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General Information for Perspective Families
For those interested DSA Orchestra, please know that we serve ALL levels of students, even those who have no experience playing a string instrument. If you're entering DSA as a rising 6th grader, you're required to participate in one year-long music course, and you may choose orchestra, band, or chorus. If you're entering DSA as a rising 7th-9th grader, you may choose a music class as one of your electives. If you have no experience playing, no matter what grade you join orchestra, you'll take String Fundamentals, the beginning course in the orchestra pathway. If you do have experience playing, you'll complete a placement assessment to determine the best course for your level of playing. Incoming 6th and 7th graders who have prior playing experience will be placed in String Development.
We hope this will answer some questions you may have about our program. If it does not, please feel free to email us and we will try to answer your questions!
How many students are in the program?
DSA Orchestra currently serves about 340 students in grades 6-12. Students enrolled in orchestra may choose to play violin, viola, cello, or bass. After 6th grade, some students choose to take multiple orchestra classes and learn another string instrument.
Do students have instruction every day?
Yes! Students play instruments every day for 50 minutes in a group setting. We place students depending on their level of playing and where we believe they are going to be most successful in their playing. Students of any grade level new to DSA are welcome to take our beginners course, String Fundamentals, even if they have never played a string instrument before.
Are students required to have personal instruments?
All students in the program are required to have personal instruments to use for practicing at home. Violin and viola students are required to bring their instruments and take home their instruments every day. Cello and Bass students must have an instrument at home and pay a small fee to use one at DSA. We recommend renting instruments from Music and Arts or High Strung Violins, both located in Durham.
How many orchestra do you have?
We have seven orchestras at DSA that offer playing opportunities for every level of playing ability. If you would like to hear each orchestra, navigate to the 'media' page on top of our website. Students are required to complete assessments to place in specific ensembles. Incoming students also need to complete a placement assessment to determine which ensemble will fit them best. You can access the assessment materials on the drop down menu of the 'Info for students/families' button at the top of the website.