Western Branch Orchestras

Student Resources

Student Resources

Documents, performances, opportunities, and information for Western Branch orchestra students and families.

High School

Western Branch High School

Student information and resources for the Western Branch High School orchestra program.

Orchestra Coordinator: Bradley Blair

Documents

Student Documents

Find current syllabi, forms, handbooks, trip information, and other orchestra documents.

Documents will be added as they become available.

Performances

Concert Information

Review upcoming concerts, report times, rehearsal information, attire requirements, and performance details.

View Orchestra Calendar

Opportunities

Auditions & Activities

Information about auditions, honor ensembles, festivals, special performances, and other student opportunities.

Students should check with Mr. Blair for current opportunities.

Student Success

Practice & Preparation

Students should continue building technique, musical skills, and rehearsal habits throughout the year.

Middle School

Jolliff Middle School

Student information and resources for the Jolliff Middle School orchestra program.

Orchestra Director: Leah Rosenberg

Rising 6th Grade

Getting Started at Jolliff

Sixth grade orchestra continues the skills students learned in 5th grade strings. Students should locate and keep their Essential Elements book for use in 6th grade orchestra.

  • Violin, viola, and cello continue to be offered.
  • Bass is also available beginning in middle school.
  • Students interested in changing instruments will have an opportunity to audition.
  • Auditions to change instruments will be completed on the instrument the student played in 5th grade.
  • Students who need an instrument for an audition can speak with Mrs. Rosenberg.

Mrs. Rosenberg will let students know when instruments are needed for class and will provide sizing guidance when necessary.

Instruments

Instrument Sizing & Guidelines

Mrs. Rosenberg measures students who do not currently have an instrument or who are using a fractional-size instrument to determine whether they are ready for a different size.

Students should not automatically move to the next instrument size simply because they have grown.

When a student is between instrument sizes, it is better to continue using the smaller size until they can be properly measured.

Before renting or purchasing an instrument, families should review the Jolliff Orchestra instrument guidelines and recommended music store information.

Instrument Guidelines & Music Store List

Why Instrument Quality Matters: "Violin Shaped Objects"

If you are unsure about instrument size or quality, wait until your student can be measured or consult Mrs. Rosenberg before renting or purchasing an instrument.

Orders Due October 1

Jolliff Orchestra Spirit Wear

Jolliff Orchestra spirit wear is available for all 6th grade orchestra students and interested 7th and 8th grade students. Purchasing spirit wear is optional.

Spirit wear orders are due Thursday, October 1, 2026.

The current designs are the same as last year. Families can view the available designs using the link below.

View Spirit Wear Designs

Spirit wear orders must be submitted on a paper order form with cash or check.

Orders cannot be submitted electronically and purchasing is not available through Givebacks.

View Spirit Wear Order Form

Students who need another paper order form can get one from Mrs. Rosenberg in the orchestra room. Spirit wear information is also available in the Canvas "Spirit Wear" module.

Beyond School Opportunities

Virginia Symphony Orchestra Opportunities

The Virginia Symphony Orchestra has shared several opportunities for Jolliff Orchestra students and families to attend upcoming performances.

Some performances offer discounted student tickets, and the current opportunities also include a free play-along event with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra.

Use the official flyer packet below for current performance dates, locations, ticket information, and participation details.

View Virginia Symphony Orchestra Opportunities & Flyers

These opportunities are optional and are separate from required Jolliff Orchestra school events. The flyers are also available in the Canvas "Beyond School Opportunities" module.

Growing Musicians

Preparing for High School Orchestra

Students develop the technique, confidence, musicianship, and ensemble skills needed to continue their orchestra experience at Western Branch High School.

Jolliff Orchestra

Instrument Quality Matters

A properly sized, playable instrument is important to a student's success in orchestra. Families should use the Jolliff Orchestra instrument guidelines and recommended music store information before renting or purchasing an instrument.

Some inexpensive instruments sold online may be difficult to tune, may not stay in tune, or may have poor sound quality. If you are unsure whether an instrument is appropriate, check with Mrs. Rosenberg before purchasing or renting.

View Instrument Guidelines & Music Store List

Need an Instrument or a Different Size?

Mrs. Rosenberg can help determine the appropriate instrument and size for students who need an instrument or are ready to move from a fractional-size instrument.

Students should continue using their current instrument until they have been properly measured if there is any question about sizing.

Learn About "Violin Shaped Objects"

Student & Family Information

Stay Connected

Students and families can use this page as a central location for orchestra resources and information.

The most current information regarding class requirements, rehearsals, performances, trips, auditions, and other activities will come directly from the orchestra directors.

Looking for Something?

If you cannot find the information you need, contact the appropriate orchestra director or use the website contact page.

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