We welcome kids, teens, and adults (at all levels – even beginners!) to join the chamber music program at Powers. You’ll play some amazing pieces that are only possible with a group. You’ll grow as a musician, of course. And you’ll also gain skills that are important in any aspect of life – communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and more.
Chamber music is open to strings, woodwinds, brass, and piano, and can be as small as a duo or as large as 9 musicians! You’ll receive weekly chamber music coaching from Powers Music School Faculty members, and perform in a final concert each semester. To ensure the best fit for each ensemble, a placement audition is required. This process allows us to place you in a group that best matches your skill level and musical interests.
Youth Chamber Music Program
If your child’s teacher mentioned that an ensemble would be a good fit, then we definitely recommend that you give it a try! Even beginning students can feel comfortable in a group of new friends, with the support of an expert coach to guide the way.
We know kids are busy these days, so chamber music schedules are determined by coach and student availability. Committing to the program for a full academic year means that you’ll see more consistent growth and development, both musically and personally. Scroll down to see some of the benefits your child gains by participating in chamber music!
Adult Chamber Music Program
Many of our adult students are picking up an instrument they’ve had lying around, or are interested in learning to play music they’re curious about. For that reason, you might wonder if you’ll fit in with other adults of varying interests and levels.
The answer is yes! Our faculty coaches are great at helping you gain the skills you’ll need to play those new pieces with confidence. You’ll think and talk about the piece together, and have a say in how to make the music sound its best. Because the program runs full-year, you’ll have time to work through challenging sections, learn to communicate effectively as a group, and make sure each member feels supported and valued.
The Benefits of Chamber Music
We think the best part is experiencing the beautiful music you’ll create together. There’s nothing like feeling the emotion of a powerful piece with others who feel the same. But you’ll also…
- Enhance Your Musical Skills – Refine your technical proficiency and musicality, improve your sight-reading, intonation, and rhythm, and deepen your understanding of various musical styles.
- Learn to Listen and Communicate – In chamber music, every voice matters. Learn to actively listen, be open-minded, and communicate non-verbally with peers, respond to each other’s cues, and be a key player in a group (especially if you play piano!).
- Build Teamwork and Leadership – At Powers, we strive to create a kind, encouraging environment for everyone to feel heard and valued. With support from your coach and group members, you’ll learn to think critically, problem-solve, and step out of your comfort zone. Each member plays a crucial role (whether leading or supporting) as your bring your individual talents together to help the group succeed.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or brand new to chamber music, our program is designed to help you grow, connect, and create beautiful music together.
Placement Auditions for the 2024-2025 Year
Placement auditions for the chamber music program will be held in person or by submitting a recording. Students new to the chamber music program as well as returning/continuing chamber music students from the previous year at Powers should both attend a placement audition to ensure the best fit.
Live Audition Requirements:
- 1 Scale (Any major or minor scale of your choice)
- 1 Solo piece (traditional classical music only)
- Sight-Reading
Recording Audition Requirements:
- 1 Scale (Any major or minor scale of your choice)
- 2 contrasting movements of a piece or 2 contrasting pieces (e.g, 1 fast and technical
piece and 1 slow and lyrical piece)
Audition Dates:
- Saturday, June 8th, 5:00 – 7:00 PM (in person)
- Wednesday, June 12th, 6:30 – 8:30 PM (in person)
- Monday, August 19th, 4:30 – 6:30 PM (in person)
- Ongoing, by submitting a recording online
Audition sign-up process:
Please read our audition requirements below to prepare for your audition, then complete a chamber music interest form.
Once we have received your audition form (and you have scheduled your live audition time slot, if applicable), our Director of Chamber Music, Dr. Hyun Min Lee, will reach out to you about the details of your audition.
Registration:
After your audition, please scroll down to complete your registration and tuition payment within two weeks. Your payment will include the $20 registration fee and full tuition for the full-year chamber music program unless a payment plan has been arranged. For those auditioning after the fiscal year has begun, tuition will be prorated.