PROGRAMS OF STUDY

STRINGS PROGRAM

As the collective "guitar" of the orchestra, string players will be exposed to more rhythmic ways of playing, new bowing techniques, and tools for achieving a variety of non-traditional tone colors. Students should expect to utilize the full chromatic range of their instrument on all four strings, including "low" 1st and 2nd fingers, and some shifting (to 2nd, and maybe 3rd postion for younger players, and no higher than 4th position for older players).

WOODWIND & BRASS PROGRAM

Students of woodwind and brass instruments should expect a symphony orchestra-style approach to instrumentation and balance, aka smaller sections than in a wind ensemble or symphonic band. Depending on the instrument, there could be as few as one player on a part to as many as four players on a part. While there may not be a lot of other performers around you on your specific instrument, songs are usually scored so that groups of instruments play together in unison rhythm, for solidarity.

Symphony orchestras tend to play in keys with more sharps than other ensembles, so players are encouraged to review their less-often played scales. Jazz and traditionally non-jazz instruments alike will be introduced to some jazz articulations and techniques.

PERCUSSION PROGRAM

Our approach to orchestral and auxiliary percussion instruments is to fully integrate them into the ensemble's rhythm section, playing lockstep in collaboration with the drum set and electric bass. Percussion students will not only increase their individual skills on a variety of instruments, they'll learn to work cooperatively to groove together as a unit.

Percussion parts are organized into several different stations, which students rotate through every song. Sample stations include:

Station 1: Timpani
Station 2: Glockenspiel
Station 3: Roto-toms & Congas
Station 4: Concert Bass Drum & Suspended Cymbal
Station 5: Orchestra Cymbals, Tambourine, & other small auxiliary items

As the heart, soul, and glue that keeps the orchestra together, drum set parts are typically handled by an experienced faculty coach. Advanced student drummers that demonstrate exceptional skill, time, and sensitivity may try out for drum set parts on a song-by-song basis and at their coach's discretion.

CHOIR PROGRAM

Students in our vocal program straddle the line between traditional three-part SAT choir and full fledged backing vocalists. Typically each student has their own vocal mic (when there are 10 or less choir students enrolled). With higher choir enrollment (or during the larger combined orchestra) students are amplified by area mics and adopt a more traditional choir model.

In addition to traditional choir and vocal skills, SROSI vocalists are mentored in proper mic technique and stage presence. As the orchestra's "energy ambassadors," vocal students should be prepared to generate and execute A LOT of choreography.

Lead Vocal Opportunities

During the first few rehearsals, lead vocals are covered by our adult artist-faculty members. As the week goes on and choir participants begin to feel more comfortable, they are encouraged to try out to take over lead vocals on a song. We are usually able to find at least one appropriate solo opportunity for each vocal student that wants one.

While most solo opportunities are assigned during camp (in rehearsals, through a process of experimentation and student initiative), students are welcome to preemptively inquire about solo opportunities in advance of camp. Email for more info and special audition materials.

A PERFORMANCE-BASED CAMP

SROSI is, at its core, a performance-based experience! We'll be celebrating performance in all its forms, and all students will do some "cross-training" over the course of the week.

Choreography

Each song in our finale concert is fully choreographed. Once we are getting comfortable with the music, starting about mid-week we'll begin to introduce more movement into our playing, and writing well timed dance moves into our parts.

Camp Choir

Singing is an important skills that improves overall musicianship, even for instrumentalists. One of our workshop periods is always devoted to camp choir, and, typically, a karaoke hall-of-fame 80's power ballad.

Lip Sync Battle

One of our more popular traditions is our end of week lip sync battle, where each section of the orchestra competes for our panel of faculty judges.