Pre-College Program

The pre-college program is designed to provide a well-rounded music education for students ages 5 to 18, which includes weekly private lessons, group classes, ensemble experiences and frequent performance opportunities. Private lesson study forms the core of the curriculum. This one-to-one relationship with a caring, professional instructor combined with a commitment to regular practice enables students to engage in the process of acquiring the technical and musical skills necessary for mastery of their chosen instrument. All students are encouraged to supplement the private lesson experience with musicianship and ensemble classes to broaden their total musical understanding.

To ensure a successful beginning musical experience through parental support, all students, age seven years or younger wishing to study an instrument are enrolled in Suzuki instruction. Parents desiring class instruction for their child before beginning instrumental study should register for early childhood classes.

The CMD offers a certificate program for the serious high school music student. Students work at their own rate to complete requirements for various levels of achievement. Components include the private lesson based on a sequential curriculum and graded repertoire list, successful achievement in theoretical studies, ensemble opportunities, and participation in repertoire classes and recitals. The program encourages growth of the total music student and provides tangible evidence of a student's study and accomplishments.

Classes/Ensembles

Kindermusik®
Our time
Imagine That!
Young Child

Explorations in Theory & Composition
Beginner Level (ages 9-11)
Intermediate Level (ages 11-14)

Performance Ensembles
Chicago Childern's Choir at DePaul
String Orchestra
Junior Flute Choir
High School Flute Choir
Clarinet Ensemble
Beginning Percussion
Musical Theatre
Chamber Music Ensemble
Jazz Improvisation Ensemble