Ascension Christian School

ACH Youth Orchestra

Ascension Christian Music Program

Ascension Christian School's Music Department offers a comprehensive music education program for students in K5 through 12th grade. Under the direction of renowned musicians Dr. Borislava Iltcheva, Dr. Aaron Farrell, Dr. Will Martin, and Mr. Luis Castro, students receive expert instruction in music theory and performance.

The program boasts over 100 students, (K5-12) including a high school orchestra of over 30 members. Elementary students can participate in the program which includes private lessons during the school day in piano and/or violin. High school students schedule classes in piano and strings. High school students actively participate in regional orchestral competitions and vie for positions in the Baton Rouge Youth Orchestra. All students K5-12 perform regularly in various concerts. This robust program provides students with opportunities to develop their musical talents and gain valuable performance experience from some of the region’s most notable musicians.

If you have a passion for music or a desire to learn from the best, seize this incredible opportunity and join us at the Music School at Ascension Christian. Unleash your musical potential and embark on a rewarding and enriching musical education. Additional fees required.

TO INQUIRE FURTHER ABOUT PARTICIPATION:

ELEMENTARY STUDENTS (K-6) contact the school office at 225-644-3110.

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS (7-12) Contact the school’s Academic Counselor 225-622-2800.

A woman with long dark hair holds a violin close to her chest, smiling warmly. Borislava Iltcheva started playing the violin at age of 5. Ms Iltcheva holds a Bachelor degree from the Bulgarian National Academy, Masters and Doctorate Degrees in violin performance form Louisiana State University. Borislava has an active schedule as a soloist and chamber musician. She has been featured as a soloist. She has performed recitals throughout Europe, Asia and the United States. Ms Iltcheva is the Concertmaster of the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra.

A man with a beard and blue eyes smiles at the camera. Will Martin has extensive experience in both violin performance and music education. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Violin Performance from the University of Alabama and has taught at various institutions, including the University of Alabama and the University of Utah. His teaching experience ranges from pre-K violin literacy programs to directing middle school orchestras and coaching chamber music ensembles. Dr. Martin's commitment to music education is evident in his diverse background and dedication to nurturing young musicians.

A man in a suit holds a violin, smiling at the camera. Aaron Farrell received a Master of Music and Doctor of Music degree in violin performance from LSU as well as a Bachelor of Music from the Eastman School of Music. He has performed as a soloist with the Acadiana Symphony and the Baton Rouge Symphony, where he serves as the Principal Second Violin. He has also performed as a soloist with Louisiana Sinfonietta and orchestras in Greece and Romania. In addition. Aaron is active as a teacher, chamber musician and soloist in southern Louisiana.

A man with a beard and short hair smiles at the camera, wearing a blue shirt and black blazer. Luis B Castro is an accomplished cellist, educator, and entrepreneur from Caracas, Venezuela. A graduate with top honors from the Simón Bolívar Conservatory of Music and the National Experimental University of the Arts. He pursued advanced studies at Louisiana State University, earning a Master’s degree and delving into doctoral studies under the mentorship of Professor Dennis Parker with a minor in Arts Administration. Currently, Luis combines his passion for performance and education as a soloist, chamber musician, and dedicated faculty member, inspiring future generations through teaching and mentorship.

K5 – 6^th grade students may schedule private lessons during the school day. Please contact the ACE office for more information and cost.
Music Course Curriculum

Beginning Concert Orchestra: Orchestra I

This class will foster students' musical-creative abilities by teaching them how to play orchestral string instruments, piano, and study music theory fundamentals. The orchestral string instruments include violin, viola, cello, and bass. Students will play piano every class. Those who have never played piano will learn to play at a foundational level. Students who are more advanced pianists will have time every class to practice repertoire appropriate to their level. All students will develop fluent music reading skills, and the ability to sight read. All students will learn music theory fundamentals (rhythm, musical notation, harmony, etc.)
Symphonic Orchestra II – Orchestra II

This class is for students who have already taken Beginning Concert Orchestra at Ascension Christian High School. Students who have NOT taken Beginning Concert Orchestra must perform a short audition for Mr. Martin. All Symphonic Orchestra students must have a strong foundation in orchestral strings (violin, viola, cello, or double bass). As a minimum requirement, students must be able to read music fluently on their string instrument in the key of D major via Essential Elements Book 1. Symphonic Orchestra performs two concerts per semester. Repertoire will be intermediate and/or advanced level. In addition to playing string instruments, all students are required to learn piano. Students who are more advanced pianists will practice repertoire appropriate to their level. All students will further build upon their fluent music reading skills, and ability to sight read. All students will learn intermediate and/or advanced music theory concepts (scales, intervals, key signatures, rhythmic dictation, melodic dictation, etc.)
Beginning Piano – Piano I

This course is designed for individuals with no prior piano experience. It will introduce fundamental music theory concepts, including rhythm, note reading, and basic chord progressions. Students will learn to play simple melodies and accompany themselves with chords. Through hands-on practice and guided instruction, students will develop their keyboard skills and gain confidence in their musical abilities.
Intermediate to Advanced Piano – Piano II - IV

This course is designed for pianists with a solid foundation in music theory and keyboard technique. It will delve deeper into advanced music theory, exploring complex scales, chord progressions, and harmonic analysis. Students will learn to sight-read challenging pieces, develop their improvisational skills, and prepare for performances. The course will emphasize musical expression, interpretation, and technical proficiency, empowering students to tackle demanding repertoire and achieve their musical goals.