Orchestra

Mr. Zachary Naughright is honored to offer orchestra at Mendham Township to students from grades 4-8. At the Elementary School, the 4th grade, Tiger Orchestra, focuses on technique and basic note reading, while performing challenging and fun selections twice a year. For each of the 4th grade students, one pull-out rotating lesson, and one early morning rehearsal occur per week. 

At the MTMS, there are two, open enrollment orchestras and an audition only orchestra. Every student at the middle school has one lesson per week, on a rotating schedule. Learn more about each of the ensembles below:

Our Prelude Orchestra is for fifth graders focused on learning concert etiquette, continued technique in the left and right hand (Intonation, proper hand shape, preparation for vibrato, bow articulation, bow speed, bow placement, bow slurs, etc.). The Prelude Orchestra has rehearsal during 6th period on Wednesday and one early morning rehearsal per week. They perform multiple times per year.

The Symphonic Orchestra is the open-enrollment orchestra for 6th - 8th graders. In this orchestra, students can expect to learn music history, eras of music ranging from Baroque to Contemporary. These students have two early morning orchestra rehearsals, typically Monday and Wednesday. Symphonic Orchestra has performed and earned a SILVER rating at NJSMA Regions I Orchestra Festival two years in a row. Also, performing at Dorney Park earning 1st place and Superior and Excellent ratings.

The highest-level auditioned orchestral ensemble, Chamber Ensemble, meets weekly on Monday during 9th period. Chamber Ensemble is an environment where students can expect to have more performance opportunities, educational / performance based field trips (ie. trips to NJ Symphony in Newark and MAYO in Morristown). Students who are given the opportunity to play in this ensemble are held at the highest level of independence and responsibility in order to create outstanding music.

While many of our students are actively involved in sports, scouts, and have rigorous academic expectations, we work toward and see excellence in their performance.