Chamber music compositions are written for two to nine players, all having their own individual parts.

There are two types of orchestras: a chamber orchestra comprising of approximately 20-30 members and a symphonic orchestra comprising of approximately 60 to 90 members. Orchestras have many musicians (mainly strings) that play in sections or groups that have the same part. Orchestras also have a full wind section including flutes, clarinets, bassoons, oboes, contra-bassoon, trumpets, french horns, trombones, tuba and percussion.

Chamber groups use the same instruments but to a smaller degree and each musician has their own individual part.

In chamber music, each individual musician is exposed and holds complete responsibility for his/her own part. The musician also learns the value of teamwork by being prepared collectively with the other members of the group.

Chamber music allows the musician to have the best of both worlds: solo and orchestral but all in one small chamber group. As the musician is the only one on his/her part, it reinforces soloistic qualities yet playing together as a team strengthens a sense of togetherness as if performing in an orchestra.

No. Musicians lead and follow each other and work together as a team.

A coaching is when a professional musician works with and advises the student musicians in their various chamber ensembles. The professional is their teacher (coach) for that particular session of instruction.

Advanced & Intermediate students will meet 7 times per semester - 5 times will be with a coach, 2 times will be by themselves to apply what coaches have recommended.

Elementary students will meet 5 times per semester.

Refer to current schedule.

Younger students at a beginning level meet for 30-40 minutes every other week totaling 5 weeks with a dress rehearsal and a recital at the end of each semester.

Students who are at an intermediate level will be scheduled in two groups that amount to approximately 45-60 minutes and will meet seven weeks with a dress rehearsal and a recital at the end of each semester.

Advanced students will meet for 65-80 minutes for seven weeks with a dress rehearsal and a recital at the end of each semester.

Students must be able to read music at their specific level.

There is no specific age limit.

All instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, flute, clarinet, bassoon, oboe, trumpet, french horn, trombone, tuba, percussion, piano, harp

Not as common: saxophone, contra-bassoon, bass clarinet

All levels meet Sundays 12:30 pm - 7:30 pm.

For those students who are participating in the Schaumburg Youth Orchestra program, there will be no conflicts with orchestra rehearsals.

Yes.

Students will receive their packet at the beginning of the semester with a selection of music. The director will advise the students to prepare one or two of these selections for their first coaching.

Students' responsibilities are to listen to the repertoire and become familiar with their parts so they are able to get the most out of their coachings. Since every student is at a different level, amounts of practicing may vary for each individual student.

Rather then to specify an exact amount of minutes designated to practicing, it is best to make practicing and listening part of their weekly goals.

There are 2 semesters for the chamber music program:

• Fall: September to late November
• Spring: Mid- February to late April

Yes. There is a day set aside for a chamber music recital which occurs at the end of each semester. (See Schedule)

There will be a dress rehearsal on the day of the recital prior to the recital.

One Semester (Fall or Spring)
Beginner (30-40 Minute Session): $155
Intermediate (45-60 Minute Session): $215
Advanced (65-75 Minute Session): $265

Both Fall and Spring Semesters
Beginner (30-40 Min): $300
Intermediate (45-60 Min): $420
Advanced (65-80 Min): $520

There will be no refunds.

Financial Assistance available.

Cash or Checks payable to the Village of Schaumburg are accepted.

Online payment by credit card also available.

Fill in the registration form. You will be contacted for a hearing placement. Once you are in the program, you will not have to audition again, unless you wish to be heard again.