Orchestral Ensembles
El Sistema Oklahoma provides large-ensemble music opportunities for all participants. All orchestras are generally divided by grade level and musical ability.
​Nueva is our youngest group, consisting of all first-year musicians who are in grades 3rd-5th. These musicians attend El Sistema Monday through Friday and are automatically enrolled in Fundamentals, Composition, and participate in weekly team-building activities. The 2025-2026 Nueva String Orchestra is conducted by Ms. Shae Uthe, OCU Graduate and Violin Instructor.
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Promesa typically consists of 2nd-year musicians, expanding on their foundational musical skills learned in the previous year. Promesa students attend El Sistema three days a week and participate in Fundamentals, Composition, and weekly team-building activities. The 2025-2026 Promesa Band is conducted by Ms. Karissa Harrold, El Sistema's Program Coordinator and Flute Instructor.
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Alegria is El Sistema's 5th and 6th grade ensemble. The goal for Alegria students is to expose them to a Full Orchestra setting while continuing to develop individual technique. Alegria students have the option to take additional classes including Composition and Chamber. The 2025-2026 Alegria Orchestra is conducted by Zander Bacon, SWOSU Graduate and Percussion Instructor.
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Luminosa is El Sistema's 7th and 8th grade ensemble. The goal for Luminosa students is to prepare them for the high school ensemble experience and to provide additional performance opportunities. Luminosa students have the option to take additional classes including Leadership, Chamber, and Fortaleza secondary-instrument. The 2025-2026 Luminosa Orchestra is conducted by Ms. Karissa Harrold, El Sistema's Program Coordinator and Flute Instructor.
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Esperanza is El Sistema's most advanced ensemble. Typically consisting of high school students, Esperanza performs repertoire that is both challenging and reflective of their musical abilities. This group participates in collaborative partnerships with guest conductors and university orchestras throughout the year. The goal for Esperanza musicians is to prepare them for post-secondary life, college experiences, and lifelong music-making.
The 2025-2026 Esperanza Orchestra is conducted by Ms. Cheyenne McCoy, El Sistema's Site & Events Coordinator and Cello Instructor.
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In addition to orchestral ensembles, all students are enrolled in instrument classes where they receive instrument-specific instruction. Classes are divided by orchestra placement and are taught by local musicians, educators, and ESO alumni.
