A Legacy of Excellence: 27 Years of the CMS Preparatory Program
Vera Parkin with Prepartory Program Students
In Fall 1998, the St. Louis Symphony Community Music School launched an ambitious initiative that would transform music education in the region. The Saturday Preparatory Program (now named CMS Preparatory Program or Prep) began with just 16 students and a bold vision: To rival the preparatory divisions of America's most prestigious conservatories.
Innovation from the Start
Under founding Artistic Coordinator Vera Parkin's leadership, the program introduced a innovative rotation system. Rather than static ensembles, students experience multiple distinct chamber music configurations each season — developing the adaptability and collaborative skills essential for professional success.
The comprehensive curriculum extended beyond ensemble work to include theory, ear training, music history and performance opportunities, all enhanced by coaching from St. Louis Symphony Orchestra members, distinguished faculty from area institutions, and the Arianna Quartet, Quartet-in-Residence at UMSL.
National Recognition
The program's excellence earned unprecedented recognition: six consecutive National Endowment for the Arts grants from 2011-2017, supporting the annual "St. Looey Chamber Blitz" and masterclasses with legendary artists, including cellist János Starker, violinists Vadim Repin, Anne Akiko Myers, Pinchas Zukerman, violist Peter Slowik and conductors David Robertson and Gilbert Vargas.
In competition, Prep groups advanced to the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition quarter-finals for 15 consecutive years, with multiple semi-final appearances and notable victories including the Serendipity Quartet's second prize in 2011.
Extraordinary Outcomes
The results speak volumes: Nearly 500 alumni have launched professional careers, with 80% sustaining music careers — rivaling the most prestigious preparatory programs. Graduates have earned admission to top conservatories, including Juilliard, New England Conservatory, Eastman School of Music and Rice University, with annual scholarship awards frequently exceeding $1 million.
Continuing Excellence
The CMS Preparatory Program has maintained its commitment to developing not just skilled musicians, but cultural ambassadors. As Parkin noted, students learn to view music as "a means for distributing goodwill and grace."
After 27 years, the Preparatory Program stands as a testament to the power of innovative pedagogy, world-class partnerships and unwavering artistic standards — preparing the next generation of musicians to shape classical music's future.