CMS offers a variety of ensembles for all ages that are designed to encourage students to expand their music skills and knowledge. Students need not be enrolled in private study at CMS to participate in an ensemble. Registration is required. Contact our Registrar for more information or to register for a class or ensemble.
Ensembles for Kids and Teens
Under the direction of CMS faculty member, Harry Oehler, the CMS Brass Ensemble is for young brass musicians looking to gain group performance experience. The group performs music written for brass groups that is customized for the age and playing level of the students involved. This ensemble is a great way for young brass students to practice listening and blending skills as well as gain invaluable experience playing in a small group setting under a professional brass player and conductor. The ensemble rehearses once a week and performs concerts throughout the year both at CMS and in the community. Members may also have the opportunity to play solo repertoire at these performance, as needed.
- Wednesdays 6:30 – 7:30 pm
- To enroll click here
Chamber music is often regarded as the most rewarding and challenging of all music literature to perform. Participation in a three to five member chamber ensemble provides fine-tuning of rhythmic, intonation, and communication skills as well as stylistic guidance from faculty coaches. Ensembles can be comprised of a wide variety of instrumental combinations. Successful chamber ensembles require a great deal of practice and compatibility between all players. For this reason, we encourage members of chamber ensembles to view it as a year-long commitment.
Please check back for updates or email us to inquire: info@cmsmusic.org
Skill Requirement:
All Strings*: Two Octave Scales up to 3 sharps and 3 flats, out of 1st position, slurred/separate, quarter note = 120.
Violin: Suzuki Book 4 & Above or equivalent repertoire level
Viola & Cello: Suzuki Book 3 & Above or equivalent repertoire level
Piano: By audition and/or teacher recommendation. Intermediate to Advance Level players, All major and minor scales, two-octaves, hands together quarter note = 80 and arpeggios
Harp & Winds: By audition and/or teacher recommendation. Intermediate to advanced students.
Ensembles meet on weekday evenings depending on group placement.
For more information or to register: info@cmsmusic.org or 610-489-3676
This ensemble will focus on a variety of musical styles. It will be a fun way for flute students to strengthen their musicality and ensemble playing skills! The Flute Ensemble is most suited for students in grades 6 and above with two years playing experience.
- Check back for updates about the next session of this class!
The Jazz Ensemble at Community Music School is for student jazz musicians ages 10+ who have at least two years of experience on their instruments. Each week will include ensemble work as well as improvisation instruction. The Jazz Ensemble will have the opportunity to perform at CMS concerts and other special events.
- Mondays 7pm
- Click here to enroll.
The Junior Chamber Ensemble is for string players Suzuki Book 2/3 and above who are interested in learning to play chamber music in mixed ensembles such as trios and quartets. Students should be enrolled in private lessons in addition to ensemble. Suzuki group students should check with their teacher to see if they are ready to move beyond Suzuki Group Class to Junior Chamber Ensemble.
- Tuesdays 6:00-6:45pm
- Please click here to enroll in this ensemble.
CMS is proud to partner with Steel River Playhouse (Pottstown, Pa) for a performance workshop. Please check back for updates on the Fall/Winter workshop!
Ensembles for Adults
Adult violin, viola, cello and double bass players are welcome to join this low-pressure, big fun group! We recommend at least 1 year of playing experience for ensemble members. CMS has a limited number of instruments available for rentals. Please call 610-489-3676 to inquire.
- Please check back for updates.
- To enroll in this ensemble, please click here.
Do you love music? Are you looking for a fun, creative way to spend time with other adults who enjoy music? Are you black and blue from kicking yourself for quitting music lessons all those years ago? If you answered yes to any of these questions, the Spring Valley Community Band is for you!
The Spring Valley Band at Community Music School is a community band program for adults who have previous instrumental experience. All band instruments are welcome–flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, trombone, French horn, baritone, tuba, and percussion.
Did you miss out on the opportunity to learn a musical instrument when you were a child? CMS offers lessons for all ages on all instruments and voice. Please contact us to inquire about lessons at 610-489-3676 or info@cmsmusic.org and we will be happy to help you take that first step on your musical path!
- Tuesdays 7:00-8:45pm Spring Valley Community Band Rehearsal
- To enroll in the ensemble, please click here