The orchestra is a team and depends on every member. Individuals will be heard on a periodic basis. Students will learn at their own rate, but a minimum proficiency is needed to keep the class moving at a reasonable pace. Private lessons are an outstanding way for students to receive additional instruction and make faster progress. Mr. Sievers will be happy to locate a private teacher. The rewards are well worth the cost.

Home practice is essential and expected. A minimum practice time of 120 minutes per week is needed in order to master the new skills and polish the previously learned ones. This first 9 weeks, I will not be requiring practice charts to be turned in weekly. However, I will be administering more playing tests and this will play a bigger part in the determination of grades. Consistent and careful home practice is the only way to achieve proficiency on an instrument.

Concerts are a very important aspect of the orchestra program here at Dickerson Middle School. They are both a chance to perform for an audience and a "Final Exam" that measures how well we have prepared. It is important for every student to be at every concert, not only for the sake of each student, but also for the orchestra’s sake. Factors such as balance, difficulty level, etc. are determined on the basis of the full orchestra.

If a student has a conflict with a concert he/she needs to bring a note from a parent at least 12 days prior to the concert. If a student does not attend a concert then a playing test on the concert material will be administered.

The dress for concert is:

Girls: Long black skirt (pants are okay)                              Boys: White shirt
White blouse                                                                                         Long dark tie
Black dress shoes                                                                                 Black pants
NO white stockings – black or tan are fine                                       Black shoes and socks