Orchestra (Strings)

String Orchestra Magnet Program

Description

The String Orchestra Magnet Program at David A. Boody Middle School is designed to help students develop their musical talents through the study of string instruments, including violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Whether students have prior experience or are complete beginners, this program is designed to support their growth as musicians through a hands-on approach to learning and performing.

In this 3-year sequential program, students will have the opportunity to perform in multiple school concerts each year, participate in school-wide events, and receive after-school support to prepare for specialized high school applications. Each student is loaned an instrument to practice at home, ensuring they can hone their skills outside of class.

Advanced students will have the chance to expand their musical experience by participating in other orchestras, chamber music groups, and extracurricular orchestra festivals. This program provides a comprehensive music education, fostering a deep appreciation for string music while also preparing students for their future musical endeavors.

Grade 6: Beginner Orchestra

Instrument Focus: Students choose from violin, viola, cello, or double bass and begin learning the basics of their instrument.
Repertoire: Students start with the New Directions Method Book 1 and progress through Level 1-2 NYSSMA repertoire.
Performance: Students will perform at the June Festival of the Arts Concert.
Key Skills: Focus on learning how to read music, develop proper technique, and work as an ensemble.

Grade 7: Junior Orchestra

Repertoire: Students continue to develop their skills, learning Level 2-3 NYSSMA repertoire.
Performance: Students will perform at the June Festival of the Arts Concert and the Spring Concert.
Key Skills: Strengthening technique and understanding of music theory, with a focus on improving individual playing and ensemble performance.

Grade 8: Senior Orchestra

Repertoire: Students tackle more advanced pieces with Level 3-4 NYSSMA repertoire.
High School Preparation: Focus on preparing students for high school-level orchestra auditions and music programs.
Performance: Students will perform at the Spring Concert and participate in citywide festivals such as the MEANYC Middle School Orchestra Festival and the Brooklyn Orchestra Festival.
Key Skills: Advanced playing technique, sight-reading, and performance preparation, ensuring students are ready for high school-level orchestral programs.

Partnerships and Student Events

Partnerships: The program is affiliated with Salute to Music Citywide Orchestra, Music Educators Association of NYC, and the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA).
Student Events: Students participate in exciting school-wide events such as STEAM Night and STOMP Career Day, where they can showcase their talents and engage with the broader school community.

Performances

Spring Concert
Festival of the Arts
MEANYC Middle School Orchestra Festival
Brooklyn Orchestra Festival

The String Orchestra Magnet Program provides an enriching environment where students can build their musical talents, perform in various settings, and prepare for future opportunities in music. Through hard work, teamwork, and dedication, students will develop a deep connection to their instrument and music as a whole, helping them become well-rounded musicians and performers.

Music Shows:

District 21 Testing

🎻 Applying to the I.S. 228 Orchestra (Strings) Magnet

Students interested in joining the Strings Magnet at David A. Boody (I.S. 228) will audition by submitting two short videos showcasing their musical abilities.

We welcome the following instruments for auditions:
Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Guitar, and Piano

📹 What You’ll Need to Submit:

You must submit TWO separate videos:

🎼 Video 1: Scale Performance

Show off your technique and sound with one scale of your choice.

Before playing, say:

Your full name
Your current school
Your student ID number (OSIS)
Why you want to be in the Strings Magnet at Mark Twain
The name of the scale you're going to play

Tips:

Choose any scale that highlights your ability.
Play at a speed that’s comfortable and shows control.
Make sure we can clearly see your hands and posture.

File Name Example: JohnAdams-CScale.mp4

🎶 Video 2: Solo Performance

Perform a short solo piece that demonstrates your musicality.

Before playing, say:

Your full name
Your current school
Your student ID number (OSIS)
The name of your piece and the composer

Tips:

Pick a piece you feel confident performing.
It can be a shortened version of a longer piece (5 minutes max).
Perform it without background music or accompaniment.
Make sure your whole body and both hands are clearly visible.

File Name Example: JohnAdams-Sonatina.mp4

By submitting both videos, you’re giving us a full picture of your musical ability and passion for joining our Strings program. We look forward to seeing your talent!