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Spring Concert Wrap-Up
The Spring Night at the Movies & More concert was fantastic! I’m so proud of the orchestras and how they played individually and together. I loved the finale with all 160 students performing together. We had a
huge crowd! Thank you for your support!
Oh, and my hair is doing just fine — I’m saving money without using as much shampoo, and time not having to do it in the morning. Also, another benefit is no “hat head” after baseball. :-)
Once the concert video is ready, I'll let you all know!
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| Awards Banquet – May 11, 2024 |
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Awards Banquet RSVP and Ticket Deadline
A reminder that the Student RSVP and Parent/Family ticket purchase deadline for our annual Awards Banquet is TOMORROW, Friday, May 3 at 5:00 PM. The banquet is next Saturday, May 11, at Mt. Zion UMC from 5:30-8:00
PM
Please visit our website for more information and to RSVP and purchase tickets. https://www.lassiterorchestra.org/banquet
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Banquet Volunteers Needed
Parents – we can’t put on a banquet without your help! Please see this sign-up genius to volunteer to help with the banquet, before, during, and after. THANK YOU!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AACAE2FAA8-49134191-2024#/
If you have questions about volunteering, please contact Mary George (via the link above).
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| Wrapping up the school year |
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Small Ensembles Unit & Final Exam
Starting this week, students have been working in small ensembles to prepare a piece for an in-class performance during their final exam time.
The final exam grade will consist of a small ensemble preparation grade, and a performance grade. Students will be given time in class over the next few weeks to prepare a short duet, trio, quartet or other ensemble.
Instrument Cleaning & Maintenance Day
We will have another instrument cleaning/maintenance day on Monday, May 13. This will give students a chance to clean up their instruments for the end of the year, and help get our school inventory in top shape
for a great start next year.
Parents – if you are still renting your instrument, this may be a GREAT time to upgrade to a better quality instrument and bow for your child. I'm happy to help with this process and answer any questions you might have. Fortunately
we have wonderful string vendors in the area! |
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| Orchestra Placements for 2024-2025 |
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Orchestra placements for next school year will be released on Friday, May 3. We will have a slightly larger orchestra program next year, and it looks like enrollment for each class of our four classes will hover
between 40-45 musicians.
Class placements are critical because it allows for the most applicable and appropriate instruction for the individual student. I want to make sure that every student’s needs can be met and that each of the four orchestra
classes are balanced. Placements are based partially on the submitted audition, but a majority of the decision is based on the student’s work and progress during the entire school year. Other factors that considered are
the students’ work ethic, drive and improvement, their practice habits, discipline, and potential for growth. Classes must also be balanced instrumentally as each class is a separate performing group at concerts and LGPE.
My main goal is that every student continues to improve on their instrument and grows as a confident, independent musician (and better human). Just like sports, some students are prepared for a rec team, others JV, and some varsity.
There are lots of opportunities within our orchestra program, and a place for everyone, regardless of their ability level.
As our orchestra grows, the standards of musical quality and performance expectations will also continue to rise. This growth creates more competition for available seats in upper ensembles. For next year, there will be instances
where students remain in the same orchestra course, move up a course or two, and some instances where students move down a level.
If a student stays at the same level, they must understand that each year will be different. They may have a different role in the class, perhaps moving up to serve as a section leader. In addition, the musical selections are
always different. If a student moves down a level it may mean that they did not meet the expectations of the higher level orchestra or that they require additional technical work or note reading/rhythm reading training.
It is my hope that students will find the best in their orchestra placement and be eager to continue learning, improving, and enjoying their instrument and the orchestra community. Should you have any questions or concerns about
your child’s placement, do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Dr. Laux
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