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 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 acheive 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

CMYO Ensembles

Prelude - Violin, Viola, Cello

The Prelude ensemble is a like-instrument ensemble. 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.

Cadenza

Cadenza offers students who have been playing for about a year, the opportunity to start performing in an ensemble setting. Students will experience playing melody and harmony, learn about different key 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.

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

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. Though not required to participate in CMYO, it is highly recommended to take lessons with a private instructor.

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

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. If for financial reasons you cannot afford lessons, please contact the artistic director for suggestions.

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