Benefits of Orchestra

Orchestra is a yearlong course that helps students grow musically, socially, and individually. It builds essential skills like discipline, teamwork, leadership, and confidence — all while giving students a creative outlet. Committing to a full year is important because orchestra relies on steady progress and consistent participation. Each student plays a vital role in the ensemble’s success, and staying through the entire year — including major performances like LGPE — leads to stronger musicianship, deeper connections, and a more meaningful experience overall.

Why it’s Important to Stay in Orchestra Throughout Your High School Career

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QUALITY > QUANTITY

Remember: Orchestra doesn’t compete with your future — it helps prepare you for it.

#1: COLLEGE ADMISSIONS & SCOLARSHIPS

“I’m worried orchestra will keep me from taking AP classes, Dual Enrollment, or Career Pathways.”

Did you know?

Selective colleges look for more than high GPAs and long lists of extracurricular activities. They value students who challenge themselves academically while demonstrating commitment, leadership, teamwork, and meaningful involvement over time.

Students who stay in orchestra often build these qualities naturally through:

  • Leadership opportunities

  • Community Service

  • Honor Ensembles

  • Collaboration and Teamwork

  • Time Management

A student who is deeply involved in orchestra for four years (or more) while taking rigorous coursework often has a stronger college application than a student who joins many clubs without long-term commitment.

#2: TEST SCORES & LITERACY

Studies show that students in band, choir, and orchestra often score higher on standardized tests, perform better in their core classes, and have better reading and literacy skills.

Read this Article to Learn More!
Diagram titled 'How Music Impacts Your Brain' showing different effects music has on the brain, including altering breathing and heart rate, releasing dopamine, stimulating brain waves, improving alertness, reducing depression and anxiety, boosting creativity, reducing perception of pain, increasing mobility, and promoting positive thoughts and happiness.

#3: REWIRING THE BRAIN

Music also strengthens memory, focus, and emotional health — it literally rewires the brain to help in all my other classes.

#4: MOTIVATION

“Being part of music makes me more connected to school and more motivated overall. I really love music, and I know it’s going to make my whole year better!”

Music is an incredible form of expression and creativity, and being in orchestra gives students the opportunity to explore both. It not only allows students to grow as musicians, but also provides a meaningful outlet to express themselves, manage stress, and feel a strong sense of community within school.

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