The HSSM Junior and Senior String Orchestras
The HSSM Junior and Senior Orchestras are a supplemental program designed for students who have reached a certain level of playing ability. The Junior Orchestra is for beginner/intermediate students learning to read music and to enhance this ability. The Senior Orchestra is for intermediate/advanced students to hone listening and ensemble skills, and to have more opportunities to perform within the community.
At The HSSM, participating in the Junior and Senior String Orchestras is just one way to instill the Suzuki Principles. By learning with other students in addition to private lessons, students participating in either String Orchestra will take part in performances throughout the year, where they learn from and are motivated by each other, encouraged to support each other’s efforts, fostering an attitude of generosity and cooperation.
Joining The HSSM String Orchestras
We are currently accepting referrals from teachers for students on all string instruments and also for the flute. To join The HSSM Orchestras, all students must be referred by their instrumental teacher using the Orchestra Application – Teacher Referral form. This form helps the Music Director with placement and repertoire selection.
After the Orchestra Application – Teacher Referral form is submitted, if the student is NOT currently taking lessons at The HSSM, we will send a notice inviting them to submit an audition by video submission or be given a 10-minute slot for an in-person audition on Saturday, September 6th, between 2-4 pm.
If the student IS currently taking lessons at The HSSM, you do not need to send an audition video; your teacher will provide you with more information once you are allocated to an orchestra.
Who is Eligible for The HSSM Orchestra
Any string or flute player taking instrumental lessons can be recommended for The HSSM String Orchestras. Students not taking private lessons at The HSSM will need to submit an audition video or take an in-person audition. Their teacher can help them choose what piece to perform in their video. The requirements for the audition are listed below.
Audition Requirements
For the Junior Orchestra audition: Two polished pieces, preferably in two different keys. The pieces can be excerpts that are approximately 2 minutes in length.
For the Senior Orchestra audition: One major and one minor scale (key of their choice) at least 2 octaves, as well as a polished piece of at least a RCM grade 6 level or Suzuki Book 4.
For your audition, please state your name, which orchestra level you are auditioning for, and list the pieces and scales before you play. If you are recording please ensure your entire top half, face, and both hands are in the video. Review your video before sending and please record the video in a full take, (not sliced together multiple takes). And have fun!
How to Submit Your Video
Videos under 5MB can be emailed, alternatively, you can use YouTube or any other cloud based software (like adobe cloud or Microsoft 365) to upload privately/unlisted and send the link to our office at administration@hssm.ca before the deadline.
What to expect as a member of The HSSM String Orchestra
A schedule will be provided at the beginning of the year, but from time to time, opportunities for additional concerts arise.
Players may be rotated to give a variety of experiences to the players.
Punctuality and Attendance is expected. Please arrive ahead of time for tuning. We start at 6:30pm.
There will be recitals, performances, public concerts, and we have rehearsals every other week. Practicing regularly to be ready for the next rehearsal is expected.
Students are encouraged to support each other and learn together.
For more details about our school policies: https://hssm.ca/school-policies/
2025-2026 Term Dates
There are 4 terms in the school year. As the official schedules are completed (at the beginning of September), they will be available on our Student HUB. https://hssm.ca/student-hub/ You may see last year’s schedule as a sample until this year is solidified.
Orchestra rehearsals are every other Tuesday from 6:30pm to 7:30 pm. Senior Orchestra will begin September 23rd and Junior Orchestra on September 30th, both ending with a concert on May 31st.
Deadlines for the September 2025-2026 Season
Students Taking Private Lessons at The HSSM:
Teacher application/questionnaire deadline: Sept. 13th.
Registration Deadline (HSSM students): Sept. 22nd.
Students Taking Lessons Outside The HSSM:
Teacher application/questionnaire deadline: Aug. 25th.
Audition Video Submission Deadline: Sept. 3rd.
Auditions in-person: Sept. 6th, 2-4pm. (10 min. slot given)
Registration/Payment Deadline (for accepted students): Sept. 22nd.
Costs
Please see our registration information page https://hssm.ca/registration-information/ for current costs and info.
Contact Information
If you have any questions as a family or teacher regarding the HSSM String Orchestra, please reach out. Visit our Contact page for more information on how to get in touch. https://hssm.ca/contact-us/
Parent Involvement
Please ensure that your child arrives on time and is ready to play at the designated start time. Parents and guardians are welcome to wait in the designated area of the room, provided they remain quiet.
Eating and drinking are not allowed in the main sanctuary. Alternatively, you can wait (and eat) in the main entrance area, where additional seating is available.
For safety, young children should be walked into the school rather than dropped off at the parking lot. Important information will be shared at the beginning or end of each session, so your presence is appreciated.
Please refer to our Suzuki principles at https://hssm.ca/about/hssm-principles/, which emphasize the significance of parent involvement, repetition, listening, learning with peers, and encouragement.
If you would like to assist the Parent Committee with fundraising or events, please ask the office for more information.
