Orchestras and Ensembles

COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL

The Community Music School's (CMS) orchestras and ensembles provide opportunities for motivated, pre-college instrumental musicians to perform with peers of similar ability and commitment, from String Ensemble (for strings players who have just begun to read music), through the Young People's Symphonic Orchestra (a full orchestra for advanced instrumentalists). Jazz Lab Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble offer group learning and performance options. CMS orchestras and ensembles meet during the academic year (September-May).

Questions?  Call (314) 968-5939 or email Katie Myler at myler@webster.edu.

STRING ENSEMBLE 

Average age: 7-10 years • Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass
This early level ensemble for strings emphasizes reading skills. Members must have a thorough knowledge of first position and familiarity with letter names of notes.

 

 

 

STRING ORCHESTRA 

Average age: 9-14 years • Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass
This intermediate-level string ensemble emphasizes music reading skills, understanding of ensemble playing technique, and experience playing repertoire more advanced than String Ensemble repertoire.

 

 
YOUNG PEOPLE'S CONCERT ORCHESTRA

Students in grades: 7-12 • Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, Flute, Piccolo, Oboe, English Horn, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba, Percussion
YPCO is the first full orchestra in the CMS system.

 

 

 

YOUNG PEOPLE'S SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA

Students in grades: 9-12 • Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, Flute, Piccolo, Oboe, English Horn, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba, Percussion
This full orchestra is the most advanced of the School's orchestras.

 

 

JAZZ LAB ENSEMBLE 

Students in grades 8 – 12 • Brass, Woodwind and String instruments plus a rhythm section of Guitar, Vibraphone, Piano, Drum Set, Latin Percussion, and Bass (electric or acoustic)
All melodic instruments are welcome to participate in the jazz lab ensemble, which will develop students' skills in improvisation, ensemble interaction, and personal musicianship.

 

 

PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE

Students in grades 9 – 12 • All Percussion Instruments
Designed to supplement individual and/or class percussion instruction, Percussion Ensemble help students develop strong fundamental skills in all areas of percussion and improve ensemble performance skills.