The Cadet Orchestra
What is the Cadet Orchestra?
The Lima Area Cadet Orchestra is an extension of the Lima Area Youth Orchestra. It is a performance ensemble for younger players, with between 1 and 4 years of playing experience under their belts, or sometimes even players who aren't completely confident in their abilities. The Cadet Orchestra is designed as a less intense learning environment for students to grow and foster their love and abilities for orchestral playing. The students will follow the LAYO rehearsal schedule, and meet one hour prior to LAYO. Our goal is to have two performances per year: Christmas and a Spring Finale. The goal of students in the Cadet Orchestra is to move to LAYO in 2-3 years time, depending on the student, of course. For other students, they just prefer to stay in the Cadet Orchestra, which is also fine.
Who should be in the Cadet Orchestra?
The Cadet Orchestra should be made up of string players with between 1 and 4 years of experience. Age isn't so much of a factor for many string players, but the age range would probably be between 8 and 14 years old, which is quite a gap! Students should be able to read and play at least a D Major scale, and should be at least somewhat proficient on all 4 strings of their instruments. Ability to play in positions, such as second or third, is not required! There is NO AUDITION required for Cadets. Cadets should have a general understanding of rehearsal etiquette as well as performance etiquette. Cadets are strongly encouraged to own their own instrument and take private lessons, however, these are not mandatory pieces for being involved.
What kind of music does the Cadet Orchestra play?
Our Cadets will be playing multiple different styles of music ranging from classical to bluegrass/fiddle to modern string orchestra music. Students here might be seeking a challenge from their school orchestra, but not with the intensity of LAYO. For those out there that might be teachers, the Cadet Orchestra will be playing music ranging from a grade .5 to a grade 1.5. Again, with so many different styles and genres that are available to us, it's hard to pin down just one, so we'll be playing many different styles of music. Mr MacBenn is a fan of the Cadets playing a song alongside LAYO, which is usually the "finishing piece" of our concerts.
When & where does the Cadet Orchestra meet?
The Cadet Orchestra will follow the LAYO schedule, which might not be every week. We meet on Sundays at Lima Senior High School in the band room. Rehearsals are from 2-2:45 PM, which is right before LAYO.
How much does this cost?
Like LAYO, the Cadet Orchestra will be free of charge to all participants. However, performers will need a LAYO shirt, which costs $30 (and, it usually doesn't change styles, so it may last multiple years!). Additionally, parents and audience members may want to buy a ticket to the concerts, which is with LAYO.
How do I get my child into the Cadet Orchestra?
Students who are interested in Cadet Orchestra will need to fill out the application form, which is located just below this. There is no audition required. It might say something about it on the application, but there is no audition for Cadets. Then, some time around mid-September, you'll be getting an email with more details, as well as how to get your music. Easy!
This sounds OK, but I have more questions?
Sure! Down below is the "Contact Us" button. Or, you could go to the "Contact" page at the top. Send us an email, we'll do our best to get back with you as soon as we can. When dealing with your child's future, there are no stupid questions. The Lima Area Youth Orchestra is committed to make sure that all students are placed in a good and positive environment where they can grow musically, be fostered intellectually, think artistically, stabilize themselves emotionally, and still have a good time doing it.