Madison City Youth Orchestra celebrated its first anniversary with more than 100 musicians in its ranks. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Madison City Youth Orchestra, which expanded by tenfold in one year, is celebrating its first birthday.

The orchestra first rehearsed on July 15, 2013 with 11 students.

“In one year, we’ve grown to over 100 students. I couldn’t be more proud,” Rebecca Wortham said. William and Rebecca Wortham instruct and conduct the student musicians.

“I am humbled by the success of this joint endeavor,” Rebecca Wortham said. “I believed we might have 20 to 30 students at the end of the first year, and I was happy to believe such.”

The Worthams both hold master’s degrees in education. They own Harmony Home Music Studio.

Auditions are held year-round. Intermediate-level students must have one year of experience, should know three scales by memory and sight-read grade 1-2 music.

Advanced intermediate students must have studied a level-two method book, have two years experience, know five scales by memory and sight-read grade 2-3 music. Advanced-level students must be familiar with level three, play eight scales by memory and sight-read grade 3-4 music.

Beginners aren’t required to audition.

Beginners in the orchestra will learn to properly maintain their instruments, technique, posture and basic music history and theory. “And all while making friends and having fun,” Wortham said.

Instruments accepted in the orchestra include flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, French horn, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, drums and bells, along with violins, violas, cellos, bass and harp.

The student’s age, grade, school attended, participation in private lessons and chair placement in other organizations have no bearing on Madison City Youth Orchestra auditions or level placement. Sight-reading is an important factor  — half of the final score.

“Music empowers. Music heals. I love each and every one of these kids,” she said.

For more information, email to teachersquared@gmail.com or visit Facebook/Madison City Youth Orchestra.