Whats with all the different orchestras?
We have lots of musicians in our orchestras here. In the fall, we split everyone into FOUR orchestras: Symphonic, Philharmonic, Camerata, and Concert. The Concert Orchestra is made up of ALL freshmen, regardless of playing ability. Symphonic, Philharmonic, and Camerata personnel are decided upon through an audition process that takes place the previous May. Symphonic is made up of the most advanced players, Philharmonic is made up of advanced players, and Camerata is made up of advancing players. In late November, EVERYONE auditions for their placement in the spring semester. The most advanced musicians are placed in the Symphonic Orchestra, the next group of musicians are placed in the Philharmonic Orchestra, and everyone else is in the Camerata Orchestra. All three orchestras compete at UIL Concert and Sightreading. Only the top two orchestras (Symphonic and Philharmonic) go on TRIP.
