aBOUT us

THE PROGRAM

Woodson High School Orchestras, located in Fairfax, Virginia (Fairfax County Public Schools), consists of approximately 179 students in grade 9-12 in five different ensembles. The Orchestra Program has been thriving for a tradition of excellence through admirable record of musical accomplishments, consistently earning high ratings at state assessments and competitions across the country. Some recent accomplishments include performing at the Virginia Music Educators Association Conference (invitation-only statewide) and receiving 2nd place at National Orchestra Cup and National Orchestra Festival, sponsored by American String Teachers Association (ASTA). 

The Orchestra Program is committed to offer the highest quality musical opportunities that are challenging and engaging for all participating students, no matter the level, with the hopes of fostering a love of music that will extend well beyond the classroom. The Woodson Orchestras strive to provide a collaborative, supportive, and fun environment where everyone can be a part of something larger than themselves. The program also guides students to develop both strong individual skills and the necessary ensemble skills to ensure polished and confident public performances.

classes

Woodson Orchestra is a co-curricular program open to all students who play an orchestral string instrument (violin, viola, cello, bass). Courses provide instruction in individual string instrument technical development, musical interpretive skills, ensemble training, musicianship, and leadership. Students have the opportunity to study and perform a variety of musical literature at an appropriate level of difficulty in both large and small ensembles. Instruction is in compliance with FCPS Music Program of Studies (POS) - https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/fine-arts. 

The following sections are offered:

Beginning Orchestra (Cadet) - No previous musical experience is necessary.  No audition required.  Students develop skills as individual musicians and as members of a musical group.  Basic skills on the violin, viola, cello, and double bass are introduced.  Guidance will be given by the instructor in the selection of an instrument.  Course content includes beginning level technical and ensemble skills necessary for performance.  Some performance opportunities are provided.  Students must meet both the school day and outside of the school day participation requirements to receive credit for the course. Those who maintain eligibility may also participate in field trips.  Instrumentation is decided at the instructor's discretion.  Course and uniform fees may be charged as listed in FCPS Notice 5922. Financial assistance may be requested through the Director. 

Intermediate Orchestras (Concert & Sinfonia) – Placement audition is required. Designed for players who have experience on a stringed instrument and who are continuing to develop technical and musical proficiency. Educational emphasis is on skills in bowing and left hand facility, music literacy, sight-reading, and techniques of ensemble playing. Individual daily practice is expected. Students continue developing as individual musicians and as members of a musical group. Emphasis is placed on the development of intermediate level technical and ensemble skills necessary for performance. A variety of musical styles will be studied through the playing of string orchestra literature. Students must meet both the school day and outside of the school day participation requirements to receive credit for the course. Those who maintain eligibility may also participate in field trips. Instrumentation is decided at the instructor's discretion. Course and uniform fees may be charged as listed in FCPS Notice 5922. Financial assistance may be requested through the Director. 

Advanced Orchestras (Chamber & Symphonic) – Placement audition is required.  Course is designed for experienced stringed instrument players who have mastered many of the fundamental musical skills. Emphasis is placed on technical proficiency, musical interpretation and resonant tone production, as well as independent musical discernment and leadership development. Individual daily practice is expected. Appropriate instrumentation of the ensemble may be a factor in the selection process.  Students continue developing as individual musicians and as members of a musical group.  Emphasis is placed on the development of advanced level technical and ensemble skills necessary for performance.  In depth study of musical styles will be realized through challenging string orchestra literature.  Students must meet both the school day and outside of the school day participation requirements to receive credit for the course.  Those who maintain eligibility may also participate in field trips. Instrumentation is decided at the instructor's discretion. Course and uniform feed may be charged as listed in FCPS Notice 5922. Financial assistance may be requested through the Director. 

Advanced Orchestra (Philharmonic) – Placement audition is required.  Open to students who complete a successful audition. Students in this class must demonstrate a high level of technical facility on their instruments, and continued emphasis is placed on the development of musicianship through progressive technical studies and advanced modern and classical orchestra literature. Advanced students and section leaders have additional responsibilities in rehearsals and are expected to participate in extracurricular musical opportunities (youth orchestra, district/regional honors orchestras, musical pit orchestra, etc.). Individual daily practice is required and private instruction is strongly encouraged for all members. Appropriate instrumentation of the ensemble may be a factor in the selection process.  Students in this course form the representative string performing group for the school.  Emphasis is placed on the sequential development of advanced technical ensemble and disciplinary skills necessary for refined rehearsal and artistic performances both in and out of school.  Students will continue to sculpt their individual and ensemble skills based on successful completion of sequential concepts for each level and standard specified in the course.  Philharmonic orchestra students are frequently asked, and expected, to perform for various community, statewide, and national events.  Full Orchestra setting may be explored.  Students must meet both the school day and outside of the school day participation requirements to receive credit for the course.  Those who maintain eligibility may also participate in field trips. Instrumentation is decided at the instructor's discretion. Course and uniform fees may be charged as listed in FCPS Notice 5922. Financial assistance may be requested through the Director.