Chamber music is a form of classical music characterized by its composition for a small group of instruments, typically meant for performance in a chamber or small room setting. This genre is distinguished by its intimate nature, where a small number of performers each play one part, as opposed to orchestral music where each part is played by multiple performers. This usually involves groups like string quartets, piano trios, wind quintets, etc.
Playing chamber music requires specific musical and social skills distinct from those needed for solo or orchestral performance. Musicians must closely listen to each other, communicate effectively, and collaborate seamlessly to achieve a unified interpretation.
Preparatory Program
Average Age: Appropriate for advanced students in grades 9-12. Middle school students may audition
with a recommendation from their private instructor.
Instruments: Piano, String and Wind instruments
2025-2026 Tuition: $1098 for academic year
Audition required.
The Preparatory Program is the pinnacle of CMS sequential music education program offering advanced chamber music training in various ensembles. Students receive high-caliber instruction from professional musicians, such as members of the SLSO, Arianna String Quartet, and Chamber Project St. Louis. This intensive program develops complete musicians through advanced repertoire, performance opportunities, and master classes, preparing graduates for lifelong musical success.
Weekly Chamber Coaching
Each chamber ensemble is coached weekly by a professional musician. Each semester concludes with a chamber concert.
Repertoire Selection
Students perform a graduated series of chamber works of different instrumentations to experience the breadth of chamber literature covering everything from Baroque period ensemble works to recent commissions.
Performance Opportunities & Master Classes
Students are given the chance to perform during Preparatory Program concerts. Master classes are available throughout the academic year with guest teaching artists and professional musicians. Some Prep students are invited to participate in national chamber music competitions like the Chicago National Chamber Music Competition and the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition.
How to Audition for the CMS Preparatory Program
Auditions for the 2025-2026 CMS Preparatory Program are will be held September 6 & 7, 2025.
Applications to audition for 2025-2026 will be available on July 1. For inquiries, email cms@webster.edu
Learn more about CMS auditions.
Rotation and Concert Dates
There will be two rotations - one each semester. Concert dates are to be determined but will be in December and April.
Chamber Music Exploration
Average age: Appropriate for intermediate students in grades 4-12.
Instruments: Piano and string instruments
2025-2026 Tuition: $732 for academic year
Audition required*.
Chamber Music Exploration is a chance for advancing students to perform music in chamber group settings throughout the school year. This form of music is written for one player to play each part. Groupings may include trios, quartets, and quintets. Friday evening and Saturday afternoon availability preferred.
Requirements: To participate in the program students must be at or beyond the following representative minimum skill levels:
- Violin: Suzuki Book 4-Vivaldi a minor Concerto
- Viola: Suzuki Book 4-Seitz Concerto No. 2, 3rd movement
- Cello: Suzuki Book 4-Breval Sonata in C Major
- Piano: Clementi or Kuhlau Sonatinas
Weekly Chamber Coaching
Students will meet with their chamber ensembles weekly. Basic music theory training will be integrated into the coaching sessions.
Performance Opportunities
Chamber Music Exploration ensembles will perform at the end of each semester during a CMS student recital.
How to apply for Chamber Music Exploration
Auditions for the 2025-2026 CMS Chamber Music Exploration Program are held September 6 & 7, 2025.
Applications to audition for 2025-2026 will be available on July 1. For inquiries, email cms@webster.edu
Learn more about CMS auditions.
*Students who participate in the Summer Chamber Music Encounter may participate in Chamber Music Exploration. No additional audition required.