Welcome to Buchanan High School Orchestra!
The first year of high school is exciting, but it can also be intimidating. Orchestra may not seem like it would make a big difference—but it does. For many students, the orchestra rehearsal room becomes the center of their day: the first stop in the morning, the last stop before heading home. It’s where friendships are built, support is found, and unforgettable music is created. Orchestra isn’t just a class…it’s a place that changes lives.
Why Music? Check out these videos below featuring actual students who are involved in music (and their parents!
More Than Just Music Making…
We believe in educating the whole student. Beyond musical growth, we hold our students to high standards of character, respect, and responsibility. Through hard work, dedication, and teamwork, students develop the skills—and the character—needed to grow into confident, prepared young adults ready for what comes next.
Getting into college is tough. Consistent participation in the performing arts can give your application an advantage!
Most of our students would say that being involved in instrumental music has been a key part of their college preparation.
Life-Changing Experiences
How could being involved in music make such a difference? Buchanan Instrumental Music Graduates are attending or have been accepted to nearly every major college/university in the state as well as several highly regarded universities around the country. When asked, they would say that instrumental music played a huge role in their lives during high school. We promise you the same thing: four exciting years of thrilling performances, exciting trips, and friendships that will last a life time.
The following links have a wealth of information about our program, Buchanan, and planning the next four years of high school. If you have any questions at all, please feel free to contact us anytime.
The School Year at a glance...
Fall • August to November
The school year begins with seating auditions and preparation for our fall concert in October. The Chamber Orchestra typically attends the orchestra festival at College of the Sequoias. All State honor group auditions take place.
Winter • November & December
All focus turns towards our winter concert and dessert auction, one of our most exciting events of the year. County honor orchestra auditions are held. FMCMEA Honor Orchestra & All State weekends are in early January. The orchestras travel to the Homestead Orchestra festival in Cupertino in early February.
February to Early April
Everything gears up for a busy festival season in March and sometimes early April, where our orchestras perform at the festival concert and multiple adjudicated festivals.
End of the Year
Everything culminates with the end-of-the-year concert and a celebration of our graduating seniors!
Can you do music in high school and still go to college? Yes! Click the link below to see how.
