Orchestra Newsletter – 08-23-2017

There is a lot of important information below!

Potluck Dinner Thank You’s

Special thanks to the AHSOA Board and the student leadership team for all of their work organizing, setting up, and cleaning up for our Annual Potluck Dinner. There were approximately 250 RSVPs which was the most we have had!  It was nice speaking with you and getting to know some of you as well.

“Bach to School” Social Wrap-Up

Our first annual “Bach to School” social during the first week of school was a success!  The students had a great time getting to know each other and free pizza and dessert isn’t a bad thing either!

Special thanks to Jason Juang and Kieren Holmquist for taking photos of the event.  You can see the photos here.

Uniforms

All students must wear the proper uniform.

• Girls: Orchestra dress, black socks or hose, black dress shoes.
• Boys: Black Tuxedo, white shirt, black bow tie and cummerbund, black socks, black dress shoes.

Boys Uniform

If you are new to the program, you were measured by Tuxedo Wearhouse and need to register  for your tuxedo on their website. The cost is $117.17 and the uniform will be delivered to school.

If you are a returning student and your tuxedo is too small, the company offers a very generous trade-in credit to help offset the cost of a new tuxedo.  Please see the attached flyer for details.

Please be sure to try on your tuxedo to make sure it fits NOW so you have plenty of time to prepare for the concert in case it is too small.

Girls Uniform

The girls dresses are ordered from Southeastern Apparel by the AHSOA.  We have ordered a size run from 0-20 and girls will be able to try on their dresses to ensure a perfect fit.  Dresses usually need to be hemmed for appropriate length.  Be sure to take your shoes when visiting a tailor and plan ahead so you are not in a pinch for the first concert.

The cost of the dress is $65 and should be paid ASAP or by August 31.  Checks should be made payable to AHSOA.

Student Participation Fee (SPF)

Each family is expected to pay the student participation fee of $120.  As was explained at the potluck dinner, the SPF allows the orchestra to function and we could not provide the experiences we do without everyone contributing their fair share. The AHSOA would like the SPF paid by September 1. Please let Dr. Laux know if need to make special payment arrangements or if you have any questions or concerns.

Payments can be brought in to school and should be labeled in one of the provided envelopes and placed into the drop box in the back of the orchestra room.

Domino’s Pizza Card Fundraiser

Our Domino’s BOGO pizza card fundraiser is in full swing.  Our goal is 12 cards sold per student.  The cards sell for $10 and includes unlimited use of BOGO pizzas (any kind, any amount) until the end of June 2018.  After one use, the card has paid for itself!

We are taking orders (pre-paid) and the money (cash or checks to AHSOA) is due on Thursday, August 31!

The flyer and information can be downloaded here. (PDF)

GMEA All-State Orchestra Auditions

First Playing Assessment

Anchor Time – “Jam Session”

Anchor Time is an enrichment period offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  The Orchestra will be offering a “Jam Session” anchor time that students can use for solo practice or collaboration in small groups.  Students will sign up this week and will start in early September.