Chamber Music Program Handbook

Welcome to the Chamber Music Program!

Chamber music is one of the most rewarding ways to make music: it challenges you to listen, lead, and collaborate while developing independence and responsibility.

GTCYS chamber musicians receive ongoing coaching and rehearsal opportunities, allowing you to grow as both an individual and an ensemble member over time. We look forward to hearing your progress and celebrating your performances throughout the season!

Rehearsals

Weekly Schedule: Subscribe to your orchestra’s calendar for full list of dates

• Concertino West: Mondays, 5:30–6:30pm, Good Samaritan United Methodist Church, Edina
• Concertino East: Thursdays, 5:30–6:30pm, Gustavus Lutheran Church, St. Paul
• Camerata Con Brio: Tuesdays, 5:45–6:45pm, Wooddale Church, Edina
• Camerata Vivace: Thursdays, 5:45–6:45pm, House of Hope, St. Paul
• Concert Orchestra: Mondays, 5:30–6:30pm, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Minneapolis
• Philharmonic: Tuesdays, 5:30–6:30pm , Westminster Presbyterian Church, Minneapolis

What to bring:

• Instrument and accessories
• Music stand
• GTCYS-provided chamber music/books
• Sharpened pencil with eraser for marking music

Chamber Music Expectations

• Follow all GTCYS Musician Handbook policies
• Attend rehearsals, arrive on time, and come prepared
• Contribute positively to your group
• Support teamwork and inclusivity

Attendance Policy

• Absence allowance:

• •  Fall semester (Oct–Dec): 1 absence
  •  Spring semester (Jan–May): 1 absence

• If you must miss a rehearsal:

• • Submit the Absence Form for your orchestra
  • You are responsible for notifying your ensemble members of your absence

• Exceeding Absence Limits: GTCYS Staff and coach will review participation and determine next steps.
• Full-group cancellation of rehearsal: Must be approved by GTCYS staff at least 24 hours in advance.
• Weather: Assume rehearsals are on unless notified by email and calendar update.

Performances

• Concertino East: Saturday, February 28
• Concertino West: Sunday, March 8
• Camerata Con Brio & Camerata Vivace: Saturday, April 25
• Concert Orchestra and Philharmonic: Community performance opportunities may be offered when your group is ready

Program Cost

• Concertino & Camerata (Strings): $400 – 16 coaching sessions
• Concert Orchestra & Philharmonic (Winds/Brass): $250 – 16 sessions (8 coaching sessions + 8 student-led rehearsals)
• Financial assistance available; $20 registration fee required
• Refunds: No refunds after the second rehearsal.

Questions?
For all chamber music questions, please email
Dan Mollick, Community Engagement Liaison at dan@gtcys.org