Now in its 27th year, the String Orchestra Program is open to students studying violin, viola, cello and bass, ages seven years and older, who are playing at a Suzuki Book 2 level or higher. Emphasizing high quality performances and the development of ensemble techniques, the orchestra program complements the individual lesson experience and acquaints students with a wide range of repertoire for string orchestra. Our smaller ensembles allow the director to provide customized instruction to each student in an intimate, but rigorous setting. Weekly rehearsals culminate in performances at the end of each quarter. Enrollment in individual instruction at CMD is not required.
Mozart Ensemble
For beginning students with at least two years of study, this small group is an ideal first ensemble experience. Rehearsals concentrate on basic ensemble playing, orchestral conduct, and the development of strong reading and listening skills.
- 3:00pm-3:50pm, Saturday afternoons
Beethoven Ensemble
For intermediate and advanced players, the Beethoven Ensemble performs quality string literature from a variety of eras and styles. Emphasis is placed on refining ensemble techniques and developing a student’s musicality through orchestral performance.
- 4:00pm-5:30pm, Saturday afternoons
General Information
- Mina Zikri, Conductor
- 60-minute weekly sessions, Saturday afternoons
- $136 | 8 sessions
- $109 for CMD students in individual instruction
- Rehearsal dates for Fall 2022 are: 9/17, 9/24, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29, 11/5, 11/12, 11/19
2022-2023 Audition Information
All returning members need to audition for chair placements. Auditions will take place in person on Friday, September 9 and Saturday, September 10. Please use this link to sign up for your audition time: Youth Orchestra Audition Sign-Up. Audition times are first come first serve, so please sign up for a time as soon as possible. Audition requirements are below:
Mozart Ensemble:
- One scale and arpeggio of choice
- One solo repertoire piece (memorization not required)
- Short 'sight-reading' excerpt (to be provided)
Beethoven Ensemble (Suzuki Book 3 and up):
- Two or three octave scale and arpeggio of choice, including shifting
- One solo repertoire piece (memorization not required)
- Short 'sight-reading' excerpt (to be provided)
After auditions, students will receive their placement in either the Mozart or Beethoven Ensemble. Both groups meet on Saturday afternoons in the Holtschneider Performance Center: Mozart Ensemble from 3:00-3:50pm, and Beethoven Ensemble from 4:00-5:30pm. The Fall Concert will be held on Saturday, November 19 at 6:00pm in Allen Recital Hall.