Swope Middle School Orchestra/Guitar

Orchestra Logo
    • Beginning of the Year To-Do List:
      1. Read the 2024-2025 Orchestra Syllabus (online version click here)

        (PDF version) (click here)

      2. Complete the 'Orchestra Student/Parent Form' Form by Friday, August 16. (click here) This form includes:
        1. Orchestra Class Agreement (to complete after reading the Handbook)
        2. Needed student information
        3. School Instrument Rental Request Form (for those wanting to rent an instrument from the school)
      3. Pay Orchestra Fees. 
        • Check is best. 
        • Please put child's name in memo.
        • If paying in cash, please include an envelope with your child's name.
        • You will receive a receipt. Make sure to get it from your child.
        • If the fee is financially out of reach, please indicate in the form and email me. I will make sure that you have everything you need.
      4. Add our dates to your calendar. Our Calendar can be accessed under "Orchestra Calendar".
      5. Set your Infinite Campus Message Settings to push teacher messages to email. I will be using IC as our main form of communication. Instructions for this can be found here.
    Comments (-1)
    • Materials Needed:
      There is a $25 class fee. The music department are changing things this year and we will be purchasing items so you do not need to. Check it out:
      • Instrument (rent from school ($50 if renting from school) or local music store)
      • Uniform Shirt (provided) (no longer using Kate's Logos)
      • String book: Sound Innovations (provided)
        • 8th grade (Advanced): Book 2
        • 6th/7th graders (Beginning/Intermediate): Book 1
        • *Intermediate: If you have Book 1 from last year, you may use it.
        • *Advanced: If you have Book 2 from last year, you may use it. If you do not, the music department will purchase it.
      • Accessories for individual instrument (provided)
      • Pocket folder to hold music and band book (provided)
      • Pencil (keep a pencil in your instrument case, we will use them daily!)
      • Portable Music Stand (optional- good for practice at home)
      • Tuner (optional- good for practice at home/there are many free apps on mobile device)
     

  • How can I get an instrument?

    You can:

    1. Rent from the School.

    If you would like to rent an instrument from the school district, you will need to return the Rental and Maintenance Agreement with the $50 rental fee by the date assigned by Ms. Pajarillo. The $50 is a WCSD fee for repairs/supplies. Instruments will not be given to the student until rental contract and fee have been signed and returned. Students and their parents/guardians will be responsible for paying for any damages caused by neglect, abuse, or carelessness.

    OR

    2. Rent one from a local music shop.

    Call first to make sure they have the instrument and correct size at the store. Most stores provide a rent to own program and may also offer insurance that covers cost of repairs.

    OR

    3. If you already have an instrument, please bring it to class as soon as possible so that I can make sure it is in playable condition and the correct size.
    • Things to remember when purchasing an instrument:
      - When purchasing an instrument, remember that your child is still growing and may not fit a full-sized instrument.
      - Ensure the instrument is from a reliable string instrument music store.
      - Be cautious of deals that seem "too good to be true," as they may involve instruments needing expensive repairs.
      - Avoid painted instruments and some online options, as they may not be of adequate quality for your child.
      - Most rental stores offer a rent-to-purchase program, allowing rental fees to be applied toward a future purchase.
      - If you need help finding a quality instrument within your budget, please contact me or a local music store.
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