This month many young residents of Douglas County will be released from the confines of the classroom to enjoy the long, hot days of summer. Offered by various local organizations students can participate in sports, art, theater, and even bowling leagues to combat boredom during their break.
This summer a new event is in town for young musicians who want to experience something inspiring, or who simply need an excuse to practice their instruments during the summer. In support of school music programs and private teachers, Colorado Classical llc. is offering the Castle Rock Youth Festival Orchestra for string musicians in the Douglas and Jefferson County area.
Unlike the Douglas County Youth Orchestra, a wonderful audition based organization geared towards more advanced students, the Castle Rock Youth Festival Orchestra is open to all string musicians ages 6 - 20 including beginners with 4-6 months of experience and those who are more advanced. Students new to the art will be offered modified music and will have older, more experienced musicians to look up to as they perform the same selection together.
After a summer of weekly intensive, fun, and educational rehearsals the orchestra will perform a free public concert at the Grange Cultural Arts Center on August 8th at 7pm.
In addition to this opportunity afforded to violin, viola, cello, and bass students one interested participant will be selected to conduct a simple piece during the rehearsals and in concert. The chosen 'Student Conductor' will receive a baton and one hour of private coaching in conducting; no prior experience is required!
The program is designed to inspire young musicians, foster friendships, and encourage practicing during the summer months when it's easy to forget about that instrument sitting in its case. It is being conducted by Chris Jiles of Colorado Classical llc., a noted string educator who is passionate about classical music and children's education.
Registration is ongoing and closes on June 9th. There are 8 Monday morning rehearsals starting June 2nd that will be spaced out through August 4th to accommodate practicing and vacation schedules. Students (not including the student conductor or section principles) may miss up to 4 rehearsals which will be held at the Grange Cultural Arts Center in the Meadows at Castle Rock.
Tuition for the festival orchestra $110.00, which is less than $10.00 per hour and includes the entire program and an ice cream social. Some financial assistance is available on request.
For more information, or to register a student for the ensemble please visit www.ColoradoClassical.com or call 303.955.4357.