Debut Orchestra 

Debut Orchestra, or Beginning Strings, is a starting-level class where children learn the fundamentals of playing a stringed instrument and reading music. No prior experience is required.

In class, we work on

1) Posture and form

2) Playing technique

3) Interval recognition

4) Reading notes

5) Rhythm and pulse

6) Following a director

7) Listening to other players

Private lessons are crucial for proper development of a young string player. Each participant will receive one private lesson per semester, included in their tuition. Additional private lessons can be purchased for $35 each, or a punch card of four lessons for $130. 

Recommended minimum age for Debut Orchestra is 8 (3rd grade). Younger children are encouraged to meet with the instructor prior to class to evaluate readiness. They may be encouraged to seek private lessons instead of or along with the class.  

Instruments

Families are responsible for procuring their own instruments. Once you register, you will receive detailed suggestions on how and where to do this. PLEASE DO NOT GET YOUR INSTRUMENT until you have received this information. Most importantly, do not buy an instrument on Amazon or other general merchandise seller. You will most likely have to return the instrument.

Some trusted rental companies to check out:

• Lasley Violins, U District (best quality, competitive prices)

• Henry Bischofberger, Kirkland

• Hammond-Ashley, Issaquah (most convenient)

• Sharmusic.com (best prices)

• Most general music stores like Music and Arts are cheap but have lower quality.  Can still be fine for cello or bass

Rehearsal time and location

Rehearsals are Friday afternoons from 2:30-3:30 and 4:30-5:30. On occasion we will meet at other locations, or combine the two classes together at 2:30. 1st semester runs from October 6 through January 29. 2nd semester runs from February 5 through May 27. There will be one concert in May or June, date TBD.

Cost & How to Join

Snoqualmie Strings seeks to offer an orchestra experience at a very reasonable price.  We are currently charging $260 per semester (15 classes plus one private lesson) plus a one time supply fee ($35 for violin, viola and cello, $20 for bass).  Concerts are free.  Auditions are not necessary for Debut Orchestra. To register for Fall 2023, please click: