Since the opening of our campus in 2005, the Seven Lakes Orchestras have striven to be a leader in musical performance through innovative programming and performances. We have sought to inspire our audiences and each other through diligent study and performance of the greatest string and symphonic music composed. It is a privilege to continue this legacy of excellence.
The Orchestra Program currently consists of seven String Orchestras and one Symphony Orchestra, with over 260 students enrolled in the program.
Camerata: Our entry level string orchestra. Students in this orchestra have developing technique and musicianship. Students in Camerata may audition to join Philharmonia Orchestra to perform for adjudication at UIL Concert and Sight Reading Evaluation in the Spring Semester. After school commitments are minimal, and include 3-4 after school rehearsal in the Fall Semester in preparation for the Winter Concert, and one after school clinic in preparation for those students participating in UIL. Participation in private lessons and Solo and Ensemble Contest are encouraged.
Philharmonia, Arietta, Serenata: Our intermediate level orchestras, comprised of students with intermediate level technique and musicianship. Students from these orchestras will perform at UIL Concert and Sight Reading Evaluation in the Spring Semester. After school commitments are minimal, and include 3-4 after school rehearsal in the Fall Semester in preparation for the Winter Concert, and one after school clinic in preparation for UIL. Participation in private lessons and Solo and Ensemble Contest are encouraged
Lyrica: Our advancing intermediate orchestra, students in Lyrica have advancing technique and musicianship. Students from this orchestras will perform at UIL Concert and Sight Reading Evaluation in the Spring Semester, and may also compete at state and national contests, including The Citation of Excellence Award from The Foundation of Music Education, and The American Prize in Orchestral Performance, in which Lyrica has a history of being a finalist. After school commitments for this ensemble include a mandatory after school rehearsal on Thursdays. Students in Lyrica orchestra are required to participate in Solo and Ensemble Contest, and participation in private lessons is highly encouraged.
Cambiata: An advanced non-varsity string ensemble; this ensemble seasonally combines with Sinfonia to perform as members of the Symphony Strings and the Symphony Orchestra. This ensemble has weekly sectional and afterschool rehearsal commitments.
Sinfonia: An advanced varsity string ensemble; this ensemble seasonally combines with Cambiata to perform as members of the Symphony Strings and the Symphony Orchestra. This ensemble has weekly sectional and afterschool rehearsal commitments.
Symphony: An elite symphonic ensemble comprised of the Cambiata and Sinfonia string players, and members from the Wind Symphony. This ensemble has afterschool rehearsal commitments.
The Seven Lakes High School Orchestra is dedicated to continuing its tradition of musical excellence through focused effort, collaboration, and artistic growth. We believe in shaping students who not only excel in performance but who embody honor, integrity, and humanity in all aspects of their lives.
Students develop skills aligned with Katy ISD’s “Portrait of a Graduate,” including communication, leadership, academic preparedness, citizenship, and lifelong learning.
The Seven Lakes Orchestras are committed to excellence, earning top honors in local, regional, and state contests while performing at prestigious venues like Meyerson Symphony Hall, Chicago’s Symphony Center, the Hilbert Hall and the World-Famous Carnegie Hall.
Highlights include:
Our students thrive in a focused, constructive environment, embracing service through projects with the Houston Food Bank and Katy ISD’s Santa Cops program.
“Give Bach” is an idea that students can give back to their orchestra, school, and community through music and service. Our goal is to be the premiere school for orchestra in KISD and ultimately, Texas.
