Our Program * Our Students
Elementary Orchestras
Students in the Kirkwood School District have an opportunity to begin Orchestra in the 4th Beginning 4th Grade Class. This class is taught by differentiated instruction. Students are required to complete Essential Elements Book 1 by the end of the student's first year of study. Students have an opportunity to continue as a 5th grader in the Advanced 5th Grade Orchestra. Students continue with differentiated instruction as well as group learning.
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Students perform 3 times during the school year:
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Open House typically held in December. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend their child's morning class.
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Festival of Strings held in March. This is the first official performance of the school year and involves ALL Strings Students 4th - 12th grade
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Spring Concert held in May. This is the final concert of the year and involves 4th and 5th Grade Band and Orchestra Students
Middle School Orchestras
Students in the Kirkwood School District have an opportunity to continue in Orchestra in our Middle School Orchestra (6th - 8th Grade). Classes are taught in a group setting. Students focus on the following:
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6th Grade
Review Essential Elements Book 2
Introduction of Shifting, Vibrato, Posture, Intonation
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7th Grade
Shifting, Expression, Phrasing, 2 octave scales and arpeggios
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8th Grade
Shifting, Expression, Phrasing, 3 octave scales and arpeggios, KHS audition material
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Students perform 3 times during the school year:
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Winter Concert held in December
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Festival of Strings held in March
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Spring Concert held in May.
High School Orchestras
Kirkwood High School has two premier orchestras. Students are admitted through audition only. Classes meet 4 days a week
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Both Concert and Symphonic Orchestra consist of students in 9th-12th grade.
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Students perform 3 times during the school year:
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Winter Concert held in December
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Festival of Strings held in March
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Spring Concert held in May. ​
