Claremont Community Youth Orchestra

Description:

The Claremont Community Youth Orchestra, is a conducted, mixed-level youth ensemble for young classical musicians roughly ages 10–20, focused on the joy of playing with others their age, growing musically, and sharing beautiful music in a supportive setting. We aim to create a place where musicians of **all levels** can participate meaningfully in playing beautiful classical repertoire in a focused group setting.

This setting is for young musicians who take their music studies seriously, but are looking for a more flexible and welcoming alternative to a highly intensive or competitive youth orchestra program. Our focus is on enjoying, playing and sharing orchestral music together, in a way that every player can belong and contribute.

We welcome musicians of all levels, from Method Book One to advanced students looking for a more relaxed and community focused, but still serious orchestral ensemble. We especially want to create a classical experience for older beginners and mid-level players who don’t fit well into traditional youth orchestra pathways.

We are looking for students who play any traditional orchestral instrument, including strings, winds, brass, and limited percussion. Keyboard instruments will not be included in this session.

Unlike many traditional music settings, students at CCYO are not separated according to skill level; rather, everyone plays together. This way, we can learn from each other and all have a meaningful part to play in the music.

We strive to create an inclusive environment where each individual is known, included, and feels seen and valued, while recognizing that part of the joy of playing in an orchestra is working together as one large instrument under the conductor.

Musical parts will be arranged and adapted for each player’s level. Beginners can play real repertoire with peers, even early in their musical journey, and more advanced students can enjoy the challenge of playing classical music. The arrangements will be made with the goal of staying reasonably true to the character and message of the original music while giving each student a meaningful part they can play successfully.

The repertoire will be chosen to be beautiful, expressive, and fun, while remaining manageable for mixed-level musicians. It may range from early classical works to later and contemporary composers who write in a melodic, passionate, or heartwarming style. The exact selections will depend on the instruments and playing levels of the students who enroll.

If you want to play and share serious and beautiful classical music for the joy of it, while having fun with other passionate young musicians, we invite you to come shine with us!

Here are the dates and details for the Autumn session.

Dates & Enrollment:
For this first pilot, we expect approximately 5–15 players.
Minimum enrollment is five students
Enrollment deadline is August 17th

There will be 8 weekly rehearsals on Thursday evenings from 6:30 – 8:00 pm beginning September 17th. The session will culminate in a short concert for family and community, date TBD.

The ensemble will be conducted by Ruth Bassette.

If enrollment is smaller than expected but the instrumentation is workable, the pilot may proceed in a chamber-ensemble format.
Program Fee:

The program fee covers all eight rehearsals and the final concert. This fee is to cover for rent of the rehearsal space, buying music, and for advertising/printing and similar miscellaneous needs.

Standard rate: $80 per student
Sibling discount: 15% for each additional child from the same family

If tuition is a concern please reach out to us. Scholarships, reduced rates and payment plans are available. We believe that all interested students should be able to participate, regardless of budget!