MIDDLE SCHOOL STRING ORCHESTRA PROGRAM
Tacoma Public Schools offer a BEGINNING ORCHESTRA class to all 6th grade students. The class includes instruction on the VIOLIN, VIOLA, CELLO and STRING BASS; development of music-reading skills and performance of orchestra music.
WHAT WILL MY CHILD NEED FOR ORCHESTRA CLASS?
A properly sized instrument and a method book are required. Check the sizing chart on the back of this page to determine the correct size instrument. The beginning orchestra book is called Essential Elements for Strings, Book 1 (for the student’s chosen instrument). It is published by Hal Leonard.
WHAT DOES IT COST TO RENT AN INSTRUMENT?
New instrument rental fees range from $24 to $40 a month with the larger instruments costing a bit more. Used instruments cost less to rent. Rental fees usually include insurance against fire, theft, and damage. The rental fee also applies toward the purchase of the instrument with option to upgrade to a more expensive instrument or transfer to a different instrument. District financial assistance is available in some situations. Have a parent or guardian ask the orchestra director for details.
WHERE CAN I GO TO RENT AN INSTRUMENT AND PURCHASE A METHOD BOOK?
The following information is offered as a courtesy to students and parents. The Tacoma School District refrains from recommending these or other vendors in the community.