|  | | |
| email Mr. Paraskevas
About the Strings program
Greenhill Chamber Orchestra (Upper School - year long course)
The Greenhill Chamber Orchestra rehearses and performs a wide range of literature selected generally from the standard repertoire for string orchestra. Students also prepare appropriate chamber music works from the standard literature (string trios, piano trios, string quartets, quintets, etc.) The Chamber Orchestra collaborates with the Greenhill wind, choral, dance, and theater groups for many of its performances. Participation in Chamber Orchestra is open to students of intermediate to advanced ability. Daily practice is required in addition to regular participation in rehearsal. Private lessons are not required, but students who do not study privately are required to meet with Mr. Paraskevas several times each trimester for individual help.
Sinfonia (7/8th Grades - year long course)
This ensemble is composed of intermediate to advanced level 7/8th grade string players. Students rehearse alternately in the large group (Sinfonia) and in chamber groups (duos, trios, quartets). A variety of musical styles are studied: from baroque and classical era staples of the string literature to pop arrangements and music in alternative fiddle and jazz styles. Sinfonia rehearses in the Recital Hall.
Philharmonia (7/8th Grades - trimester course)
This class is designed for students who are interested string players but who are not quite ready for Sinfonia. Students are encouraged to prepare appropriate solo pieces along with scales and exercises that elevate their playing to a level that allows them to participate in Sinfonia.
Sixth Grade Strings
Sixth grade Strings is taught in two sections: A second-year class (Strings 6.0) is offered for students who are continuing their instruction in strings that began the previous year.
Another section (Strings 6.5) accommodates students who have been playing for several years.
Activities in both sections are designed to confirm good practice habits, solid foundation technique, and good habits of musicianship. Students are introduced to appropriate works of chamber music selected from the general repertory. Both classes culminate with participation in the Greenhill Sinfonia in 7/8th grades and the Greenhill Chamber Orchestra in Upper School.
Fifth Grade Strings
Fifth grade Strings is taught in two sections. A beginning section (Strings 5.0) is available for students who wish to begin the study of violin, viola, cello, or string bass. In this class students are guided in the development of a foundation technique enabling them to play simple melodies with good tone and with accurate intonation and rhythm. Beginners are strongly encouraged to participate in Jump Start lessons taught in the summer before they begin the Fifth Grade. These are 45-minute lessons that are taught individually by Mr. Paraskevas each week day for two weeks.
An intermediate section (Strings 5.5) is available for students who already have some background as string players. Class activities reinforce good instrumental technique and help develop good habits of musicianship. Students are introduced to appropriate works of chamber music selected from the general repertory. Both classes culminate with participation in the Greenhill Sinfonia in 7/8th grades.
Finding an Instrument
Information on renting or purchasing an instrument can be obtained from the Strings Instructor, Mr. Paraskevas.
To indicate your interest in participating and for further information, please contact Mr. Paraskevas in the Greenhill Music Department at 972.628.5603. |
| | | |
|