Q: What instruments are in the orchestra?
A: The orchestra is composed of stringed instruments such as violin, viola, cello, and bass
Q: I play the piano, is that a good thing?
A: YES! Actually, if you have music experience you would be great in the orchestra program. Not only would it be easy for you to learn your new instrument, but you will have opportunities to perform on the piano with the orchestra or as a soloist.
Q: I heard there was HARP program at FMS? How can I play that instrument?
A: Yes! FMS orchestra now has harps! We are going into our second successful harp year. Only 4 students can be accepted into the harp program at FMS. Though anyone can begin in the sixth grade, our harp teacher is looking for students who have piano experience.
Q: Is string double bass the same as an electric bass?
A: Yes it is! In fact, the string bass and electric bass have the same strings and note names. The only difference is that an electric bass has frets and you hold it horizontally, while the string bass is played sitting or standing vertically, or upright.
Q: Do I need any kind of musical experience to play in the 6th grade orchestra at FMS?
A: No way! Ms. Flores will teach you everything you need to know, from reading notes and rhythms to playing the instrument plucking and the bow!
Q: Why should I choose to be in orchestra in the 6th grade and not another elective?
A: Great Question! Stringed instruments are played with a bow (the long wooden stick thing). The bow is our special voice and we can play lots of cool techniques with it. Starting orchestra in the sixth grade will better prepare you for all the fun and cool pieces you want to play later. If you know you want to play an instrument, play in the orchestra your sixth grade year?then in your seventh grade you can choose another elective to add.
Q: Does the orchestra participate in fun activities outside of school?
A: We sure do!!! Ms. Flores loves to reward the orchestras by taking them to various contests such as The Sandy Lake Festival, and UIL. The Advanced Orchestra goes every year to play holiday music at Stonebriar Mall. She also organizes game nights at school where she will buy everyone pizza and snacks and provides fun activities like jump houses, video games, and basketball. This year we are having game night at Gatti Town!!! Oh, and I almost forgot to mention the end of the year trip to Hurricane Harbor or Six Flags!
Q: I am involved in lots of activities outside of school and I don't think I will have time to practice, what should I do?
A: Well, practice time is important. But let me explain it like this.it doesn't matter what elective you choose, you will need to put in some homework time for every class, right? No freebie classes at FMS? sorry.
Q: I'm pretty small right now. How can I possibly play those instruments?
A: Another great question! Actually, orchestra instruments are perfect for young students because they are made of wood and can fit any size person, unlike band instruments (they only come in one size). They make small versions of every instrument so you don't have to worry about orchestra instruments being to big. As you grow, you can get your instrument exchanged for a bigger one. cool, huh?
Q: What is the FMS Fiddle Fair and when is it?
A: The fiddle fair is held AT FOWLER MS on Saturday, February 7th of 2008!. it is a day where all 5th graders will come to FMS to try the instruments out. The fiddle fair is the only opportunity a 5th grader will get to play the instruments with a specialized teacher, so make sure you book your appointment with Ms. Flores soon!
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