Junior Piedmont Youth Orchestra 2003-2004

Thanks!
-Leslie
919-969-7216

Junior PYO Orchestra

This string orchestra invites elementary and middle-school students who read music and play primarily in first position. First-violin parts and some cello parts often require shifting, however, and more difficult repertoire is rehearsed as the year progresses. The junior orchestra prepares individual students for more advanced orchestral literature by developing their ensemble skills, with careful attention paid to intonation, rhythmic accuracy, and good tone. Music is chosen which will challenge the more developed players while encouraging the less experienced ones. Quality performances are the standard, and serious commitment is expected from all students.

A training ensemble is offered as well, for students whose reading skills are still developing and are not quite ready for the orchestra. The focus in this group is on listening to one another and staying together with a steady pulse; rhythmic awareness, intonation, and expression are emphasized as well. Students in this ensemble join the junior orchestra in performance.

Rehearsals for both groups take place THURSDAYS at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (on the corner of Rosemary and Pickard Streets in downtown Chapel Hill). The orchestra meets 4:30 - 5:30 throughout the year. The training ensemble meets 3:45-4:30 in the fall, but begins a different, overlapping schedule (4:00-5:00) as concert dates approach; often this new schedule continues throughout the spring semester.

All students must audition with Ms. Alperin each year. This is a friendly meeting, designed to determine the needs and strengths of each player, and to place each in the appropriate group. Players are asked to perform a 2-octave scale (C for lower strings, G for violins) at various tempi set by the conductor, and then a polished piece. Some sight-reading material will be introduced also. Generally, even those students whose reading skills are minimal are accepted; a WILLINGNESS TO WORK and a COOPERATIVE ATTITUDE are the most important requirements for all.

Leslie Alperin, Conductor