Our Orchestra

The Orchestra program at Zionsville High School, lead by our Director, David Schurger, consists of three separate orchestras. They are the Concert Orchestra, Sinfonia, and Philharmonic.

Concert Orchestra

Incoming Freshman start in this orchestra and audition for placement. The musicians in this orchestra focus on fundamental/intermediate string techniques, begin/continue developing advance techniques, developing leadership skills, intermediate level music theory/comprehension, and begin developing upper level musicianship. Grade 2-4 string orchestra literature is performed as well as all Major and minor 2 octave scales and the introduction/review of 3 octave major scales and advanced bowing techniques. Some after school rehearsals may be possible for concert preparation. The Concert Orchestra will perform several times per year, including all orchestra concerts and orchestra festivals.  

Sinfonia

The musicians in this orchestra focus on intermediate to advanced techniques in music theory, leadership, and continue to develop an advanced level of musicianship. Grade 3-5 literature is performed as well as consistent accomplishment of 3 octave major scales at faster tempi and the exploration of 3 octave minor scales. Students will begin mastery of Advanced Bowing techniques. Some after school rehearsals may be possible for concert preparation. This group may be combined with winds for full orchestra as needed for performances. The Sinfonia Orchestra will perform several times per year, including all orchestra concerts and possibly some community events. Intermediate/Advanced Orchestra is open by audition to all 10-12 grade students. 

Philharmonic

The musicians in this orchestra focus on intermediate to advanced techniques in music theory, leadership, and continue to develop an advanced level of musicianship. Grade 3-5 literature is performed as well as consistent accomplishment of 3 octave major scales at faster tempi and the exploration of 3 octave minor scales. Students will begin mastery of Advanced Bowing techniques. Some after school rehearsals may be possible for concert preparation. This group may be combined with winds for full orchestra as needed for performances. The Philharmonic Orchestra will perform several times per year, including all orchestra concerts and possibly some community events. Intermediate/Advanced Orchestra is open by audition to all 10-12 grade students. 

Chamber

The musicians in this orchestra focus on advanced techniques in all aspects of music, especially musicianship and leadership. Grade 3-6 literature is performed as well as mastery or 3 octave major/minor scales and advanced bowing techniques.  This group may be combined with winds for full orchestra as needed for performances. After school rehearsals may be possible for concert preparation. The Chamber Orchestra will perform several times per year, including all orchestra concerts and community events. Advanced Academic String Orchestra is open by audition to all 10-12 grade students