[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he iconic strains of holiday classics such as “O Little Town of Bethlehem” and “Jingle Bell Rock” fill a small room labeled “Orchestra” at Dripping Springs High.

Inside are seven students, part of a before-school orchestra club, who make their stringed instruments sing in preparation for upcoming holiday-themed events.

However, obtaining specific instruction during the school day isn’t a possibility. Band, choir and chorus groups that ...