Hello all, scheduling happens this weeks and next at my school, and I need to figure out which classes I’m going to takes for junior year.
Here’s my schedule so far:
AP English Lang
AP Seminar
AP Calc BC
Physics honors/AP Physics 1 (whichever the school decides to offer)
US History honors
Woodshop 2
Choir/orchestra/something else
Let’s start with why I want to drop orchestra: we have a crappy teacher. I had her last year as well, and almost dropped orchestra this year, but my previous middle school orchestra director convinced me not to. I love playing cello so much, but her class is ridiculous. She doesn’t teach half the time and is always sitting in her office during class. The only reason I would keep this class is because some of my friends might be.
Why I want to drop choir: in contrast with orchestra, the choir program at my school is great and the directors are amazing. This year is my first year in choir and I’ve liked it pretty well. The thing is that next year, when I move up to a more advanced choir, it will start to cost A LOT. Beginning choir costs a lot to begin with, but as you move up your fees grow and you start going on trips across the country and even to Europe. It’s also a huge time commitment, like Saturday rehearsals, and I don’t know if I’m willing to commit that.
I love playing cello much more than singing, but I love the choir program much more than the orchestra program. I am most likely going to audition for a community orchestra next year.
If I drop both choir and orchestra, I’m not sure what to take as my seventh class also.
Please lend me any advice you have! Sorry if this post is long and confusing, I will try to clarify anything that doesn’t make any sense.
If I were you, I’d drop orchestra because it doesn’t sound like it’s very enjoyable. I can actually relate to wanting to play the instrument but having an awful class; I’ve had the same experience with band. Obviously, you won’t be dropping cello, just the orchestra class, because you’re thinking about auditioning for a community orchestra, and that sounds like it could be a lot more enjoyable and beneficial.
About choir, I’d keep it if I were you, since that way you’d still have some sort of music class during the school day, but I totally get the concern about the fees. Maybe there is a way to raise funds through some sort of fundraiser or summer job/part-time job you have? If you do end up dropping it, you could consider joining a community choir too. I know my community has a really good children’s choir (that goes through high school). It’s pricey too, but I’ve heard good reports from friends who are in it.
Good luck with your scheduling plans!
I would sit down with your choir teacher and ask them how past members who have had trouble paying have managed. I’m sure you aren’t the only one worried about cost, so they may have some good advice there. If you can find a way, you should continue.
I would also agree with your decision to drop orchestra and join a community orchestra. No need to continue in a class you don’t like, but you shouldn’t quit an activity you really enjoy.
Is there a less advanced, less expensive choir? Or does your school cut anyone who isn’t upper middle-class? Or is there some kind of financial aid to help with the fees?
If you can continue playing cello in the community, you should skip the unpleasant school orchestra experience.
