STEPPING-STONE CONCEPT

Civic Youth Orchestra sees the sequence of orchestras as progressive and expects students to advance from one level to the next. Each ensemble studies and performs music suitable to its current level. Auditions for initial admission and moving to a more advanced ensemble are held twice a year. As students progress, the staff works to ensure that each child is provided with a challenging and satisfying ensemble experience. Each conductor determines placement and seating in an ensemble. Progress is assessed regularly and students are seated so that the ensemble experience will be challenging and satisfying.

INITIAL PLACEMENT

Initial placement in an ensemble will be decided based on the student's capabilities. Usually, students have studied privately for two years before auditioning for a CYO ensemble. It is also encouraged that the student is currently enrolled in a school music ensemble if available. CYO believes that students benefit from the variety provided by diverse ensemble instructors. CYO students receive excellent instruction from school band and orchestra directors and participation in the school music program is augmented by the CYO experience.