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Q. When will students have the opportunity to sign up for strings?
A. A recruiting assembly will be held within the first two weeks of school
in September. The presentation will include demonstrations of the instruments
and tell students about our strings program, which is one of the largest
in Fairfax County. Initial strings forms will be passed out which will
give your child the opportunity to enroll. In addition, there will be
a parent information night. Details will be included on these forms.
Q. How do you decide which instrument a child should play?
A. Students may start lessons on Violin, Viola, Cello or Bass in grades
4, 5, or 6. The orchestra program continues through grade 1 2. Some of
the very best high school orchestras in the nation are right here in Fairfax
County! The viola is similar to the violin in appearance; however, the
sound it produces is lower. If your child is undecided between the violin
and the viola, choose the viola. Violists will often have more opportunities
in the future, since they are in greater demand. All of these instruments
come in student sizes. Your child will need to be measured by a music
store or Mrs. Trachtenberg for the proper size instrument. Cellos and
basses are larger to carry around. Many students transport them on "luggage
carriers." PLEASE NOTE: Basses are too large to go on a school
bus.
Q. What kind of instruction will the students receive?
A. Group lessons are scheduled one time per week for 45 minutes during
the school day. What this usually means is that if 16 students are enrolled
from a classroom, they will come to strings at the same time once a week.
Mrs. Trachtenberg works closely will the staff to insure that things run
smoothly and that students are able to handle coming to lessons.
Q. How do I get an instrument?
A. Most students will rent a new or used instrument from a local music
store (often with an option to buy). Teachers are not permitted to suggest
which stores to shop at however, Mrs. Trachtenberg can give you guidance
in finding small basses. Renting is the best way to go since your child
may grow during the school year and may need to "trade up" a
size. Also, you want to make sure he/she likes the instrument before making
a purchase. I have heard several bad stories about purchasing instruments
over the internet and it is not recommended. There are a few instruments
available for rent at the school, but mostly larger ones-- cellos and
basses.
Q. The Rental Assistance Program
A. The Fairfax County Music Curriculum Specialist has violas and violins
available for students in financial need (family is eligible for the free/reduced
lunch program at school). Please let me know if you need the forms for
this rental assistance program.
Q. Do I need a music stand?
A. Music stands are highly recommended for home practice. A wire collapsible
one works great. Students should stand or sit tall with the music directly
in front of them when they practice. Sending down to read music on a chair
or a bed creates bad posture and neck strain. Stands will not be needed
at school until concert rehearsals and performances.
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Frequently Asked Questions 
Any
question? Send e-mail to Mrs. Trachtenberg, Stephanie A. at 