Ensembles
CMYO Program Opportunities
The Central Minnesota Youth Orchestra inspires and prepares students to become passionate leaders in their communities and school programs by being a good example through music preparation and enhancing their musical knowledge and instrumental skills.
The Guidelines are created to help parents and students work towards developing their skills for the listed ensembles. CMYO understands that each student will have strengths and weaknesses. Our goal is to place students where they will be meeting their skill level for a quality performance and be challenged to achieve new and developing skills. Returning students can re-register for the same ensemble or talk to the director about moving to another ensemble. If you have questions or concerns regarding placement, please contact us for more information.
Rehearsals: Sept - May / Fall and Spring Semesters
Though not required, it is strongly suggested that students start private lessons to continue improving their skills. Regional String Instructors
CMYO Ensembles
Prelude - Violin, Viola, Cello (beginner)
The Prelude ensemble is a first ensemble experience. Each ensemble is led by an experienced musician who will teach students on like instruments. Students will gain proficiency in instrument-specific techniques such as extensions, shifting, and bow control. In addition, students will see improvements in their sight-reading, rhythm, and ensemble playing skills. Prelude does not perform in a concert setting, but may be combined with Cadenza, allowing a performance opportunity at the discretion of the director.
Cadenza (moderate beginner)
Cadenza offers students who have been playing for about a year. The ensemble will perform in two concerts a year. Students will experience playing melody and harmony, learn about different keys and time signatures, understand the different roles within the orchestra setting, and introduce rehearsal and concert etiquette. Music selections are used to cultivate these concepts in a fun environment. The ensemble will perform in two concerts per year.
Finger Positions
Violin, Viola, Cello - I Position
Bass - I, II, III Positions
Scales - Violin
C Major 1 Octave
G Major 2 Octaves
D Major 1 Octave
Scales - Viola/Cello/Bass
C Major 1 Octave
G Major 1 Octave
D Major 1 Octave
Intermezzo (intermediate)
Intermezzo bridges between Cadenza and Encore by increasing expectations between learning the roles of performing in an ensemble and enhancing the student’s skill level. Further development and exploration of differing key signatures, more complex melodies and harmonies, vibrato, shifting, and bow articulations. The ensemble will perform at least two concerts per year.
Finger Positions
Violin & Viola: I & III comfortably
Cello: I, III, IV comfortably
Bass - I, II, III, & IV comfortably
Major Scales
C Major 1 Octave
G Major 2 Octaves
D Major 1 Octave
Scales - Viola/Cello/Bass
C - 2 octaves
G - 2 octaves
D - 2 octaves
A - 2 octaves violin, 1 octave viola, cello and bass
F - 1 octave violin and bass, 2 octaves viola and cello
Bb - 2 octaves violin and bass, 1 octave viola and cello
Eb - 1 octave violin and bass, 2 octaves viola and cello
Meets the requirements for Cadenza
Encore (advanced)
Encore is the advanced-level ensemble that has reached a skill level that is more intense with preparation and performance. Students will use critical thinking, leadership skills, and a broad understanding of musical styles. Students should consider taking private lessons at this level to help continue growth in their skills.
Encore performs in two to three program concerts, outreach performances, including school visits and holiday outreach.
With questions regarding which ensemble would best fit the student’s current skill level, please contact the instructors for more information. Though not required to participate in CMYO, it is highly recommended to take lessons with a private instructor.
Finger Positions
I & III mastered
V comfortable
II, IV, VI in development
MMEA All-State Audition Scales
Proficient at a Suzuki Book 5 and above
Meets the requirements for Cadenza & Intermezzo
Auditions
A 3-octave scale, piece that reflects your current skill level. It should include at least 1st and 3rd position. It is recommended to have 5th and 2nd, if possible.
Bow and Fingering Technique
staccato, spiccato, legato, martele, flautando, natural & fingered harmonics, pizzacato
MISSION
"To provide a unique orchestral experience leading to performances that shape, educate and inspire lives of developing youth musicians in the communities of Central Minnesota."
Copyright © 2024. All right reserved.