The MHS Orchestra program is in its infancy.  The program is a continuation of the orchestra program at Missouri City Middle School.  Orchestra students play violin, viola, cello, and bass.  They must previously played on their instrument for at least one year prior to entering the program.  Students entering the program will need to perform an audition to be accepted and placed within the program.  We do not teach beginning students in orchestra.

Each year the orchestra students have the opportunity to participate in the Texas Music Educators Association region orchestra.  Students must prepare the region etudes and selected music cuts.  They may then audition on a specified Saturday in October for the region orchestra.  Students that are selected to be in the orchestra will participate in a clinic in November.  They will prepare music with a guest conductor on a Friday evening and Saturday morning.  A concert is held in the afternoon.  Students who make the region orchestra at a certain level may also audition the the All-State Orchestra.  Selection to the All-State Orchestra involves a trip in February to San Antonio to the TMEA clinic and convention.  The student will prepare music under the direction of nationally and internationally known conductors to present at a concert on the Saturday ending the convention.

In February, students will participate in the UIL Solo and Ensemble contest for Region 13.  Students must prepare the solo or ensemble on their own and with some assistance from the orchestra director.  The solo or ensemble is performed for a judge for a rating and comments.  Students who participate may earn up to a Superior rating which is awarded a medal for the achievement.

As the orchestra grows in size, the group will go to UIL Concert and Sight Reading contest.  The orchestra prepares three selections of music to perform before three judges for a rating and comments.  The students will then proceed to perform a piece they have not seen before for three judges.  They will also assign a rating and give comments.

Finally, students will perform with the Missouri City Middle School orchestra for major concerts.  They may also play for civic groups, in MHS Fine Arts activities, and in recruiting concerts.  Students are also encouraged to perform for friends, family and other situations such as church and family events.