Instrumental Music at Bethany

Course Offerings: 

Beginning Instruments (grades 5) 

All 5th grade students will be enrolled in Beginning Instruments as a required class. Students may choose to participate in either Beginning Orchestra or Beginning Band. Instruments and lesson books will be provided by the school for all 5th grade students. 6th graders will have the opportunity to join Beginning Orchestra or Beginning Band if they wish (instrument rental info will be provided). Students will have the opportunity to try out the instruments and determine which instrument they want to learn during the first few weeks of school. More information on this process will be sent separately. Instrument choices for Beginning Orchestra include violin, viola, cello, and string bass. Instrument choices for Beginning Band include flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, and percussion. During the first year, students will learn basic playing technique for their instrument, note reading and rhythm skills, ensemble skills, and general musicianship. Students will participate in two concerts during the first year. 

Middle School Band and Middle School Orchestra (grades 6-8) 

These ensembles meet during the school day as elective classes and are open to students who have had at least one year of instruction on their instrument. Students will continue to build upon previously learned skills and will participate in 4 concerts during the school year. In addition, students will have the opportunity to participate in the annual ISSMA Solo and Ensemble and Organizational Contests. 

High School Band and High School Orchestra (grades 9-12) 

These ensembles meet during the school day as elective classes and are open to students who have completed Middle School Band or Orchestra or the equivalent (i.e. private lessons). Students will refine their playing technique, learn more advanced skills on their instrument, and work with more advanced literature. Performance opportunities include 3-4 main concerts, ISSMA Solo and Ensemble Contest, ISSMA H.S. Organizational Contests, and other opportunities as they become available. 

Please feel free to contact us with any questions! We look forward to working with the band and orchestra students! 

Brook Bennett, Director of Orchestras                       Aaron Johnson, Director of Bands

[email protected]                                              [email protected]

Learn more about our performing arts programs and to see a full list of concerts here.