About the Strings & Orchestra Program

The Strings & Orchestra Program provides students the opportunity to perform orchestral repertoire of all time periods. All string students, including harpists, are placed in one of three orchestras. Wind and percussion students audition for chairs. The three orchestras are, at the top level the Symphony Orchestra, the Concert Orchestra, and the middle school String Orchestra.

The Symphony and Concert Orchestras are composed primarily of students in grades 9 through 12. However, advanced string and wind players in grades 7 and 8 can audition for one of those orchestras. String students also participate in regular sectionals and masterclasses. The Symphony Orchestra has won national awards for its innovative programming and regularly receives praise for its talent and level of performance.

Student Experience

Students will experience a wide range of music education to further their development as string players and creative musicians. The program’s college-preparatory curriculum is designed for its students to receive training in strings and take a wide variety of music courses, including composition, music theory, and music appreciation. Aside from the orchestral experience, students will have many performance opportunities in master classes, sectionals, and chamber music. The students are exposed to renowned guest artists, university faculty, and industry leaders who visit the school’s campus to share their expertise and creativity through master classes, lectures, presentations, and hands-on training. In addition, students in the Symphony Orchestra have the opportunity to participate in an international tour.

  • “Orange County School of the Arts provided me with invaluable and memorable educational experiences during such an important time of artistic and intellectual exploration. I felt ready to pursue my higher education and begin my career in the Juilliard community, where I currently continue my involvement as a faculty member.”
    Sean Lee - Class of 2005

Preparing Students for the Future

After completing their education, Strings & Orchestra Program students will be more versatile musicians and prepared to successfully enter a university or arts conservatory program of their choice. Graduates have frequently been exempt from college courses because of their work in the Instrumental Music Conservatory’s Strings & Orchestra Program.

To learn more about the Strings & Orchestra Program curriculum, click here.