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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.
This ensemble is the perfect first step to orchestral playing. Students learn how to follow a conductor and play with a string section. Together they gain an understanding of playing in tune, mastering melodic and harmonic balance, interpretation of dynamics, tempo and performance etiquette.
Ensemble repertoire is tailored to meet the needs of each player while providing the opportunity to gain experience in ensemble playing and improving individual playing skills.
Students gain an appreciation for both classical and contemporary music. Past repertoire had included works by Sibelius, Mozart, Haydn, and Beethoven.
Students in Suzuki Books 2-4 and students who have learned first position and basic note reading skills can join.
Sight Reading: Be prepared to play a sight reading excerpt provided at the time of your audition. This excerpt will be at the difficulty level of the music at the end of the first book in most string methods and will focus on rhythms using half, quarter, and eighth notes.
For more information or to schedule an audition email Ryan Striker at ensembles@mcmusicschool.org.
This ensemble challenges students to increase their collaboration and listening skills while exploring the interpretation of both classical and contemporary composers. This group will focus on developing necessary technical and expressive skills to fully prepare students for playing in a symphony orchestra or mixed ensemble setting, while creating an encouraging and supportive environment to try more advanced skills as a group.
For intermediate level players.
Repertoire: 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 Ryan Striker at ensembles@mcmusicschool.org.
The Symphony Orchestra is a full orchestra comprised of strings, winds, brass, and percussion players. This orchestra presents a unique opportunity for students of traditional band and string programs to come together and experience high-level symphonic literature. Students gain confidence in ensemble techniques, refine individual musicianship, and perform and collaborate with like-minded peers and mentors.
Repertoire: 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. Students who have successfully auditioned for placement into the Symphony Orchestra typically play selections at the difficulty level of the NH All-State auditions requirements.
Sight Reading: Be prepared to play a sight reading excerpt provided at the time of your audition. This excerpt will be from the standard canon of orchestral literature.
For more information or to schedule an audition email Ryan Striker at ensembles@mcmusicschool.org.
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.
To learn more contact Ensembles Manager, Ryan Striker at ensembles@mcmusicschool.org.
Manchester Community Music School
2291 Elm Street
Manchester, NH 03104
Photos by Carlo DiPersio