School orchestra programs and private strings teachers (Seattle, Bellingham: middle school, camps)

[AminWi]

I'm looking for information on school orchestra programs in Seattle. Which middle and high schools in the Seattle area have really good orchestra teachers? I'm not necessarily looking for the most prestigious orchestra program, but one with directors/teachers who are supportive and provide solo and ensemble events for the students to compete in. I'd also be interested in knowing if the program is so competitive that interested students might not be able to participate.

Also, if you have any recommendations for private viola and violin teachers in the area, I'd appreciate that info as well. Thanks in advance!

[fnh]

Garfield HS in Seattle has an orchestra program consistently ranked among the top in the country:

Garfield High School Orchestras

You will want to find an instructor after you settle on a location and school.

[kaday]

Garfield is excellent. I'm on the board of their orchestra if you want to PM any questions. Hamilton Middle school has great feeder program as does Jane Adams and Washington Middle school. All public schools offer the chance to participate in Solo and Ensemble in Seattle and Garfield students are encouraged to start their own groups and can even get paying gigs in which to perform. You also might want to also look into Seattle Youth Symphony. They have 5 orchestras and practice on Saturdays in Shoreline and run high level camps called Marrow stone in the City (up to age 15) and Marrow stone Muisc Festival (15 and up in Bellingham at Western Wash U). Roosevelt HS has a solid program too though I only know through reputation.

[homesinseattle]

Our 12 year old daughter studies violin, wonderful guy named Brandon Vance (has been national fiddle champion) gives her private lessons, actually in our Phinney Ridge home. It's not as expensive as you think, he is fabulous. Here is his info: Bio

[AminWi]

Thank you all so much for the info so far! I really appreciate it. If anyone else has other suggestions/information, please add. We'd be open to some of the suburban districts, too.

[mhays25]

I saw Garfield's jazz band at Lincoln Center in NY once for the Essentially Ellington competiton. They've won several times including that year. I was just in NY by chance.