PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

Orchestra:

Currently, there are three levels of orchestra at Bellaire High School.

Chamber Orchestra  -- This is the entry level orchestra course.  No audition is required.  Students rehearse and perform in concert.

Philharmonic Orchestra – An audition is required for this group.  This orchestra rehearses and performs in concert and at contests.  Although most students in this class are sophomores, juniors and seniors, outstanding freshmen are also accepted.

Sinfonia – Students auditioning for this group must have completed at least one year of orchestra at Bellaire HS.  This orchestra has the most demanding performance schedule and has frequent rehearsals after regular school hours. 

IB Music Theory credit is offered through the Philharmonic and Sinfonia orchestra curricula for juniors and seniors who commit to extra requirements (research papers, theory work, recitals, and exams). 

Piano:

Piano Ensemble is the newest performing group at Bellaire High School.  Limited to 24 pianists, students in the piano program will give solo recitals and perform in small ensemble groups with string players.  Qualified students will also be given the opportunity to perform with the orchestra as accompanists and soloists.  Piano students will study piano repertoire and music theory as well. Twelve electronic pianos will be available in the orchestra room for practice and rehearsal.  IB Music Theory credit will be offered through the piano curricula for juniors and seniors who commit to extra requirements (research papers, theory work, recitals, and exams).

AUDITION INFORMATION:

Orchestra and Piano Auditions will be held during the last week of May and the first week of June, as well as the two weeks prior to the start of school in August.   Contact Dr. Brown (kbrown@houstonisd.org) in order to schedule an audition time.  Audition requirements include a prepared piece, scales, and sightreading. 

 

Click here to download an order form for a DVD of the winter concert.

Calendar:

October 7                      Fall Orchestra Concert
October 18                    Region Orchestra Auditions
November 1                   All State Auditions
November 14 & 15          Region Orchestra Clinic and Concert
December 9                   Winter Orchestra and Choir Concert
January 31                    UIL Solo and Ensemble Contest
February 11 – 15            All State Orchestra Performances at TMEA in San Antonio
March 26 – 30               Performance Trip to Cozumel
April 20 & 21                 UIL Concert and Sightreading Contest
May 11                         Spring Orchestra Concert (Chamber and Philharmonic)
May 15                         Spring Orchestra Concert (Sinfonia)