Providence Academy Orchestra
2026 Summer Information
School's Out For the Summer! We are excited to offer summer lessons and information for new and returning families and students throughout the summer. I pray for a rejuvinating and wonderful summer spent with family and friends!
Interested in learning a string instrument?
What instruments are offered through the orchestra program?
The four bowed string instruments of the orchestra:
Violin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGTBnWtKAO0
Viola: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZjRbEAxb50
Cello: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUCIKJ3XLDA
Bass: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fxV36UcTe4
The easiest way to try an instrument is to meet with Mrs.Gill and try them out. She is available through appointments https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409054FADA82AABFF2-64191333-2026
There is no charge to meet. If there is not an available time that works for you, please email Mrs.Gill at ggill@providenceacademy.com
Check out this helpful guide for more instrument information:
https://thevault.musicarts.com/choosing-a-string-instrument-the-first-step-in-the-musical-journey/
How do I get an instrument for my child?
To participate in the orchestra program at Providence Academy, it is essential to have a quality instrument of the right size. A well-made instrument not only stays in tune more effectively but also produces superior sound and playability, ensuring a positive experience for your child. As a general guideline, if you can purchase both an instrument and toilet paper from the same place, it’s advisable to steer clear of that option.
Instrument Rental Options
The school offers several instruments for rent throughout the year. However, please note that we do not provide rentals for violas, cellos, or basses for our elementary students; those must be rented through Wilhite Strings or Knoxville Fine Violins. Both instrument dealers provide insurance and repair services. Although based in Knoxville, TN, they also serve Johnson City and Kingsport City Schools, as well as Providence Academy, offering convenient delivery and pickup directly to the school. They can assist you in selecting the appropriate size for your child’s needs.
For all other instrument inquiries or purchasing options: reach out to Mrs.Gill before purchasing. It is best to avoid online sources such as Facebook Marketplace or Amazon.
Instrument Rental Options that will deliver to Providence Academy
Event Information
Students and families who would like to learn more about our K-12 Orchestra Program may attend this informational meeting! We will meet in the orchestra room
Event Information
Middle and High School students joining the Intermediate/Advanced Middle School Orchestra or High School Orchestra are invited to an evening filled with fun and review as we get ready for the upcoming school year! Several teachers will be available to assist with breakout groups and sectionals. Parents, please help us make this night a success! See the SignUpGenius for ways to help with food and drinks.https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409054FADA82AABFF2-64779502-bach
RSVPs are enabled for this event.
Event Information
This is an incredible opportunity for ALL our cello students. I highly recommend all our students attend this two day workshop! This year's theme is Video Game Music. It is one of the best weekends of the year! Sign Up here
Universal Studios Trip 2027
Orchestra students in Grades 6-12 are invited to attend the Sound Design: Music of Art and Foley experience at Universal Studios in February.
Check out the website for more information. There will be a fall meeting for those who could not attend the meetings in May. See website for more details. The first trip installment is due September 1st. Thank you!
Materials Needed for New School Year
New Method Books for Orchestra This Year
Beginning Orchestra (Elementary and Middle School)
Habits of a Successful Young String Musician, Book 1
Sarah Ball, Christopher Selby, Margaret Selby, and Scott Rush
Black folder with pockets and prongs
Ten sheet protectors
Intermediate/Advanced Orchestra
Habits of a Successful Young String Musician, Book 2
Sarah Ball, Christopher Selby, Margaret Selby, and Scott Rush
Black folder with pockets and prongs
Ten sheet protectors
High School Orchestra
Habits of a Successful Middle Level String Musician
Christopher Selby and Scott Rush
Black Cranberry Music Folder (available on Amazon)
Summer Lessons!
We have several instructors available for summer lessons! Summer is busy with traveling and camps, so feel free to try multiple instructors! Some of our instructors have availability to drive to your home.
Providence Academy is closed June 22-July 3rd, so no lessons at the school will be held during these weeks.
Violin/Viola/Cello/Bass
Mrs.Gina Gill
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409054FADA82AABFF2-64191333-2026
Violin/Viola
William McNeill williammcneill08@icloud.com and 423.609.4842 (violin only)
Esther Kavanaugh ekav1721@gmail.com (unavailable June 20-27)
Josiah Skitt jlskitt@gmail.com
Cello:
Madison Potterton pottertonm@mail.etsu.com
Benjamin Garcia Argibay: email Mrs.Perego at sil_perego@hotmail.com or 989-750-5554
Bass:
Dr. Joseph Gaskins gaskinsj@mail.etsu.edu
