The Frederick Douglass High School Orchestras are under the direction of head director Mrs. Sarah Payne and Assistant Director Mr. Kevin White.
There are currently 3 orchestra classes at FDHS that make up various string ensembles throughout the school year. These ensembles are the Concert Orchestra (General Orchestra), Symphonic Orchestra (Advanced Credit), and Chamber Orchestra (Advanced Credit). The Symphonic and Chamber Orchestra are both audition only ensembles.
All of the FDHS Orchestras have received straight distinguished ratings at the KMEA Orchestra Assessment since the school has opened in 2017. The FDHS Chamber Orchestra was selected as the featured performing ensemble for the KMEA Conference in 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the students created an innovative virtual performance for the virtual conference. The North Star Philharmonic (which was a combined ensemble of Symphonic Band, Symphonic Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra) was selected to perform at the 2022 KMEA Conference as a featured performer. The Chamber Orchestra was selected and performed at the 2023 KMEA Conference and a combined ensemble of Concert, Symphonic and Chamber Orchestra students received a Superior Rating and Trophy at the 2024 Acclaim Music Festival.
The Frederick Douglass Orchestras provide multiple opportunities for the students, including mentoring programs wither our feeder middle schools, participation in the KMEA Solo and Ensemble Festival, auditioning and participating in the KMEA High School Honors Orchestra and All-State Orchestra, an after-school Caroling club, a Pit Orchestra for the musical and a Tri-M Student Chapter.
For more information regarding the Frederick Douglass High School Orchestras, please contact the director Sarah Payne.
Frederick Douglass High School Orchestras 