Instrumental Music

Instrumental Music

All students at Rockbridge Academy in grades K-6 study music as part of the established curriculum.  This study comprises music history and theory, as well as singing and reading music. In addition, the following instrumental opportunities are available.

Suzuki Strings

The SUZUKI STRINGS Program is for students in grades K-6.

This program offers instruction in violin and cello for beginning players.  The program is designed to introduce young students to the art of string playing, and no previous experience is necessary. Active parental participation and involvement is strongly encouraged. Our instructors are Suzuki trained and certified.

Suzuki VIOLIN and CELLO classes will meet twice a week for 30 minutes before school.

Click here for Suzuki Registration

Suzuki Strings Program FAQ

Scots Orchestra

The SCOTS Orchestra is our introductory string orchestra for students at a minimum level of Etude in Suzuki Book 1, through the level of Suzuki Book 3 and 4, or comparable.

The Scots is designed to introduce students to orchestral playing and, through appropriate repertoire, to prepare them for their future orchestral and ensemble endeavors. The Scots is focused on ensemble playing and preparation for performances and is not a substitute for individual instruction. Participation and placement in the Scots Orchestra is by audition with the orchestra instructors at the beginning of the school year.

Homeschoolers are welcome to participate. 

The Scots Orchestra meets before school on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:15-8:10 AM. Expected arrival time is 7:10 AM for tuning and prep.

Scots Audition Information

All Scots will NOT have to re-audition for the 2026-2027 orchestra season. Only those who are new to the orchestra, those who want to try for Violin I, or those who want to switch from Scots to Evergreen will need to audition in September. See below for specific audition packets. Practice and prepare for your specific audition through the summer. We look forward to seeing you in September!

I'm new to Scots and I'd like to audition!

I was in Scots Violin II last year and I'd like to switch to Violin I.

I was in Scots last year and I'd like to audition for Evergreen: Violin II / Viola / Cello.

Click here for Orchestras Registration

Evergreen Orchestra

The EVERGREEN Orchestra is our advanced string orchestra for students playing at a minimum level of Suzuki book 4. The group will prepare a broad range of repertoire and develop collaborative playing skills and musicianship.  The Evergreen is focused on ensemble playing and preparation for performances and is not a substitute for individual instruction.  Participation and placement in the Evergreen Orchestra is by audition with the orchestra instructors at the beginning of the school year.

Homeschoolers are welcome to participate.

All students must first register in the Rockbridge Academy Orchestras (RAO) class in order to receive an audition time.

The Evergreen Orchestra meets Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:15-8:10 AM. Expected arrival time is 7:10 AM for tuning and prep.

Concert attire is required for this elective.

Evergreen Audition Information

Violin II Audition Requirements (for new students joining the orchestra)
Violin I Audition Requirements (for students in Violin II wishing to move up)
Viola Audition Requirements (for new students joining the orchestra)
Cello II Audition Requirements (for new students joining the orchestra)
Cello I Audition Requirements (for students in Cello II wishing to move up)

Click here for Orchestras Registration

Chamber Music

Interested and motivated students in the EVERGREEN orchestra may participate in smaller chamber music groups. These ensembles meet seasonally during conference time.  Each group receives coaching from the orchestra directors. Students have opportunities to perform at special school events, and have the option to participate in the Anne Arundel County Solo and Ensemble Festival for adjudication and qualification for the State festival.