MISSION STATEMENT The success of our music programs centers on pride, commitment to task, and the willingness to work hard to achieve a common goal. We do not expect every student in the music programs to become a virtuoso musician. We do expect every student to establish both short and long range goals for improvement on his/her instrument, to exhibit mature responsible attitudes and actions at all times, to be willing to contribute lots of hard work for the benefit of all, and above all to develop the skills and tools necessary to become an independent musician that will impact the rest of the their lives. The music programs will also develop a student's social skills. Participation in orchestra enables the students to form close friendships within the school through their collaborative efforts. As a member of the LMS Orchestras, students make long-lasting friendships and develop a sense of camaraderie that is unique to our organization. There will be many opportunities for musical fellowship and fun through participation in the orchestra. Organizational goals are clearly established, and the students depend heavily on each other to achieve them. As a result, the concepts of responsibility, teamwork, and good citizenship will develop as each student experiences the world of music. The ultimate goal of the program is to produce graduates who are knowledgeable about music, can perform successfully with confidence, can operate within a structured framework, and can work to develop the skills necessary to become a life-long musician. In addition, the program also strives to produce informed adults of high integrity who understand and appreciate music and musicians, and who will foster the continuing developments of artistic endeavors in their community. JIM WANG, DIRECTOR OF ORCHESTRAS Mr. Jim Wang is in his first year as the Director of Orchestras at Lincoln Middle School. As a native from Southern California, Mr. Wang was the Strings Director for all of Rowland Unified School District in Rowland Heights, California and also taught private violin and viola lessons for seven years before coming to Lincoln Middle School. As a performer, Mr. Wang is the violist for the Belmont String Quartet. He is also an active violinist/violist and performs with various groups and ensembles in and around the Los Angeles and Orange County areas. Mr. Wang earned his Master's degree in Music Education at the University of Southern California. Prior to that, he graduated with honors from Biola University in La Mirada, California with a Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance. You can learn more about Mr. Wang here. http://sites.google.com/site/lmsorchestras/