Milton HS Orchestra Preview/Announcements
7/19/2026 9:12 pm
Good afternoon! I hope everyone is enjoying a wonderful summer!
Don’t worry, I’m not trying to end your (or my) vacation early. I just thought that the planners among you might like a heads up/reminder about a few things…
- Do you know a student who will need a parking spot? Watch our Instagram and Facebook pages (@miltonorchestra) for the July 27 auction link (spot in the Teal Row of the Red Lot). Proceeds support the Milton HS Orchestra Booster Club!
- If you already saved concert dates, please note that we had to move our Spring Concert back one day to May 12, 2027. This change is reflected at miltonorchestra.org/calendar
- Our Milton Orchestra parent meeting will be at 6:30 pm on 8/13 at Milton HS. It is important that every student has at least one parent/guardian present. We’ll keep it focused and kick off the year strong!
- Looking at school supplies? Don’t neglect your instrument. As a general rule, violinists, violists, and cellists should begin the year with new strings on their personal instruments (while bassists can go longer, evaluate whether your instrument is due). Many shops will do this for you if you purchased/rented your instrument there. Maybe it’s even time for an instrument and/or bow upgrade! I’m happy to answer questions about any of this.
FAQs (New to Milton Orchestra? Think of something I missed? Email cummingsas@fultonschools.org to ask a question or simply introduce yourself/say hello!)
Do I need my instrument on the first day of school?
No, but we do usually begin playing by Day 2. Take the first day to say “hi”, get an instrument locker, and more.
What is going on this year?
Lots! It’s like a “choose your own adventure” with our core concerts/performances for everyone and many optional performance and social opportunities through Milton Orchestra, FCS Music, and the Georgia Music Educators Association.
The best way to stay on top of things is through our website calendar (you will also find registration links when available by selecting the event on the calendar). https://www.miltonorchestra.org/calendar
Why orchestra?
Wow, we’re getting philosophical now! I’ve thought a lot about this over the summer and can’t wait to explore this topic with students, parents, and future Milton Orchestra members. First of all, if we’re doing it right, it’s fun! Beyond that I believe, in the age of AI more than ever, performing arts classes play a crucial role rounding out your school/life experience and cognitive/social development.
In case you need more reasons, I have it on good authority that many college admissions officers and future employers feel the same way. Specifically, they value grit, problem solving, and pro-social skills, and many are well aware that music students possess these in higher than average proportions.
Do we go on trips?
Yes! We are currently planning (optional) trips to Universal Orlando in Spring 2027 and Italy in early Summer 2028.
Do I need my own instrument?
At the high school level, it is expected that you are reviewing/practicing at home. Violinists and violists bring their personal instruments back and forth (lockers are available), while most cellists/bassists use their personal instruments for practice/concerts and school instruments on a daily basis for rehearsal.
Most students who are successful have invested in a high quality student or step-up instrument from a reputable string-focused shop. Of course, we recognize that this could be financially or otherwise difficult for some families and in those cases have school instruments available upon request to ensure access for all.
Can I balance orchestra and other activities such as sports?
Yes! We recognize that orchestra students are a diverse group with many interests, including academics and athletics. In the spirit of Milton’s claim as a “Triple A” school (Arts, Academics, Athletics), we work well together to weigh options and resolve conflicts in an equitable manner. These are handled on an individual basis.
Is there a financial/fundraising obligation?
Like music programs nationwide, the funding we receive directly from our district only covers a portion of operating costs. Realizing that many orchestra families don’t want to spend a lot of time throughout the year fundraising, we rely primarily on an initial activity fee, donations, and business sponsorships to cover the difference. These funds help with student activities, instrument maintenance and upgrades, guest clinicians, and much more.
The Milton HS Orchestra Booster Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Beginning this year, we will collect all payments, including activity fee, through the orchestra booster club via Membership Toolkit (miltonorchestra.org) in order to reduce the number of digital platforms you have to interact with (no more separate activity fee through the Milton HS website).
Bottom line: Last year’s fee was $125.00. I expect this year’s to remain about the same, and the whole patron/sponsorship program will be easier to navigate for those who can help in a bigger way!
As mentioned above with instruments, flexibility is available for families needing financial assistance.
I’m looking forward to a great year! Once again, don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, to introduce yourself, or just to say hello. See everyone soon!
Regards,
Andrew Cummings, Director
Milton HS Orchestras
cummingsas@fultonschools.org
