Tyler Goehring Rules and Conventions of an Orchestra Rehearsal. I will be observing three Symphony Orchestra rehearsals.

This particular figured world is made up of a large group of student musicians and the conductor. The main goal is to bring the notes off of the paper in front of the musicians and make music. Although this is the main objective, learning new techniques and small side conversations do occur. General rule and conventions include: Being early to rehearsal is imperative so that you can unpack and warm up properly and start on time. Always have your instrument and all of its parts for they are essential. Always have all of the music you are playing. Being well prepared to play your music and focused to do such will speed the rehearsal faster to its end. Although many want to leave early, asking questions if you do not understand something or need help on a section will make rehearsal run smoother the next time. Do not disrespect any other person in the orchestra for any mistakes or questions they ask. Use only constructive criticism. Mark your music. Do not talk while the conductor is talking. He is saying something relevant and important. Do not talk in between pieces of music. During tuning, do not talk or play anything other than tuning notes for it will disrupt peoples ears. Wear appropriate clothing. If you wear a dress, be mindful of how you sit. Do not mess with anyone elses instrument unless you have their permission. Stay after rehearsal to pick up your chair and stand. Discourse Communities are a group of people who strive to achieve a goal and communicate in their own ways within their own Figured World. The Orchestra as a whole is a discourse community which relies upon each person to have his/her part(s) prepared. The main way of communication is though the music they produce. However, supplemental instruction must be added in the form of verbal communication given by the Conductor or the Principals to fix issues such as tempo or intonation. They all work together to reach their goal of creating beautiful music. In the different sections is another discourse community which uses verbal communication as a vital way of communicating within a section. Ideas, bowings or fingerings must be told to all members of the section. Playing their instruments is a supplemental in the explanation. Visual cues also play a large role because all players in the section watch the principal player to guide the bowings and give other important ques. Their main goal is to have the section balanced within the orchestra and to make their part fit into the larger puzzle.