In-service Programs

The following are just a few of many possible program ideas for in-service training for your string or music specialists. There is great flexibility as to the exact structure and the presentation specifics for each program. Each program will be structured and individualized to fit the needs of the teachers and districts involved.

While these programs can be structured to fit any time constraints, they fit best in a minimum time slot of two to three hours. With more time the ideas presented can be practiced and absorbed more completely leading to a much higher likelihood of implementation within the classroom. If districts are serious about implementing change, district-wide assessments and follow-ups can also be part of a comprehensive plan to improve the string teaching in your district.

Program 1: Teaching Beginning Orchestra In Groups: This participation session will focus on specific methods which can be used with a heterogeneous group of beginning strings.   Attendees are introduced to and participate in the use of flash cards for rhythmic learning, class drills for skill building using a variety of background music, specific drills for pitch and harmonic training, and a number of practice methodologies for students. When finished with this session, attendees will be able to teach rhythm using flash cards, will have new ways to introduce and teach our musical systems, and will have a number of new resources and applicable ideas which can be used and expanded on when the teacher returns to the classroom.

Program 2:   Teaching Mid-level And High School Orchestra In Groups: This participation session is an extension of program number one. It expands the strategies for beginning level students, and moves into teaching the extended skills needed in preparing second and third year students for high school. These areas include moving into multiple key signatures, shifting, vibrato, sight reading, complex bowing and more. Beyond individual skill building in a group setting, this session will also examine rehearsal structures and activities for standard orchestra rehearsals and programming recommendations for different levels. When this session is completed teachers will have specialized rehearsal techniques for improving a group's tone quality, rhythm, bowing skills, and ensemble skills. While this is an extension of program number one it can also be taught as a stand-alone course.

Program 3:    Alignment, Recruiting, And Retention In Today’s Orchestra: This lecture session looks at the alignment of an orchestra program beginning in fourth, fifth, or sixth grade and continuing through the end of high school. Using Jerry's book, "Orchestra Triage" as its basis this lecture establishes a road map for creating a successful orchestra program, and then suggests ways to recruit and retain students in today’s environment. This session will also address competition, seating, and grading and assessment. When finished with this session attendees will have specific ideas on aligning a beginning through grade twelve orchestra program and the large concepts that drive a successful orchestra program. They will also have a specific recruiting presentation that can be adapted to their own situation, and a plan to identify and retain the students who are best served by a school orchestra program.

Orchestra Triage Inc. will structure our visit to your school system to meet your exact needs. Using a thorough approach to preparation, and our knowledge and background we can mix and match various presentations to make our visit compelling, insightful, and energizing. If your string program needs a boost Orchestra Triage can find ways to help.

In-service programs will be contracted and bid on an individualized basis.