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ABOUT OUR PROGRAM
The Rockbridge Academy Instrumental Music Program is open to students in grades one through twelve. The program is directed by Irma Cripe, a professional cellist, experienced music educator and SAA certified Suzuki Instructor.
The Instrumental Music Program began in 2006 with the fledgling Rockbridge Academy Orchestra comprised of students already experienced in their instruments. In 2007 group lessons were introduced for beginning violins and cellos. Summer Music Camps were added in 2008 to help group lesson students keep sharp during the summer months. In 2009 the program will expand again with the addition of the Scots Orchestra, a string orchestra for early-intermediate string players, as well as Strings Summer Serenade, a summer camp program for all string musicians.
ROCKBRIDGE ACADEMY ORCHESTRA
The Rockbridge Academy Orchestra is for intermediate and advanced players of any orchestral instrument. Participation is by audition only. Where group lessons are the grammar of instrument study, the Rockbridge Academy Orchestra is the rhetoric. The focus is on the performance of the whole, and not on instruction of the individual musician. Students are strongly encouraged to pursue private study in their instrument while participating with the Rockbridge Academy Orchestra.
The Rockbridge Academy Orchestra performs twice each year at the school’s Christmas and Spring Concerts. Selected students are also placed in small chamber ensembles for performance and competition.
The Rockbridge Academy Orchestra meets twice each week from 7:30 to 8:30 in the morning. Students are responsible for completing all make-up work in accordance with the Rockbridge Academy Parent/Student Handbook.
THE SCOTS ORCHESTRA
The Scots Orchestra is a string orchestra for early to intermediate string players. Participation in the orchestra is subject to general audition. The Scots Orchestra is a place of instruction, focused specifically on string instruments, preparing students for participation in the Rockbridge Academy Orchestra. At this level of study a large group lesson cannot replace private study in developing the student’s skills. Students are strongly encouraged to seek private instruction while participating with the Scots Orchestra.
The Scots Orchestra will have performance opportunities at various times during the school year including lunch-time concerts, small ensemble presentations and a Spring String Concert.
The Scots Orchestra will meet twice a week from 7:30 to 8:30 in the morning. Students are responsible for completing all make-up work in accordance with the Rockbridge Academy Parent/Student Handbook.
GROUP LESSONS
Suzuki Method group lessons are available to students in grades one to three. Students may choose to study either the violin or the cello and will be divided into Level 1 (beginner) and Level 2 (advanced beginner). Class size is generally five to ten students.
Participants in group lessons will perform in the Spring String Concert and Level 2 students will also have opportunities to play in smaller ensembles throughout the year.
Group lessons meet two times per week for half an hour, or a total of one hour per week. Parents are encouraged to attend group lessons and observe the instruction in order to assist their children with practice at home.
Group lesson meeting times occur during the school day and students are responsible for completing all make-up work in accordance with the Rockbridge Academy Parent/Student Handbook.
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
PROGRAM
REGISTRATION & FEES
2009-2010
Registration for the Rockbridge Academy Orchestra, the Scots Orchestra, and Group Lessons begins on May 1st of the previous school year. Students who register by May 20th receive a 10% discount. Registration forms are available in the school office and can be received via email by contacting the school office. Completed forms should be returned to the school office.
Group Lessons ........................ $250 per year
The Scots Orchestra ................ $225 per year
Rockbridge Academy
Orchestra .............................. $125 per year
Program fees may be paid in one lump sum at the beginning of the school year, in two payments due on September 15 and January 15, or monthly if the family is already participating in the Smart Tuition Payment Plan. Summer Strings Serenade fees are due upon registration for the camp.
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