Greetings from the WIS orchestra room.

I, Leanna Hershey, am the orchestra teacher in McFarland School District.  At WIS I teach the 5th grade orchestra.  Your child has the opportunity to participate in the orchestra program.  There is no experience necessary!  That is the great thing about the strings program.

In the past we have offered an exploratory night for students to try the string instruments.  Unfortunately we are unable to do that at this time.    So, we have put together some videos for you about the instruments.  I hope they will tell you a story about the instrument and why it might be the right fit for your child to play next year.  Linked here is more information and a list of FAQ's. (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SCBbB6wcVor7v5M3L2Zgcv6IZzxx8dqct8OXs9bUcLo/edit?usp=sharing)

In the past we have also been able to start students in the summer orchestra program.  At this time we are hopeful to have summer orchestra Aug 2- 12. We encourage students to participate in summer orchestra if they are able.  If they are not able that is fine and they will start in the fall.  

Most of our students typically rent from Ward-Brodt music in Fitchburg.  Our representative, Steve, is a great guy and a big help for us.  String instruments are sized to fit the student.  As the student grows, the instrument size gets bigger until they are playing a full size instrument.  This is why it is a good idea to rent to start.  Ward-brodt will trade up sizes as your child grows at no extra cost to you.

Please contact me with your questions.  I'll do my best to answer them as restrictions are lifted due to Covid-19 and we are making plans.

Leanna Hershey
hershel@mcfsd.org