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For the Parents and Boosters of the Fort Atkinson Orchestras     February 2004

Solo & Ensemble 2004
( http://www.fortschools.org/hswebs/OrchestraBoosters/Solo&Ensemble.htm )
      This year we are fortunate to have Solo & Ensemble here in Fort Atkinson at the High School. However, it takes plenty of willing volunteers to host a successful event. Fort Atkinson will be hosting two other schools in addition to our own Middle and High School participants. There are many areas where we could use help, please consider two of the following to make this a successful day for all of the music students:

Concessions for District Solo & Ensemble - Fund-Raiser
     The Orchestra Boosters will be taking care of concessions for the District Solo & Ensemble. We were glad to add this to our list of fund-raisers. Any profits from the concession sales will go towards orchestra student field trips, clinics, scholarships, etc.
     The Concessions Committee has taken care of the details but are in need of volunteers to help work the day of the event. Volunteer workers are also need to set up the evening before. There will be four two hour shifts where we will need 6 - 8 people per shift. Shifts the day of the contest are: 7-9 a.m.; 9-11a.m.; 11a.m. -1p.m.; and 1-3 p.m.
     If your student(s) are performing we will make sure you are not working at that time. Work will include serving food, cashier, and/or cleaning tables. If you are able to help, please call Mary Ellen Miller ( 563-9085 ) or Kelli Rowley ( 262-593-2714 ); or e-mail Kelli Rowley ( krrowley@ticon.net ) or Deb Ehrhardt ( ehrhardt@ticon.net ) as soon as possible.

Need Room & Door Monitors for Solo & Ensemble
     Mr. Cook and Mr. Engstrom are asking all three music booster organizations if they would
help supply volunteers to work a shift helping as runners, and monitors inside and just outside
the rooms. If your student(s) are performing they will make sure you are not working at that time.
If you are able to help with this please contact Tom Cook 563-7811 ext. 1120 or e-mail: cookt@mail.fortschools.org
     
Saturday, March 13, 2004 - District Solo & Ensemble      April 24, 2004 - State Solo & Ensemble
Fort Atkinson High School                                              UW-Whitewater
8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.                                                      8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Some Solo & Ensemble facts:
      Developed by the Wisconsin School Music Association, students in grades 6 through 12 from the Southern Lakes Conference schools will perform selected pieces for an adjudicator who will critique them and award them with a first through fifth placing.
      The Solo/Ensemble contest gives students extra incentive to practice and learn solo and/or ensemble pieces. It provides a wonderful performing experience for our young musicians. Sixth graders may play for critique only. This is a great experience in preparation for next year when they may play for a rating.
     Family and friends are welcome and encouraged to attend contest events. All performances are free and open to the public. Many students are playing solos as well as performing in one or more ensembles.

Piano Accompanist
      *Most solos and some ensembles require piano accompaniment. The total accompanist fee for rehearsals and performance is $10 per event. This must be paid directly to the accompanist before the Solo & Ensemble date.

Judge's Copy
     *Students must have a separate copy of their music to submit to the judges, known as the "judge's copy."   Photocopies are acceptable for ensembles, but original music must be submitted to the judge for solos.
     *All measures must be numbered on the music and if editions other than those on the contest list are used, the original copy must be submitted to the judge must contain any changes in bowing or fingering markings.
     *Most of the contest music is on file at school and may be used for judge's copy. If you have any questions, contact Mrs. Nielsen.