Orchestra Wilson Middle School has a very active string and full orchestra program. Orchestra students begin their instrumental studies in the fifth grade, continue through sixth grade and are then eligible to participate in the Wilson orchestra program. New students from outside of the school district or students beginning earlier or later than the fifth grade may also join. All students must have a minimum of one year of study and be able to read music.
Orchestra students participate in string orchestra, full-symphonic orchestra, various small ensembles and study beginning music theory. They perform a minimum of 4 concerts per year, participate in the Illinois Grade School Music Contest annually, and are eligible to audition for and participate in Illinois Music Educators Association District Junior Orchestra. In addition, students have the opportunity to compete for ratings in the Wilson/Deere Solo and Ensemble Contest.
The orchestra classes at Wilson meet daily with the exception of those who choose to participate in choir two days a week. Orchestra is a graded class and follows the Illinois State Standards of excellence.
Events scheduled for the 2008-2009 School Year:
Saturday, October 18 TBA IMEA District Music Auditions in Sterline, IL
Thursday, October 23 Wilson Orchestra and Wilson Area 6th Grade Orchestra Concert in the Wilson Auditorium at 7 p.m.
Saturday, November 22 All Day IMEA District Music Festival at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL (selected by audition)
Friday, December 5 TBA (Tentative) Wilson Orchestra Grade School Tour and Lunch
Thursday, December 18 Wilson Orchestra and Wilson Area 5th and 6th Grade Holiday Concert in the Wilson Auditorium at 7 p.m.
Thursday, March 12 Wilson Orchestra, Band and Choir IGSMA Contest Concert in the Wilson Auditorium, 7 p.m.
Fri./Sat., March 14 TBA, Wilson Orchesstra, Band and Choir Illinois Grade School Music Contest Competition (Tentative)
Tuesday, April 21 Wilson/Deere Solo and Ensemble Contest hosted by Wilson, TBA
Tuesday, May 19 Wilson Orchestra and Area 5th and 6th Grade Spring Orchestra Concert in Wilson Auditorium, 7 p.m.
Thursday, May 22 TBA Wilson Orchestra Grade School Tour and Lunch at Happy at Happy Joe's/Rudy's Tacos in Coal Valley, IL
For more information, email Mrs. Croegaert or visit her website.
