Just a reminder that 7th grade violins, violas, and cellos will need a mute for our winter concert! Basses don't need them. Mutes only cost a few dollars at the music store but we can provide one if cost is an issue. The next time you're out, don't forget to pick up a mute!

All 8th graders will perform on the fall/winter concert with their future high school orchestra! This is a great opportunity to meet their new orchestra teacher, see the building, and make some new friends! We are working on the music together in class. Everyone only needs to attend the Side By Side for the school they will attend next year. If you're not sure, or plan to open enroll, your best guess is fine.

Jefferson: November 7

Concert: 7:00 pm.

Rehearsal: 5:30 p.m. (Please arrive by 5:15), Pizza Social 6-6:30

Attire: PHMS Music Shirt and black pants (or nice clothes)

Lincoln: November 20

Concert: 7:00 p.m.

Rehearsal: 6:00 p.m. (meet in the LHS Orchestra Room)

Attire: PHMS Music Shirt and black pants

Roosevelt: November 30

Concert: 7:00 p.m.

Rehearsal: 4:30 p.m. Pizza social between rehearsal and concert

Attire: Nice clothes, preferably black

Washington: December 14

Concert: 7:00 p.m.

Rehearsal: 6:00 p.m. in WHS Orchestra Room. Come in the front door.

Attire: PHMS Music Shirt and black pants

Strings Attached is sounding great! Mark your calendars for our upcoming events:

• January 18-Pops Concert, 7:00 p.m., PHMS Gym
• February 17-National Anthem Performance @ Stampede, more details coming soon!
• February 22-Festival of Orchestras, time TBD, BVHS
• March 21-5th Grade Festival, 6:30 p.m., PHMS Gym
• March 26-Tour, all day @ feeder elementary schools

Middle School All State Orchestra is open to the best 6th-8th grade string players in the state. This year's event will take place at Rapid City Central High School on February 23-24. Auditions are due November 15. Any student auditioning needs to return their permission slip and $15 audition fee ASAP! We will be recording auditions during WIN time, but students are also welcome to record themselves at home or with their private teacher and send me the videos for submission. Good luck!

The Encore Program pairs volunteers from the Lincoln High School Orchestra with middle school orchestra students for lessons and mentorship at no cost. This program is ideal for students who need a little help catching up, who would like an extra challenge, or who are auditioning for Middle School All State. For more information or to register, visit the Encore Program Website. Reach out to Arthur at artao05@hotmail.com for more information.