I am not sure I want my child to do music? 

Remember when your children wouldn’t eat the food you made for them? You always said, “Try it before you decide you don’t like it.” Music is the same way. Your child should sign up for orchestra even if you or they are unsure. If at some point you decide that music is not for you, drop the class. It is much easier to drop something after trying it, than to join late when everyone else has already started.​

I don't know anything about music! 

That’s ok! We will teach your child everything they need to know, step by step. From how to care for the instrument to reading notes and rhythms, we will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude and patient ears when your child comes home and makes their first sound.​

How much out of school time is required? 

Music is no different than any other curricular area. We ask that your child spend some time with their instrument each and every week – on average about 15-30 minutes each night. Think of it as musical homework, but way more fun!
In 7th and 8th grade, depending on the class, there are weekly sectionals that happen once a week for 45 minutes. All performances for all grades happen outside the class as well.

Can my child still play sports/participate in clubs? 

Absolutely! In fact, many of our students participate in a sport or club outside of orchestra and manage to find time to practice and be successful in both activities.

Does my child need prior experience? 

No! While a background in piano or similar instrument can be helpful to a student’s understanding of musical concepts, it is NOT necessary to have prior knowledge or training. Most of the students in the Williams Middle School Orchestra had no prior music training outside their regular elementary music class.

Why should my child join in 6th grade? 

Sixth grade is the best time for your child to join orchestra. Our program and school schedule are geared towards students starting orchestra in the 6th grade. Starting in the 6th grade gives your student the most amount of time on their instrument through middle and high school orchestra.