Youth Orchestra | Chamber Music Program | School of Music

The Community Music Division’s Youth Orchestra | Chamber Music Program (OCMP@CMD) builds community through the power of collaborative music. Our chamber groups and youth orchestra provide a rich experience that enhances growth, collaboration, confidence and resilience.

Led by top coaches, including Orchestra director Mina Zikri, 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 students in middle and high school.

Students must have at least four years of study; piano students must be playing Haydn/Mozart/Beethoven sonatas, or more advanced pieces. For early intermediate students, we offer an introduction to Chamber and Orchestra course. Click the tab below for more information.

OCMP is building 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!

Audition Information
Please thoroughly read the following information regarding OCMP@CMD Auditions.
Auditions not required for returning students.

The audition process is by video submission only.
- Audition Submission Form.
- Pay audition fee here.
- Video Submission deadline: August 15, 2025 11:59 PM
Audition Requirements for Strings and Piano

Strings (4+ years of study:)
- Three to four octave scale and arpeggio of choice.
- Two contrasting solo repertoire pieces, or parts of a large work, up to 3 minutes each (memorization not required.)
Piano (Chamber only)
- Four-octave scale and arpeggio of choice
- Two contrasting repertoire selections, up to 3 minutes each (memorization not required.)

General Information
Conductor
- Youth Orchestra conductor: Mina Zikri
Schedule
- Hour-long weekly orchestra rehearsals (strings only) on Saturday afternoons.
- Hour-long weekly chamber coaching sessions per semester (2 semesters per year) on weekends (weekday options may be available.)
- One masterclass per semester.
- One performance per semester.
- Fall semester: 8 weeks; Spring semester: 10 weeks.
DePaul Youth String Orchestra
- For intermediate/advanced and advanced players, the orchestra 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.
- Open to students in violin, viola, cello, and bass.
- String players are required to participate in both the orchestra and one chamber group.
Pricing
Fall Semester

Pricing
- General Fee: $350
- CMD Lesson Student: $300
Piano Students - Chamber Groups only
- General Fee: $250
- CMD Lesson Student: $215
Rehearsal Schedule
Introduction to String Orchestra and Chamber Music Course
For early intermediate students with at least two years of study, this small group is an ideal first ensemble experience. This course concentrates on basic ensemble playing, orchestral conduct, and the development of strong reading and listening skills.

Audition Requirements
- One scale and arpeggio of choice
- Two contrasting solo repertoire pieces up to 3 minutes each (memorization not required.)
Schedule
- Hour-long weekly classes on Sundays
- Fall Semester: 9/21-11/23
- Fall Semester: 8 weeks. Spring Semester: 10 weeks
Pricing

Fall Semester: $240

Youth Orchestra | Chamber Music Program

Audition Information

General Information

Pricing

Rehearsal Schedule

Introduction to String Orchestra and Chamber Music Course

School of Music

Admissions

Main Desk

Holtschneider Performance Center Box Office

Resources