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​Students in grades 4 through 12 can participate in a string ensemble directed by Mrs. Lydia Most. Students will learn to play various genres of music as an ensemble, and perform at school functions and community events. 

Orchestra classes are divided as follows:

Beginning Orchestra
Welcome to all 4th graders who have never played a string instrument! Introductory orchestra will provide the solid technical foundation for future growth. Students will make their debut in a winter concert.

Junior High Orchestra
JH Orchestra has class 4 days a week. 5th graders who have taken Beginning Orchestra are included in this group. Technique will focus on tone production, intonation, beginning shifting and vibrato.  Performance opportunities include Christmas and Spring Concerts, ACSI Music Festival, IEMA Solo/Ensemble Festival, and State Organizationals. 

High School Orchestra
High School Orchestra meets for class 4 days a week. Performance opportunities include Christmas and Spring Concerts, Grove Fest, ACSI Music Festival, IEMA Solo/Ensemble Festival, and State Organizationals. 

Hello! I am Lydia Most and have the privilege of directing orchestra here at Grace. I hold a BA in Music (violin) and ministry electives in education, from Moody Bible Institute. I studied violin with David Taylor, assistant concertmaster of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and more recently, studied cello with Carol Semmes of ONU. I have taught private violin lessons for 15 years, have been certified by the Music Teacher's Association and am a member of America String Teacher's Association (ASTA). 

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Sing to him a new song;
    play skillfully on the strings, with loud shouts. For the word of the Lord is upright,
    and all his work is done in faithfulness. 
Psalm 33:3-4

Materials Needed for the 2019-2020 school year

Beginning Orchestra
Instrument
Accessories (shoulder rest or endpin rest, soft cloth, rosin)
"Artistry in Strings" Book 1 - Robert Frost and Gerald Fischbach

Junior-high Orchestra
Instrument and accessories, mute
"Sound Innovations for String Orchestra- Sound Development" - Bob Phillips and Kirk Moss 

High-school Orchestra
Instrument and accessories, mute
"Habits of a Successful String Musician" - Christopher Selby

WHERE CAN I FIND AN INSTRUMENT?

Students who are still growing would benefit the most from renting and instrument. Young children will need a smaller sized instrument (1/2 or 3/4 size) and will gradually move up sizes as they grow.  Renting allows you to switch sizes without any additional cost. Once the student is ready for a full-size instrument, we can discuss what a good purchase for that student would be. Plum Grove Music is fully supplied with quality violins, violas and cellos and all rent can go toward a purchase from them in the future. Although located in Indiana, they deliver instruments to Grace on a weekly basis.

DOES THE SCHOOL HAVE INSTRUMENTS?

At this time the school does not have string instruments available for rent.

IS THERE AN EXTRA COST FOR ORCHESTRA AT GRACE?

Orchestra is offered free of charge. Students are required to own or rent an instrument. They also need to purchase a book and needed supplies for their instrument.