Through our orchestral programs our students are learning to play instruments as they foster a life-long love of music.
Why Orchestra?
“Orchestra teaches students the value of practice, dedication, and fulfillment when they achieve their goals. Orchestra also explores concepts that intertwine with math and reading and because music is a universal language, it transverses history.”
Katherine Garramone, Music Director & Orchestra Teacher
No audition is required to attend PPA, the only tuition-free, public arts-focused school in Douglas County where any student can join orchestra and every 5th and 6th grader learns to play an instrument.
We offer
- beginning, intermediate, advanced and chamber orchestra
- beginning, intermediate, advanced and jazz band
- guitar and keyboard
During orchestra class students work closely with others to achieve the common goal of creating music. As this promotes a sense of community and belonging, they form support networks with their fellow musicians that frequently lead to enduring friendships, but that’s not all.
What We Learn in Orchestra
The benefits of learning to play an instrument are well documented and include positive effects on learning, memory, fine motor skills, and verbal reasoning.
“Orchestra is not just a class, it's a way for a student to develop as a whole person from the brains, body, and mental health.”
Katherine Garramone, Music Director & Orchestra Teacher
In addition, PPA’s orchestral students are learning patience, discipline, and focus as they improve their musical skills – all valuable in their academic and personal lives as well.
The orchestras perform both at school and in Douglas County. PPA students audition to participate in the DCSD Honor Band and Honor Orchestra with students from across the district. They also entertain at the CASA Red Wagon gala and have played the National Anthem at a Rockies game.
Some PPA alumni continue to study music at high schools like Valor and Denver School of the Arts.
For those students more interested in vocal music, our choral program provides several opportunities including Choir and Pop Choir. 5th and 6th graders enrolled in these choirs learn complex skills like singing 3-part harmony. Solo performances may be offered to any choir student in any grade throughout the year. PPA choir students also audition for the All State Choir.
To learn more about PPA’s unique arts-focused program, go to our website or schedule a school tour now and visit Parker Performing Arts School to see how our orchestras are bringing kids together.
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About Parker Performing Arts School
Parker Performing Arts School (PPA) is a public, tuition free performing arts school serving elementary and middle school students, chartered by the Douglas County School District. We deliver the art of education combining a rigorous academic curriculum and daily training in performing and visual arts We accept all K-8 students interested in pursuing their artistic passion. Enroll now.