Philharmonic and Symphony Orchestra at Munster High School. Concerts, rehearsals and life in the orchestra.
Placement is set by audition, performance in class and the instrumentation the program needs. Students are placed where they can succeed, and the audition for Symphony is open every year through eleventh grade.
Intermediate to advanced literature at grade 3 and 4 level, focused on shifting, vibrato, intonation, rhythmic accuracy and four to five part harmony. Performs at the January recruitment concert for fourth and fifth graders, and at commencement in May.
Advanced literature at grade 4, 5 and above, focused on expression, dynamics, shifting, vibrato and five part harmony. Competes at ISSMA Group I, holds after school full orchestra rehearsals from January to April, and performs at commencement.
The Indiana State School Music Association runs ISSMA that measures the ability of school music programs across the state. The Munster Symphony Orchestra competed in Group I, the highest division, and earned gold with distinction.
Fundraisers and donations pay for instrument repairs, strings and accessories, sheet music and the equipment that keeps both ensembles running. Gifts of supplies are welcome too, and the director can provide an official receipt for tax purposes.
