Orchestra - Long Middle

The Dan F. Long Middle School Orchestra is an established orchestra program with a long history of excellence dating back to the 1980s. Students consistently earn distinctions at UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest, Solo and Ensemble Contest, and the TMEA All-Region Orchestras. Long Orchestra musicians are exceptional students in all areas at Long Middle School. They display exemplary behavior and commitment to academics, often earning campus distinctions such as Student of the Month and End of Year Academic Awards. Our program's high expectations combined with consistent support and guidance allow Long Orchestra students to achieve excellence, build lifelong skills, and deepen their love for music.

Pathways

Beginner Orchestra (6^th, 7^th, 8^th)

Beginner Orchestra is made up of 1st year orchestra students. In this class, students begin learning one of four stringed instruments: violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students learn proper posture and technique, music theory, and how to read notes and rhythms. Classes are organized by instrument, allowing focused instruction and greater individual attention between student and instructor. Our Beginner Orchestra participates in several concerts and contests throughout the year, including Solo and Ensemble Contest and a music festival in the spring.

Concert Orchestra (7^th, 8^th)

Concert Orchestra is our Sub Non-Varsity Orchestra consisting of 7th and 8th graders with one to two years of experience on their instrument. In this orchestra, students build onto their musical foundation by reinforcing fundamental technique and learning additional rhythms and musical concepts. Concert Orchestra participates in concerts and contests throughout the year, including Solo and Ensemble Competition in April and a music festival in the spring.

Philharmonic Orchestra (7^th, 8^th)

Philharmonic Orchestra is our competitive Non-Varsity Orchestra consisting of 7th and 8th graders with one to two years of experience on their instrument. In this orchestra, students continue their musical development by learning more complex techniques, rhythms, and musical concepts. Philharmonic Orchestra participates in concerts and contests throughout the year including UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest in March, Solo and Ensemble Competition in April, and a music festival in May. Students may also choose to participate in the All-Region audition process in the fall to further their musical development.

Symphonic Orchestra (7^th, 8^th)

Symphonic Orchestra is our competitive Varsity Orchestra comprised of 7th and 8th graders with at least one to two years of experience on their instrument. In this orchestra, students further their musical development by learning advanced instrumental techniques and stretching their abilities through increasingly difficult pieces. Symphonic Orchestra participates in several concerts and contests throughout the year, including the All-Region audition process in the fall, UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Competition in March, Solo and Ensemble Competition in April, and a music festival in May. As an elite performing group, Symphonic Orchestra represents Dan F. Long Middle School and enjoys several opportunities to perform within the community during the school year. Symphonic Orchestra members also audition for All-Region Orchestra in the fall each year.

Student Organizations

Jazz Band (7th, 8th)

The Dan F. Long Middle School Jazz Band is a performing group consisting of 7^th and 8^th grade band and orchestra students. Jazz Band rehearses once a week after school and goes on many field trips during the school year, including performances at community centers and a trip to the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival.

Mariachi Orchestra (7^th, 8^th)

The Dan F. Long Middle School Mariachi Orchestra is a performing group consisting of 7^th and 8^th grade orchestra, band, and choir students. Mariachi Orchestra rehearses after school and enjoys many performance opportunities during the school year, including Hispanic Heritage Night and other community events.

Other Organizations (6^th, 7^th, 8^th)

A great number of Long Orchestra students are involved in other activities and clubs on campus, such as Athletics, National Junior Honor Society, and other Fine Arts organizations. Teachers and administrators at Long are committed to every student receiving a well-rounded educational experience by participating in multiple programs.

AWARDS

Teacher information

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