Specialists

We are happy to be here at Forest Hills teaching Art, Band, Music, Orchestra, Physical Education, or Spanish on a 21-day cycle! We also support classroom learning by incorporating strategies to support literacy and math.

Art

World Language

Music

Orchestra

The beginning orchestra program consists of a lesson program and large ensemble experience. Students have the option to participate in orchestra in 5th grade in our elementary schools. Now is the best time for students to start learning an instrument as there is no beginning orchestra program at CMS.

In the Elementary Beginning Orchestra, students will develop correct playing posture, will learn the fundamentals of playing music, and how to read music. Elementary orchestra provides students with a solid musical foundation to enter higher level orchestra offerings at Central Middle School and Eden Prairie High School.

Instruction is offered on the following instruments:

Violin – Viola – Cello - Bass

Students in orchestra will participate in a 22-minute group lesson (5-7 students) once a week during the school day. Students will rotate through a lesson schedule so they will not miss the same class every week. In addition, students will participate in a 45-minute large group ensemble once a week during the school day beginning in November. Students will participate in 3-4 concerts during the school year.

Contact Us

For additional information please contact Jeremy Mattson at 952-975-2341.

Band

The beginning band program consists of a lesson program and concert band experience for 5th grade students in their first year of playing a band instrument. Now is the best time for students to start learning an instrument as there is no beginning band program at CMS or EPHS. Students will get to select their instrument, learn basic music fundamentals, and perform at three concerts during the year.

Instruction is offered on the following instruments:
Flute - Oboe - Clarinet - Alto Saxophone - Trumpet - French Horn - Trombone - Baritone - Tuba - Percussion

Each student will receive a 22 minute small group lesson and a 45 minute large group rehearsal once per week during the school day. Students will rotate through a lesson schedule so they will not miss the same class every week. Small group lessons will begin in October. Large group band rehearsals will begin at the end of November.
There is a cost incurred by each student’s family to obtain an instrument. This is explained in more detail in the Instrumental Music Handbook. Most importantly, no student will be denied the opportunity to participate in the Eden Prairie instrumental music program due to financial constraints. Scholarships are available.
Fifth graders will be attending a short instrument demonstration concert in September where they will get to see and hear all of the different instruments. Students will come home with an Instrumental Music Handbook describing the registration process. ALL students must return the registration form (the last page of the Instrumental Music Handbook) by the date specified. They will then be scheduled for a 10 minute instrument interview to try out their instruments which will be scheduled toward the end of September.

Contact Allison Jensen 952-975-4368 for further information.