School of Music > Community Music > Programs > Pre-College > OCMP @ CMD

Youth Orchestra | Chamber Music Program

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Community Music Division’s Youth Orchestra | Chamber Music Program (OCMP@CMD) builds community through the power of collaborative music. We are dedicated to fostering meaningful connections and a deep appreciation for music as we give students the tools to advance on their musical journey. Our chamber groups and youth orchestra provide a rich experience that enhances growth, collaboration, confidence and resilience. 

Led by top coaches including Mina Zikri and members of the KAIA String Quartet, the OCMP curriculum improves communication, discipline, note-reading and teamwork. Students develop accountability for their own part and the ensemble as a whole.
OCMP@CMD is open to string students ages seven to eighteen. Beginning students must have at least two years of study: piano students must be playing Haydn/Mozart/Beethoven sonatas, or more advanced pieces. OCMP is building a vibrant community and lasting musical bonds. Students learn to listen deeply, focus intently, and support each other -- lessons which extend far beyond the rehearsal room. We invite you to join us—learn more below!

Please thoroughly read the following information regarding OCMP@CMD Auditions. Includes returning students. 

This year, the audition process is by video submission only. Audition videos must include a metronome clicking at the tempo specified for each excerpt.

Audition Requirements for Strings and Piano

Mozart Ensemble (Suzuki Book 2 and up):

  • One scale and arpeggio of choice
  • One solo repertoire piece up to 3 minutes (memorization not required)
  • Prepared excerpts, located below. Both pieces need to be prepared in full. Memorization not required. Please prepare both Canon AND Dona Nobis.
  • Violinists should audition with the violin part they are most comfortable playing, keeping in mind this will not determine a position in the orchestra.

PIECE 1

PIECE 2

 

Beethoven Ensemble (Suzuki Book 4 and up):

  • Three to four octave scale and arpeggio of choice. 
  • One solo repertoire piece or part of a large work up to 3 minutes (memorization not required).
  • Prepared excerpts, located below. Both pieces need to be prepared in full. Memorization not required. Please prepare both Farandole AND Brevard Sketches.
  • Violinists should audition with the violin part they are most comfortable playing, keeping in mind this will not determine a position in the orchestra.

PIECE 1

PIECE 2

Piano:

  • Four-octave scale and arpeggio of choice
  • Two contrasting repertoire selections (memorization not required)
  • Up to 3 minutes for each solo piece

 


 

ocmp chamber group

 

Coaches

  • Youth Orchestra conductor: Mina Zikri
  • Chamber Group coaches: KAIA String Quartet (Victoria Moreira, violin; Naomi Culp, violin; Susan Bengtson-Price, viola; Hope DeCelle, cello)

Schedule

  • Eight hour-long weekly orchestra rehearsals (strings only) on Sunday afternoons (weekday options may be available)
  • Seven hour-long weekly chamber coaching sessions per quarter (3 quarters per year) on Sunday afternoons
  • One masterclass per quarter
  • Three end-of-quarter performances during the year


Youth String Orchestras

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.

     

Beethoven Ensemble

  • For intermediate/advanced 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. 

 

Pricing

  • General Fee: $312
  • CMD Lesson Student: $282


Piano Students - Chamber Groups only 

  • General Fee: $208
  • CMD Lesson Student: $188

Final Schedule To Be Announced

Tentative Rehearsal Schedule

12:30 - 2:45 PM

9/22
9/29
10/6
10/13
10/20
10/27
11/3
11/10

Concert

11/16 6:00 PM

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