Schaumburg Youth String Ensemble
Amanda Martin, Director

The SYSE is designed to give developing students a chance to improve their playing skills both in a small group setting and as an orchestra. In addition to the large group rehearsal, students will have small group sectionals within the regular rehearsal time (schedule to be determined in the fall).  Qualifying students need to be comfortable playing in the key signatures of C, G, D, A, and F Major and possess an understanding of basic rhythmic patterns. The ensemble experience will introduce the students to a wide variety of bowing techniques and extended key signatures with emphasis on listening and working within a large ensemble. All instrumentalists should have an understanding of shifting and have some experience in third and fourth position. Cellists should be comfortable with fourth position and have an introduction to second and third position. Emphasis is placed on sight-reading skills, ensemble playing and skills related to following a conductor.

All Schaumburg Youth Orchestra members participate in their school orchestra or band program where offered.

Winter/Spring Rehearsals: Mondays, 5:30pm - 6:30pm, beginning January 5.

2025-26 Concerts:
Winter Concert - Sunday, January 11 at 3pm
Spring Concert - Sunday, May 3 at 1pm

VIDEO AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

• Video auditions are accepted on a rolling basis.

Prepare and submit scales and a brief unaccompanied solo passage of your choice.

• Scales
  • Play one of the following one-octave major scales: C, G, D, A, F
• Prepared Excerpts
  • Violin
  • Viola
  • Cello

OPEN REHEARSALS

SYSE is holding open rehearsals on Tuesday 1/6 and Tuesday 1/13. RSVP Here.

PLEASE NOTE:

• All SYO members participate in their school orchestra or band programs where available.
• Orchestra placement is at the discretion of the directors.

• Tuition includes a $25 family donation to the Prairie Center Arts Foundation.
• Installment plans, Financial Assistance, and Scholarships available.
• Families with more than one child enrolled in the program receive a $25 discount for each additional child after one child is paid in full.
• Each member receives an SYO t-shirt.