The McCallum Orchestra program started in 1953 with the opening of McCallum High School, and in 1994 McCallum became the home of AISD’s only Fine Arts Academy. If you are or know an eighth or ninth grade student from the Austin area who would like to join the Orchestra, you can apply to be a part the award-winning McCallum Fine Arts Academy. The Orchestra is also open to all McCallum students regardless of Academy status.
Under the guidance of Directors Ricky Pringle and Erika Elder, the McCallum Orchestra Program has grown to over 100 students and a wide variety of performing ensembles. McCallum musicians perform in three orchestras, a double bass ensemble, a violin ensemble, a viola ensemble, a cello ensemble and, with the support of the Austin Chamber Music Center educational outreach program, numerous other quartets and ensembles. The McCallum Orchestra is widely recognized for excellence, consistently receiving top ratings at UIL and State competitions. Each year McCallum plays at numerous community events and often at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and the National Cathedral. McCallum Orchestras and string ensembles also have the opportunity to collaborate with other Fine Arts Academy students and directors in dance, theatre, and vocal music. In 2018, the Greater Austin High School Musical Theatre Awards chose a McCallum Orchestra ensemble as Austin’s “Best Orchestra” for their performance in McCallum’s production of “West Side Story.”
Chamber Orchestra
Entry into the Chamber Orchestra is by audition only. Blind auditions are conducted at the end of each school year to determine the following school year’s Chamber Orchestra members. This ensemble serves as the Varsity Orchestra in all competitions and will represent the orchestra program at Academy showcases and other Fine Arts events. Students may not be considered for membership in the Chamber Orchestra prior to grade 10.
9th Grade Orchestra
All incoming 9th grade McCallum orchestra students begin in the 9th Grade Orchestra. This orchestra will focus on making a successful transition from middle school to high school orchestra and also provides students with a valuable opportunity to get to know one another. Select members from the 9th Grade and Concert Orchestras perform as Non-Varsity and Sub-Non-Varsity Orchestras at all competitions.
Concert Orchestra
Concert Orchestra is open to any student at McCallum High School in grades 10-12. Select members from the Concert and 9th Grade Orchestras perform as Non-Varsity and Sub-Non-Varsity Orchestras at all competitions. It is for serious students who are working to develop and improve their skills.
The Ensembles
Each of the four string sections has its own ensemble. Students who are working improve their technique and repertoire will have opportunities in this Ensemble to work with professionals in master classes. Students work with Mr. Pringle and Ms. Elder on chamber music and solo repertoire.
Austin Chamber Music Center Ensembles
The Austin Chamber Music Center provides an in-school coaching program with professional musician instructors from the Austin Symphony, Austin Lyric Opera and local or visiting professional artists with a passion for chamber music. Students learn about composers, are introduced to a wide range of music and hold Chamber and Ensemble Concerts in the Fall and Spring.
