Elementary Strings & Orchestra

Beginning

Our before-school program for students in 4th grade who have no previous playing experience on an orchestral string instrument. Students will select and learn to play either the violin, viola, or cello after school in a group format four days per week.

**Yes, 5th grade students with no prior experience are also able to join the Beginning Strings classes!

Beginning Strings classes begin Monday, Sept. 21, 2026

Classes meet at Lake Oswego Middle School.

Orchestra

Our before-school program for students in 5th grade who have played in Beginning Strings for one year or have previous playing experience on violin, viola, or cello. Students meet at the same time as the Beginning Strings classes. When students move up to orchestra in middle and high school, the orchestra class will occur during the school day. One year of Beginning Strings or Private Lessons encouraged.

*Yes, 4th grade students with one year of experience/lessons can join the Elementary Orchestra.
**Yes, 5th grade students with no prior experience are also able to join the Beginning Strings classes!

Elementary Orchestra classes begin Monday, Sept. 14, 2026

Classes meet at Lake Oswego Middle School.

Instrument Rental Information

Registration deadline: September 11, 2026

Registration links:

Orchestra     Beginner - Violins     Beginner - Violas     Beginner - Cellos

Fee Waiver/Fee Reduction Form

Registration form for the Lake Oswego School District Beginning Strings Classes:

• No prior experience necessary
• Instrument specific group classes in violin, viola, or cello
• Average class size of 20-30 students
• Monday through Thursday 7:00-7:45 am
• Students are expected to attend all 4 days of classes
• Cost of class is $1100 for the entire year. (Payable in one installment or two at $550 each)
• Paid separately on the LO Community Schools Platform

Registration form for the Lake Oswego School District Elementary Orchestra Classes:

• One year of Beginning Strings or Private Lessons encouraged
• Instruments combined for a string orchestra experience
• Break out sessions for individual instrument instruction
• Monday through Thursday 7:00-7:45 am
• Students are expected to attend all 4 days of classes
• Cost of class is $1100 for the entire school year. (Payable in one installment or two at $550 each)
• Paid separately on the LO Community Schools Platform

Information Nights

Join us for one of our upcoming Information Nights designed for parents, guardians, and students. You’ll hear about the program structure, instrument options, class times, and how to get started this fall.

• Lakeridge Middle School Orchestra Room
• Thursday, May 21 at 6:30 PM

These sessions are an excellent opportunity to meet the instructors, ask questions, and get your child excited to begin their musical journey!

View the Program Overview Slideshow

We look forward to seeing you there!