Suzuki Strings & Secondary Orchestra
An HEB ISD Schools of Choice Program
Suzuki Strings & Secondary Orchestra are special opportunities offered to students through HEB ISD's Schools of Choice program. In selected elementary schools, students have the opportunity to play the violin, viola, cello, and string bass using the internationally renowned Suzuki instructional approach. From there, students can continue their study in award-winning orchestral programs at the junior high and high school levels.
Suzuki Strings is currently offered at the following elementary schools: Bellaire, Hurst Hills, Lakewood, Shady Brook, North Euless, River Trails, South Euless, Spring Garden, Viridian, and Wilshire. Orchestra programs are currently offered at Central Junior High and L.D. Bell High School.
For more information about applying for Suzuki Strings & Secondary Orchestra, visit the HEB ISD Transfers webpage...
About the Suzuki Method
Dr. Shinichi Suzuki created the Suzuki Method of teaching students to play string instruments. Research shows that playing a string instrument can positively affect students’ abilities in core subjects, such as math, science and reading.
The Suzuki Method develops the whole child and provides lifelong skills, such as listening, observation, memorization, and concentration. Students learn discipline and focus, and they gain self-confidence, all of which can be applied throughout life.
Suzuki Strings in HEB ISD
HEB ISD students in Suzuki Strings take one private lesson each week during school and attend one group session each week after school. A parent must accompany the student at the private lesson and is encouraged to attend the group session after school. Parents will supply the instrument, music books, and other various supplies needed for appropriate instruction.
There are many opportunities for performances, including school recitals, PTA meetings, and the annual Suzuki Strings Festival. The K-6 Suzuki Strings program provides the foundation for the district’s secondary orchestra program, cultivating the full intellectual and personal potential of each student. Students who demonstrate adequate proficiency may participate in the Reading Orchestra, the Fine Tuners and the Elementary Honor Orchestra. Parents say they are giving their child a wonderful opportunity only available in a few Texas schools, which compels HEB ISD to be Different by Design.
Central Junior High Orchestra
Students have several options for participation in the secondary Orchestra program in grades 7 through 12. Students progressing from Suzuki Strings to Orchestra in seventh grade must transfer to Central Junior High School to join the Orchestra program.
Students who have prior strings-playing experience outside of HEB ISD's Suzuki Strings may audition for the Orchestra at Central. They will then be placed in an ensemble that best fits their performance level. Beginning level string instrument classes are offered in seventh grade on violin, viola, cello, and string bass.
L.D. Bell High School Orchestra
The orchestral program continues at L.D. Bell High School. Students must progress through the Orchestra program at Central Junior High School and demonstrate successful performance skills on their chosen string instrument. High school students who have prior string playing experience outside of the HEB ISD Orchestra program may audition for the Orchestra at Bell and will be placed in an ensemble that best fits their performance level.
Both the junior high and high school orchestras offer a wide variety of performance opportunities. Individual performance in Solo & Ensemble contest and ensemble performance at concerts and UIL assessments are just a few examples of performance opportunities.
What is Schools of Choice?
HEB ISD's Schools of Choice programs go beyond the "core" curriculum. These limited enrollment programs focus on specific, special topics. Students can grow their artistic talents, explore cutting-edge advancements, and develop skills to compete with a global workforce.
Each program has its own set of requirements and its own academic path to completion, giving families the freedom to decide which path is right for their child.