The Mount Vernon Orchestra Program provides a unique opportunity for students to develop individual skills on each of the instruments of the string family—violin, viola, cello, and string bass—and to participate in orchestral ensembles.
Instruction begins in the sixth grade year at Mount Vernon Middle School, where students meet everyday in curricular classes during the Unified Arts periods. Certificated and experienced string educators teach these classes. Students in 6th grade learn the basics of playing a string instrument as well as how to read, compose, and improvise music. The group performs in two concerts throughout the year.
Mount Vernon Middle School also offers orchestra classes for both 7th and 8th grades. These classes meet everyday during the Unified Arts periods with certified string educators. Students are able to make rapid progress on their instruments and musical ability. These orchestras perform in at least four concerts throughout the year.
Mount Vernon High School offers two performing orchestras for students. Concert Orchestra mainly consists of freshmen and sophomores with the goal of skill development. Symphonic Orchestra is for advanced students with the goal of skill refinement. The orchestras perform several times each year, with a highlight being participation at the OMEA State Orchestra Event. The orchestras have received Excellent and Superior ratings in Class A, B, and C throughout the years. High school string players can also participate in several chamber ensembles that perform around the community and at OMEA Solo & Ensemble events.
The Mount Vernon High School Orchestra takes a major trip every four years. They have recently performed at the Chicago Field Museum as well as for Festival Disney in Orlando, Florida.
Orchestra students have the opportunity to audition for membership in select orchestras outside of Mount Vernon, such as Columbus Youth Orchestra, Mansfield Youth Strings, Mansfield Symphony Youth Orchestra, Knox County Symphony, The Chamber Music Connection, and the OMEA East-Central Regional Orchestra. Advanced study through private lessons is also encouraged.
The orchestra is an integral part of the comprehensive program of music education in the Mount Vernon School District, and offers instructional and performance options not available in many schools. Additional information about the Mount Vernon Orchestras can be obtained by contacting Mr. Anthony Springer at Mount Vernon High School, (740) 263-6009 ([email protected]).