Opportunities abound for young local musicians with the Western Connecticut Youth Orchestra (WCYO) nearing the April 18 application deadline for its Charles Music Festival Summer 2022 Intensive Chamber Music Program Ives (CIMF) (August 1-5) and the Combined Chamber and Orchestra Program (August 8-14).

Applications are also being accepted for WCYO’s three main ensembles – Symphony Orchestra, String Orchestra and Wind Ensemble – for the 2022-23 school season. WCYO programs provide fun, exciting and challenging experiences for young musicians with a passion for music and performance.

The CIMF Summer Program offers budding musicians the opportunity to perform side-by-side in chamber music groups with world-class artist-teachers and in the CIMF Orchestra led by WCYO Music Director, Eric Mahl. Additionally, there is a dynamic opportunity for young composers to workshop an original composition as part of the program. CIMF artist-teachers hold positions in major American orchestras, lead renowned chamber ensembles, and perform on Broadway.

The two-week festival will take place from August 1-14 at the beautiful Wooster School campus on the border between Ridgefield and Danbury and will feature several concerts. Auditions are mandatory and will take place in person on April 24 in Ridgefield, or via video submission. For more details, click here to view the digital brochure or visit the Charles Ives Music Festival. The application deadline is Monday, April 18, 2022 for the summer program.

WCYO’s core curriculum includes three sets for musicians in grades 5-12 and an audition is required to participate. Rehearsals are held Thursday nights in Ridgefield, CT throughout the school year and follow the Ridgefield Public Schools holiday schedule. The fall, winter, and spring seasons each conclude with a concert at area venues such as Ridgefield High School’s Anne S. Richardson Auditorium, Wilton High School’s Clune Auditorium, and the Visual & Performing Arts Center at Western Connecticut State University.

The WCYO experience is designed to develop artistry and technique, as well as a deep understanding and appreciation of instrumental music. Our members are challenged not only to perform at the highest level, but also to develop their character, creativity and self-esteem, with music as their guide. Other opportunities include an annual retreat, community service performances, a concerto competition, and CIMF’s chamber music program. Modest annual tuition and auditions are required, with financial aid and scholarships available to qualified musicians in all WCYO programs through the support of its generous community partners. Additionally, WCYO Families and its Board of Trustees provide a $1,000 scholarship to a senior graduate each year.

The WCYO Symphony Orchestra is a full symphony orchestra comprised of advanced string, wind, brass and percussion musicians ages 13-18. The String Orchestra is an intermediate string ensemble for middle school and early high school musicians. The Wind Ensemble is made up of middle and high school wind, brass and percussion musicians.

The audition requirements and application are available on the WCYO website at wctyo.org/auditions. Young musicians interested in auditioning should review the requirements with their private music teacher and contact WCYO via email at [email protected] with any questions.

Western Connecticut Youth Orchestra is based in Ridgefield, CT and is celebrating its 20th season serving young musicians from over 20 cities in the surrounding Connecticut and New York communities. To learn more about WCYO, please visit wctyo.org or call 203-894-8786.