CHAMBER MUSIC

2 Semesters ¥ 2 Credits ¥ Grades: 12-11-10-9

Course Description:

Added in 2012-13, this new course offers students the opportunity to study the literature of chamber music.  These small string groups include trio, quartet, quintet, and small ensembles with piano.  Public performances will be expected.
 

ADVANCED ORCHESTRA
2 Semesters ¥ 2 Credits ¥ Grades: 12-11-10-9
Course Description:
This course is a study of a wide variety of both classical and popular music for full and string orchestra. Emphasis is placed on advanced skill development. Orchestra personnel are chosen by audition and approval of director. Commitment to the Symphonic Orchestra also includes Monday Night Rehearsals.
 

PRE-ADVANCED ORCHESTRA

2 Semesters ¥ 2 Credits ¥ Grades: 12-11-10-9

Course Description:

This group prepares a challenging variety of string orchestra music. A few extra performances are in the schedule. Students are encouraged to participate in ISSMA contest and take private lessons.
 

INTERMEDIATE ORCHESTRA

2 Semesters ¥ 2 Credits ¥ Grades: 12-11-10-9

Course Description:

This ensemble studies a wide variety of string literature. Emphasis is placed on intermediate skill development. Students are encouraged to participate in ISSMA contest and take private lessons.

Associated Activities

ISSMA Solo and Ensemble Contest

All students in orchestra are encouraged to participate in contest. A solo or ensemble must be prepared and entered.

ISSMA Chamber Night

Designed to aid in preparation for contest, participants perform in an evening of instrumental solos and ensembles.

Kingsmen String Ensemble

Our ambassadors to the community, the Kingsmen String Ensemble and the Kingsmen String Quartet are members that take extra time to rehearse and perform in the community.

Indiana All-State Orchestra

Top players are auditioned from the entire state. This is a wonderful opportunity to perform more difficult repertoire with top students. Accomplished students are encouraged to audition for this honor.

Penn High School Jazz Band

Our Band program includes 3 jazz bands and provides opportunities for bass players, keyboard players, and other instruments.

The Penn Spring Musical

Each spring, the Penn Fine Arts Department produces a musical. A pit orchestra rehearses outside of school time and accompanies the production. Pit players are chosen from the Advanced Orchestra class. It is an exciting time and offers many rewarding experiences.
 

Penn Orchestra Tours

The Penn Orchestra has taken Tours to New York and Florida. Each tour is generally planned for Spring break and includes full orchestra members. The tour is open to all Orchestra members and many fund raising opportunities are available.  DUE TO THE LOSS OF THE DIVISION SECRETARY, THE SPRING TOUR OF 2014 IS CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER CHANGES.

Private Lessons

Area teachers are available. Please contact Mr. Oke for names. For students interested in joining Advanced orchestra class or pit orchestra, lessons are highly recommended.