Orchestra (CP) is a sequential two-semester course that teaches students musical literacy mainly through the processes of analyzing, evaluating, practicing and performing orchestral music. Students will also use skills developed in this class to understand the many influences that helped to develop the vast orchestral repertoire that we have access to today. Using musical performance as the primary, but not the only medium, students will analyze the creative process from start to finish. This will include music theory, proper playing technique, cultural influence on a composer, interpreting a piece stylistically, and influences that technology has had on orchestral music.

The units of the course are not necessarily sequential and are best addressed on an ongoing basis. Many experiences can address multiple units at the same time and will often benefit from doing so as there is much overlap within the content of this course.