A Parent’s Guide to Getting Started With School Orchestra

Participating in the school orchestra can be a transformative experience for students, but for many parents, getting started can be confusing. 

At Schmitt Music, we’ve been Making Music Makers for more than 126 years. We’ve met thousands of new orchestra students and their parents, and we’ve helped them get more familiar with their instruments and find joy in making music. 

In this parent’s guide, we’ll explore what a school orchestra is, how it differs from a school band, the music played, the instruments involved, the benefits of joining, and how you can support your student musician. 

What is a school orchestra?

If you didn’t play in the school orchestra yourself, your first question might be, What is school orchestra exactly? 

In its simplest form, an orchestra is a large ensemble of musicians who play various instruments together, creating a rich symphonic sound. 

It’s a collective effort where every musician contributes their unique skills to produce a harmonious performance. The conductor plays a crucial role in guiding and coordinating the orchestra, ensuring that every musician plays their part.

How does school orchestra differ from school band?

While both school orchestras and school bands involve group performances and showcase instrumental talents, they have some fundamental differences. 

School orchestras are home to bowed string instruments: the violin, viola, cello, and bass (sometimes called a double bass or upright bass). More advanced orchestras may include winds and percussion in their instrumentation, though at the beginning level you will likely only encounter string orchestras. In both band and orchestra, your director will serve as the conductor, organizing the group and helping you work through pieces.

School orchestras typically perform a couple of concerts per school year, but may also be involved in other school events, competitions, or various extracurricular opportunities. Extracurricular orchestra opportunities can include pit orchestras for musical theater, chamber music ensembles, and solo & ensemble contests. These opportunities vary by school, so reach out to your director to see what is available to you.

What instruments are part of the school orchestra?

Most beginning orchestras are strings-only orchestras. Strings are the backbone of the orchestra and produce sound through the vibration of their strings. The highest pitched string instrument is the violin, followed by the viola. The cello and bass make up the low register of a string orchestra.  

What are the benefits of joining the school orchestra?

Participating in the school orchestra offers numerous benefits for students. It helps foster teamwork, discipline, and perseverance while developing a deep appreciation for music and much more.

• Learning to play an instrument: Joining an orchestra provides students with the opportunity to learn how to play a musical instrument at a young age. This can help develop fine motor skills, improve hand-eye coordination, and strengthen memory and concentration.

• Developing musical skills: Orchestra members improve their musical abilities through regular practice and performances. This develops skills such as playing in tune, reading music, and playing with good tone and expression.

• Learning teamwork and collaboration: Much like playing a sport, playing in a musical ensemble requires teamwork and collaboration. Orchestra members must work together to create a unified sound and rhythm, and they must be able to listen and respond to each other’s playing.

• Building self-confidence: Regular practice and performances can help build self-confidence and self-esteem in band members. As they develop their musical abilities and perform in front of audiences, they may feel a sense of accomplishment and pride.

• Developing discipline and responsibility: Being part of an orchestra requires discipline and responsibility, as band members must regularly attend rehearsals and performances, practice their instruments, and maintain their equipment.

• Making new friends: Playing in a school orchestra helps students meet, socialize, and bond with other students  with a shared interest. Many students and educators alike credit some of their best school-age memories to their music class and the unique bonds 

• Experiencing the joy of music: Most importantly, joining an orchestra is a fun and rewarding way to experience the joy of making music. At Schmitt Music, we’re dedicated to making music makers and developing the life-enriching skills that music provides.

How to support your student musician

Many parents of first-time orchestra students wonder how they can support their students, especially during the first year when it’s easy to get frustrated with your instrument.

• Create a supportive environment at home: Getting started with an instrument is tough, and students need time and space to practice at home to get the most out of their instrument. Find a quiet place at home for your child to practice without distractions. Accessories like a music stand and a metronome can help them get the most out of their practice sessions.
• Set realistic goals: When your child wants to play a piece of music that’s a little too advanced for them, it’s easy to get discouraged. Help your child set realistic goals. Establishing small-but-achievable musical milestones will help your child feel accomplished and keep progressing forward.
• Attend performances: By attending performances, you’re showing your child that you’re interested and supportive. Attending performances also gives you an opportunity to see exactly how your child is progressing within the context of a full ensemble.
• Get Involved: Connect with your student’s orchestra teacher for opportunities to volunteer with or otherwise support your school music program, or learn about other ways to support your student’s individual growth.

What is the Better Than Rent program?

Schmitt Music’s Better Than Rent Instrument Trial Purchase program gives your child the chance to start school band or orchestra with a quality-controlled, educator-approved instrument. Simply select your instrument, choose a delivery option, and make low monthly payments.

The school orchestra provides a platform for students and parents alike to embrace the enchanting world of music. By understanding what an orchestra is, the repertoire it performs, the instruments involved, and the distinctions between orchestra and band, you can fully appreciate and support your child’s musical journey. 

If you have questions about the school orchestra, particular instruments, or just want to talk to someone about the benefits of playing music at a young age, we’re here to help. 

Get started now by clicking here.

At Schmitt Music, we’re proud to have been Making Music Makers for more than 126 years and counting! Join the fun and feel the comfort of a true music partner by your side.