Cello Choir

The Cello Choir, designed for both Suzuki and traditional cello students, is the entry level ensemble for the Community School of Performing Arts pre-college orchestra program. Emphasis is placed on reinforcing reading skills, refining ensemble playing, and introducing orchestral performance techniques, such as learning to follow a conductor and how to read and mark a music score.

All new and returning students must audition for placement.

Duration

Weekly on Wednesdays, 7:00 – 7:50 pm

Prerequisites

Participants must study privately and are required to have finished Joanne Martin, I Can Read Music, Volume 1 (or an equivalent reading book) prior to audition. No previous orchestral experience is necessary.

Minimum Age Requirement

3rd grade; must be eight years old by September 1, 2026

Recommended Minimum Level of Playing

Scherzo by Webster (Suzuki Vol. 3)

Audition Information

In-person auditions for the 2026–2027 academic year will be held on Saturday June 6, 2026. Upon completion of the application form, a link will be provided to schedule an audition time.

Cello Choir Application
The application deadline has passed. If you are still interested in applying for this ensemble, please contact Rachel Gauntlett at rgauntlett@colburnschool.edu
Please prepare the audition requirements listed below:
Audition Requirements
    1. Two scales. A two-octave G Major scale AND a two-octave D Major scale. The scales should be memorized and played slurred, 2 quarter notes per bow at a moderate tempo. (Quarter note = 72)
    2. A polished solo piece. Choose 2 to 3 minutes that represent your technical skill and musicianship.
    3. Audition excerpt. Budapesto, C. Cheney – play bracketed portion only.
    4. Sight Reading. A series of sight-reading examples will be presented at your audition.

Audition Excerpts

In-person auditions for the 2026-27 academic year will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026. Upon completion of this form, you will receive a confirmation email containing a link to schedule an audition time.

Audition results will be sent via email by midnight on June 15, 2026.

Cello Choir Application Form

Cello Choir Application Form