The LJTMS Orchestra is for students who play the violin, viola, cello or bass. Students will learn the musical content, skills, and performance etiquette commensurate with their grade and experience level. Instruction and pacing will be in accordance with and guided by the National and Kentucky Core Arts Standards. Students will have several concert performance opportunities throughout the year, All County Orchestra, KMEA Solo & Ensemble Festival, and KMEA Large Ensemble Assessment in addition to field trips and guest artist visits. 

6th Grade Orchestra - This class is for students with little to no experience playing a string instrument. Musical experience is not a requirement, and students do not need to know how to read music to join Orchestra. The only requirement is the sincere desire to learn how to properly play a musical instrument and perform in Orchestra. Instruction will include instrument assembly, care, safety, and maintenance, tone production, music note reading and composition, aural skills, and working together as a team or ensemble. This class will prepare students for 7th grade Orchestra.  

7th Grade Orchestra - Students will continue to develop their instrumental technique individually and as part of the ensemble. The students’ musical skills will develop through scale study and progressing Orchestra literature. Students may join as beginners in 7th grade with teacher permission. This class will prepare students for 8th grade Orchestra.

8th Grade Orchestra - Students will continue to develop their musical skills to include all major and minor scales, shifting and position work, and Orchestra literature of at least grade III level. By the end of the year, students will be prepared for high school orchestra.