Playing chamber music is one of the highest forms of music making, requiring each participant to concentrate and perform independently, while maintaining an awareness of and sensitivity to the other players in the ensemble. CCMC offers chamber music coaching for strings and mixed ensembles of students at intermediate and advanced levels.
Crowden Chamber Strings participants develop and strengthen ensemble- playing skills through the study of standard string orchestra and chamber music literature. For string players with advanced reading and technical skills. Audition required.
In this ensemble for mixed strings, students work on following a conductor, counting, playing as a group, intonation, bowing, and phrasing. Repertoire includes beginning-level arrangements of standard string repertoire. Intended for violin, viola, cello, and bass students who have facility with basic shifting and bowing techniques. Note-reading skills are expected, and students are required to study privately with a teacher of their choice. Audition required.
Meet other homeschool students and make music together! This program is for homeschooled string players with at least six months of experience and who currently study with a private teacher. Bring a short piece to play for the ensemble placement auditions, which occur on the first day.
An introduction to the basic skills required for ensemble playing, including listening, following directions, and cooperation among fellow players. Intended for students with at least one year of study on their chosen instruments; students are expected to study privately with a teacher of their choice in conjunction with the class. Session culminates in an informal class performance. Placement interview or teacher recommendation required.
Students gain a basic knowledge of the violin or cello within a fun group setting. Students must bring their own instruments and are expected to maintain daily home practice. Families are responsible for the purchase of class materials and books as specified by the teacher.
The Suzuki program is intended for families who are committed to pursuing instrument study as a central activity in their family life. The cornerstone of the Suzuki program at Crowden is the creation of a cooperative relationship between teacher, parent, and student. Parents take an active role in the educational process by attending all lessons and classes, and by practicing daily with their children at home.
We offer two string orchestras as training preparation to play in the larger Symphonic Orchestras: Intermezzo Strings and Prelude Strings. Visit our website to learn about rehearsal locations and audition requirements.
The Philharmonic Orchestra is the premier orchestra of the San Jose Youth Symphony. The newly formed Chamber Orchestra is for musicians of high school age at the advanced musical level. Rehearsals will focus on the full orchestra as well as small chamber music groups coached by professional musicians. The Concert Orchestra provides intermediate musicians the opportunity to learn rehearsal techniques and performance practices in a full orchestra setting. Visit our website for information on rehearsal locations and audition requirements.