The Community School of Performing Arts offers traditional and Suzuki Method instruction for cello starting at age five. Learn from our renowned faculty in personalized lessons.
To begin the process for individual lessons, please submit an inquiry form.
For students seeking performance experience, the Community School offers chamber and orchestral groups designed to develop and refine a student’s skills.
Ages 13–18
Colburn Sinfonietta is a mid-sized ensemble of the Community School. This ensemble combines winds and strings to play works by composers, such as Beethoven and Haydn. The Colburn Sinfonietta accepts students 13–18 years old.
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Colburn Youth Orchestra is the largest advanced ensemble of the Community School. This is a full symphonic orchestra with strings, winds, brass, and percussion. The Colburn Youth Orchestra accepts students 13–18 years old.
The Ed and Mari Edelman Chamber Music Institute offers one of the most comprehensive and intense pre-college level chamber music learning experiences of any music school in North America. Students are coached weekly by members of Colburn’s acclaimed faculty.
Age minimum: fifth grade or 10 years old by September 1
The String Ensemble is made up of nearly 30 violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. Students in the ensemble will focus on development of orchestral performance techniques, musicianship, sight-reading, and ensemble skills. Repertoire is in the intermediate range.
Age minimum: sixth grade or 11 years old by September 1
The String Orchestra is made up of nearly 30 violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Musicians in the String Orchestra have achieved a level of intermediate or advanced musicianship and can tackle the challenge of a more intricate repertoire. Featured composers often include Corelli, Handel, Mozart, Holst, and Richard Meyer.
The Suzuki Strings Program is directed by Program & Violin Coordinator, Rumi Shimasaki, and Cello Coordinator, Nancy Yamagata, who represent a highly trained faculty with many years of teaching experience.
Suzuki study focuses on developing the ear alongside the technical aspects of string playing and note reading is taught once posture and position are well established. Weekly group classes supplement the private lesson by providing community and the reinforcement of musical skills. In addition to solo recitals, Suzuki string students present group concerts twice yearly in Colburn’s Zipper Hall.
Children ages four through seven may begin study when they display a readiness to accept instruction. Please visit Frequently Asked Questions below to learn more about the Suzuki Strings Program for violin and cello.