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We're proud that you have already dedicated 3 years to orchestra. We look forward to sharing in your journey over the next 4!
High School Orchestra includes a lot of exciting events, but if you're worried about the size of the program, it's generally no bigger than the large middle school programs.
side by side with 8th graders
JOIN THE PACK NEWSLETTER FOR INCOMING Students (submit auditions inside)
Audition packets for fall 2025:
What's with those left hands?
In High School Orchestra, we can BeReal.
Real correct technique & intonation; the goal is to fix bad habits, look right & sound expensive.
Real opportunities to perform and receive feedback (in class celebrations of knowledge, UIL Solo & Ensemble, UIL Concert & Sightreading)
Real rigor. Our classes play music that they cannot sight read. It's a lot of fun to see your class go from misunderstanding what's on the page, to top tier performances of famous pieces.
Real expectations. While we don't usually do practice journals, we know that the level of our music is dependent on whether or not we practice.
Real initiative. Our students run their own concerts logistically, write program notes and learn the orchestra stage set up.
Your Future
Planning ahead is important in high school. To the right is an example of how to fit in orchestra all four years even with AP classes. We've had orchestra kids who are also student athletes in swimming, cross country, basketball and even varsity football. Colleges want to see commitment and expertise, and our program has sent students who continued orchestra all 4 years of high school off to the likes of Princeton, Penn State, Duke, John Hopkins, Carnegie Mellon, UT Austin and more!
-College Academy? Orchestra can still work in your schedule all 4 years. Ask the directors for more details.
Auditions
Auditions
Everyone is welcome in orchestra! Auditions are a part of musical life and are used to determine in which class you will find the most success. We believe in growing where we're planted. Unlike in middle school where most students visit all of the available class levels, high school has 5 orchestra classes, and you're only in high school for 4 years. It's totally normal to graduate having been a member of only some of the offered classes.
Audition material (scale & etude) is released in the spring
due end of April
recorded video format
While not part of our school audition, anyone interested in the Chamber class should be looking at the region audition material over the summer; taking that audition is a expectation in that class
Moving in from out of state or a different district?
Moving in from out of state or a different district?
We're so excited to welcome you to BHS & Texas!
Contact Ms. Lopes early! and include your musical background
Inquire about audition material and be prepared to submit it over the summer
Full size instruments
Full size instruments
What is standard? Heading into high school, assuming you grew, it's typical to move up to a full size. If you were already on a full size, it's time to change strings (our recommendations here).
Many families will be finishing their rental contracts and looking to fully purchase a full size instrument instead of renting in high school. For more info on when and how to upgrade, check out our INSTRUMENT BUYING GUIDE.
Note that 3/4 is the full adult size for bass &
Full size violas start at 15 inches and have a range up to 17 inches
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