Orchestras

Perform with talented young musicians in the largest ensemble program north of Boston, led by some of New England’s finest conductors.

The Music School offers three levels of orchestras that guide students from their beginner ensemble experience all the way through playing in a high level full orchestra.

String Preparatory Orchestra

The perfect first step in orchestral playing! Students learn to follow a conductor and play in a string section. Students gain an understanding of playing in tune, mastering a melodic and harmonic balance, interpreting dynamics, tempo, and performance etiquette.

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  • Conductor: Deborah Markow
  • Ages: Youth
  • Dates: 9/29/26 - 6/1/27 Students can join anytime at the discretion of the conductor
  • Times: Tuesdays 5:30 - 6:30 PM
  • Tuition: $400 This accounts for one full school year (two terms).
  • Registration Fee: $40
  • Audition Dates: Auditions are year round at the discretion of the conductor.
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NH Youth Concert Orchestra

The MCMS Concert Orchestra nurtures and inspires young string players to explore the collaborative side of their musical studies. Students develop conscientious ensemble membership by honing technical skills idiomatic to string ensemble playing and exploring sophisticated repertoire with opportunities to perform solos.

  • Scales: Be prepared to play any of the following 2 octave scales.Major: C, G, D, A, B-flat Minor: g, d, a, eRepertoire: Please prepare two (2-3 minutes each) solo pieces or excerpts from solo pieces. One should be fast and technical, the other slow and lyrical. These selections should aim to demonstrate fluency in both first and third positions, as well as proficiency using varied bow strokes and articulations. Students who have successfully auditioned for placement into the Concert Orchestra typically play selections from music of the level of Suzuki books 2 through 4.Sight Reading: Be prepared to play a sight reading excerpt provided at the time of your audition. This excerpt will focus on students’ ability to shift between first and third positions when necessary and to read key signatures with two or more accidentals.

For more information or to schedule an audition email Adam Cahalane at ensembles@mcmusicschool.org.

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Audition Required
  • Conductor: Paul Pinard
  • Ages: Youth
  • Dates: 9/16/25 - 6/6/26 Students can join anytime at the discretion of the conductor
  • Times: Tuesdays 6:00 PM - 7:15 PM
  • Tuition: $425 This accounts for one full school year (two terms).
  • Registration Fee: $40
  • Audition Dates: Auditions are year round at the discretion of the conductor.
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Youth Orchestra of New Hampshire

This string orchestra is a unique opportunity for students of traditional string programs to come together and experience high-level orchestral literature. Students will gain confidence in ensemble techniques, refine individual musicianship, and perform and collaborate with like-minded peers and mentors.

Enrollment is based on ability, experience, and a commitment to the program. Students are expected to spend a substantial amount of time practicing their music outside of rehearsals and to attend all rehearsals and concerts. Students will need the support of private lessons for the higher level ensembles, but are not required to study privately at MCMS. The ensembles prepare two concerts in January/February and May with additional performances as special events and off-site venues.

We welcome students to audition for the NH Youth Ensembles program throughout the year. Placement is dependent on openings within each ensemble.

For more information or to schedule an audition email Zeb Cruikshank at education@mcmusicschool.org.

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  • Conductor: Kurt Villiard
  • Ages: Youth - Adult
  • Rehearsal Time: Tuesdays 6:30 - 8:00 PM
  • Dates: 9/8/26 - 6/1/27 Students can join anytime at the discretion of the conductor
  • Tuition: $450 This accounts for one full school year (two terms)
  • Registration Fee: $40
  • Audition Dates: Auditions are year round at the discretion of the conductor.
Register Now

DISCLAIMER:

$40 annual registration fee per student is added to tuition cost,
maximum $80 fee per family.

Payment of this fee is NON REFUNDABLE

Snow Day Alert:

Closed Monday, February 23rd, due to winter weather. School re-opens on Tuesday the 24th for make-up classes only. NHYE rehearsals cancelled. Happy Winter Break!