Elementary Strings
at Winchester Public Schools
Students in grades 3-5 can select to take weekly group lessons at each of the elementary schools in Winchester
All strings students may participate in either the All Star Orchestra or the Beginning Orchestra.
Participation is optional, but highly encouraged!
The orchestras rehearse on Wednesdays after school at McCall Middle School in the Band Room.
If your child would like to participate, please fill out the form here, and download the schedules below.
Typically, we have an orchestra after school on Wednesdays.
This year, orchestra will take place on Tuesday or Friday mornings, as part of the regular hybrid schedule.
8:15-9:00 am on Tuesday or Friday will be a large group class, comprised of all the stringed instruments.
This is for all Returning students. Beginners may join us when they are ready.
All beginning students should download, print, and have with them the following two packets.
1. Note Reading Packets:
2, Beginner Packets
How to choose the correct size instrument?
Here are some basic guidelines on how to select the appropriate size instrument to rent:
The guidelines presented in this video are not exact, and it is possible that I might email or call home to ask you to trade his/her instrument in for a different size.
There are many factors involved in selecting the correct size, and no single measurement can give the exact size.
The length of a student's forearms and upper arms, and the ratio of forearm to upper arm length is a big factor, as is the ability to find a relaxed posture while holding the instrument.
For the cello, the height of a students torso can influence the decision as well as arm length.
Any of the local rental shops can help you determine the appropriate size. If they are apprehensive, or do not regularly stock your child's chosen instrument, please consider renting from a shop that specializes in stringed instruments, such as Johnson Strings or Spencer Brook Strings.
I will recheck the size of instruments in January and in June, and send home any recommendations on changing sizes.
