August, 2012
Dear Parents and Students,
Welcome to an exciting year of learning at the Franklin at Brimhall campus. I am delighted that you are
interested in the orchestra program. Learning to make music on the violin, viola, cello or bass is a fun and
rewarding experience that takes patience, practice and teamwork. Everyone must contribute to the best of
their ability.
Classes meet afterschool Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, for thirty minutes each day, according to the
schedule listed below. It is very important to be on time and attend all classes. Please understand that I
expect a year long commitment to the orchestra program from each student enrolled. We will start our first
class of the year on Monday, August 20. You do not need to have your instrument for the first class. Please
try to have your instrument and materials by August 23. We will have two evening concerts this year.
There will also be other performance opportunities that I will announce as the year progresses.
Instruments and supplies are available from your local music store. Check the phone book or internet for a
music store near you. A local music store is also a good source of help and support throughout the year.
Your child should go to the store with you so that they may be fitted for the proper instrument size. You
may use the supply list below to assist you at the store.
• Instrument Outfit (includes instrument of your choice, bow and case)
• Essential Elements for Strings 2000, Book One, Hal•Leonard Publisher (6th grade, book 2 is optional)
• Concert Tunes: Book One, JLJ Publisher (6th grade, book 2 is optional)
• Folding music stand for home use
• Rosin for your bow
• Polishing cloth; (polish optional)
• Shoulder rest or a dense 1" foam sponge (violin & viola)
• Rock stop (for cello and bass)
• Pencil
• Music folder
Please contact me if you are having difficulty acquiring an instrument. I may be able to help. To enroll your
child in Orchestra, please fill out the application and return the form to school as soon as possible. I am
looking forward to a great year at Franklin at Brimhall! If you have any additional questions, please email
me, visit my website, or call the school. See you soon!
Sincerely,
Chris Donlon
Orchestra Teacher, Franklin at Brimhall
480-472-2643
cjdonlon@mpsaz.org
www.mpsaz.org/whitman/staff/cjdonlon/
Franklin at Brimhall Orchestra Schedule
Monday, (sectionals for viola, cello, bass) Tuesday (sectionals for violins) and Thursday (everyone)
3:00–3:30pm 4th grade/beginners
3:30-4:00pm 5th grade/intermediate
4:00-4:30pm 6th grade/advanced