Orchestra
Orchestra at Lexington Latin School is a vibrant and growing part of our school community. The first orchestra ensemble at LLS began in the 2021-2022 school year with a group of students in 4th-6th grade. We have added a new group of students every year and now one-fifth of the entire student population participates in orchestra.
The Orchestra Program at LLS
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The LLS Orchestra is an incredible group of musicians. Our students have successfully auditioned into the KY All-State Orchestra and KMEA Region 7 Orchestra. Many of our students have received Distinguished Ratings at the Solo & Ensemble and local music festivals. Recently, our Upper School Orchestra was selected to be a showcase orchestra performance at the KY Music Educators Conference.
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The LLS orchestra program is offered to students in 4th -12th grade.
LLS Students are invited to join the beginner orchestra when they enter the 4th grade.Students who wish to join the orchestra in grades 5-12 may join, but should contact our director to discuss options.
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Our program meets on Monday afternoons and Thursdays during the school day.
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Students can choose to play the violin, viola, cello, or string bass.
They will work on all the fundamentals of learning these instruments and prior experience is not necessary when they begin in 4th grade.
Shawna Howard
LLS Orchestra Director
Katy Van Fleet
LLS Orchestra Assistant Director
Lexington Latin School Orchestra By Level
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The 4th grade orchestra is a beginner ensemble. Students can choose to play the violin, viola, cello, or string bass. We will work on all the fundamentals of learning these instruments and prior experience is not necessary. Students will work to play basic songs and produce a good tone on their instrument. Students will also learn all the basics of music reading and should read their music fluently by the end of the year. By the end of the 4th grade year, students will be able to perform orchestra selections with five parts! Students in 4th grade orchestra participate in orchestra concerts and a fun music festival each Spring.
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Our 5th grade orchestra consists mostly of students who have completed one full year of orchestra. In this ensemble, students work to refine their intonation, tone quality, and music reading skills. Students in this ensemble have the opportunity to participate in Solo & Ensemble, a music festival, orchestra concerts, and school ceremonies.
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Our 6th grade orchestra consists mostly of students who are in their third year of orchestra. Students begin playing more complex music this year with more independent musical parts. Students learn how to play in more difficult keys, perform difficult rhythms, and begin to shift on their instrument. Students in this ensemble have the opportunity to participate in KMEA Honors Orchestra, Solo & Ensemble, a music festival, orchestra concerts, and school ceremonies.
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The Upper School Orchestra is a group of strong musicians! These students are performing beautiful music and are beginning to work on advanced techniques like shifting and vibrato. Students in this ensemble have the opportunity to participate in KY All-State Orchestra, KMEA Honors Orchestra, Solo & Ensemble, music festivals, orchestra concerts, school ceremonies, and overnight trips. As the LLS Orchestra program continues to grow, the Upper School class structure will continue to evolve to fit the needs of our orchestra students.
Learn More
At Lexington Latin School, our orchestra program is designed to grow with our students, building their skills and confidence each year. From the very first notes in 4th grade to advanced performances in Upper School, students develop their musicianship through structured ensembles, exciting performance opportunities, and engaging musical experiences.
Each level builds upon the last, helping students refine their technique, deepen their understanding of music, and enjoy the camaraderie of making music together. Below is an overview of each orchestra level and what students can expect at every stage of their journey.
Pictured is the 2024-25 sixth grade orchestra, one of our grade level orchestra classes.
