office phone rings with questions from college admissions departments regarding our students. This year alone Mr. Boitz wrote over 30 recommendation letters for orchestra/band students, as well as 11 students applied with a Performing Arts Supplement to demonstrate the work they have done during high school (this doesn’t include the 5 students applying as music majors). Most of our students stand out when compared to non-music students, and every year we have graduates earning scholarships based on their music participation and academic merit, regardless of applied major.
Do I need to be enrolled in Orchestra for both semesters?
Yes. The orchestra curriculum is set up as a year-long course, just as a foreign language class. Exceptions can be made in unusual circumstances, but must be approved by Mr. Boitz and the SHS Guidance Department.
What are ways parents can get involved with the Orchestra?
The most important thing parents can do is to fully support students by providing the ingredients for success for all academic endeavors. In music, some of these are: private lessons, good instruments, praise and encouragement, patient ears, and, most importantly, attend all events and performances. The orchestra relies heavily on parent volunteers for many things. Becoming a member of the music boosters and volunteering when available is greatly appreciated. In general, orchestra students are fun and inspirational people to be with. Our volunteer parents have a wonderful time volunteering!
Who should I contact with more questions?
Please contact Mr. Boitz. Email is often the most efficient method of communication for quick questions.
