Chamber Music Program
Chamber Groups are small ensembles whose members play one to a part. For example, a String Quartet is made up of a first violin, second violin, viola and cello each playing a separate part in harmony with the others.
Musicians are selected for Chamber Ensembles based on instrumentation, funding and availability of coaches. The chamber groups meet for one hour either before or after the regular YOPBC orchestra rehearsals on Sunday afternoons. Each group is instructed by a designated “coach” -- a professional musician and music teacher specializing in that particular instrument or group of instruments. YOPBC has identified qualified professional musicians to work as the chamber ensemble coaches who are committed to working with their groups throughout the season.
Chamber Group
Musicians participating in the Chamber Music Program receive the added benefit of semi-private instruction for one hour each week for approximately 20 weeks during the season, and additional performance opportunities. This individualized instruction strengthens their overall ability, musicianship and therefore strengthens the other YOPBC programs including our three orchestras.
In addition to the obvious benefits of increasing the technical ability and musical discipline of the young musicians, the YOPBC Chamber Music Program positively impacts the Youth Orchestra program in other ways as well -- the Chamber Groups provide valuable public relations exposure and fundraising opportunities for the Youth Orchestra.
Small ensembles can perform in many venues where it is impossible or impractical to take a full orchestra, and YOPBC’s Chamber Groups are often seen as ambassadors of the YOPBC program, representing the Youth Orchestra at a broad range of community events for other organizations and YOPBC donors. Not only do these performances provide a valuable community service, but they can also result in increased income for YOPBC in the form of a performance fee or honorarium which help to offset the considerable expense of the chamber music program.
Chamber groups provide an excellent opportunity for young musicians to develop their musical ability and performance experience. Even more than orchestral work, chamber music places a great responsibility on the individual performers as each must study, prepare and be present to perform his or her part in order for the group to perform.
Each member of a Chamber Ensemble is a vital component to the success of that ensemble. Therefore, participation in a YOPBC Chamber Group is considered a privilege and the musicians must understand that with the many benefits of their participation comes the need for commitment and responsibility.
Click here for Chamber Music Program information & registration.