Charleston Symphony broadens education offerings with new Youth String Ensemble
March 25, 2019
Today the Charleston Symphony announced the addition of a new initiative related to its already robust education and community engagement programs, the Charleston Symphony Youth Strings Ensemble (CSYS). The program will launch at the beginning of the CSO’s 2019-2020 season.
The CSYS will serve as a bridge to the Charleston Symphony Youth Orchestra (CSYO), designed to help younger string musicians sharpen their ensemble skills and prepare for the demands of playing in a symphony full orchestra. CSO Executive Director Michael Smith expressed his excitement for the new program, saying, “The CSO believes that the study of music is a fundamental component of any complete education, especially for young students, and we feel compelled to provide this service to our community. This initiative will further our reach and strengthen the benefits of education through music.”
The CSYS is open to students grades 5-9. Young musicians studying string instruments who have a good command of basic technique, strong posture, and the ability to read music are invited to apply. Students outside this age range who wish to audition will be considered on a case by case basis. Need-based scholarships will be available.
The CSYS will rehearse weekly on Sundays at the Charleston County School of the Arts from 2:30pm-4:30pm. Auditions will be held at the Allegro Charter School of Music on May 11.
The Charleston Symphony has launched a search for a CSYS conductor. Interested candidates are invited to apply on the CSO website. Deadline to apply is April 5th, 2019. Conductor auditions will be held on April 14th.
About the CSO
This year, the Charleston Symphony Orchestra will enter its 83rd season of providing superior musical performances to the area. Founded in 1936, the CSO is the cornerstone of Charleston’s arts scene, performing at the Gaillard Center and throughout the tri-county region. Employing 24 full-time musicians and 14 full-time staff, the CSO also participates in numerous community engagement events, special concerts, and school programs throughout South Carolina.
