duPont Manual High – Philharmonic Orchestra 1, 2, 3, 4

Mar 2026 · 2nd Semester

YPAS Philharmonia Orchestra I, II, III, and IV are for YPAS orchestra majors and double majors, as well as very advanced Manual orchestra students. The class will also feature some of the advanced woodwind, brass, and percussion students at YPAS on some of the performances. The main performing orchestra at YPAS, the Philharmonia has a distinguished reputation as being one of the finest high school orchestras in the nation. Performances have included appearances at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, Music Educators National Conference (MENC) and American String Instructors Association (ASTA) conventions, Carnegie Hall, the Orchestra America National Festival, and the National Public Radio show, “From the Top”. The focus of this class will be on advanced string technique, superior intonation and rhythm, bow technique, mature interpretation and style, ensemble and listening skills, and advanced concepts of orchestral sound and color, as well as advanced music theory and history. A variety of string and full orchestra literature will be studied and performed. Performances will include on-campus and off-site concerts, an adjudicated performance at the KMEA Orchestra Festival in March, and other possible collaborations. There will be additional rehearsals, sectionals, and master classes scheduled from time to time after school, and students are expected to attend as part of their participation and/or concert grade.