Class Information

The Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced Bands and Orchestras will provide instruction in instrumental skills through the performance of increasingly challenging music literature. They are designed to be year long classes, and it is the STMS expectation that students will stay in band or orchestra for the whole year.

Beginning Orchestra
Students may choose from: violin, viola, cello, string bass
Beginning Orchestra is designed for new players who will learn the basic concepts of playing and performing on their instruments. It is also for students who have played in 5th grade orchestra in another district and are ready for a new challenge. There are many additional opportunities for kids ready for them: playing solos at concerts and performing at Solo and Ensemble Contest. Good Demonstration videos can be found at www.bepartofthemusic.org.
STMS Orchestra Handbook

Intermediate/Advanced Orchestra
This is primarily designed for advancing players who understand the basic concepts of their instruments and demonstrate a moderately high level of playing ability. Focus is on continuing to develop tone, technique, and music reading. Students learn to read more complex rhythms, play in more keys and perform more challenging, fun music. There are additional opportunities for kids ready for them: playing solos at concerts and performing at Solo and Ensemble Contest.
STMS Orchestra Handbook

Beginning Band
Students may choose from: flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, euphonium or baritone, tuba and percussion. (oboe, bassoon and French horn with director permission) This class is designed for beginning players who will learn the basic concepts of the instruments and performance skills. Students may continue in either Intermediate or Advanced Bands (based on teacher recommendation). Good Demonstration videos can be found at www.bepartofthemusic.org.
STMS Band Handbook

Intermediate Band
This class is for advancing players who understand the basic concepts of the instruments and demonstrates a moderately high level of playing ability. We will build on previous skills,develop a better sound and play more difficult music.
STMS Band Handbook

Advanced Band
This class is for students who have shown they are ready for increasingly difficult musical challenges. Primarily open only to those students who have successfully completed Intermediate Band.
STMS Band Handbook

Summit Trail Middle School

Class Information