Bard College’s Conservatory of Music is creating a new Preparatory Orchestra for young and would-be school-age musicians.
The Conservatory’s Preparatory Division will hold an open house for those interested in participating Saturday, Jan. 12, from 10am to noon in the Avery/Blum Building on the Bard campus.
Rehearsals will take place on Saturday afternoons from Feb. 2 through May 11. The program will include full orchestra and sectional rehearsals, led by members of the Preparatory Division faculty, and plans are in the works to feature junior and senior divisions as well. Additional benefits include the opportunity to participate in public performances at Bard College, and free admission to many Bard Conservatory events.
Young musicians between the ages of 8 and 18 who have at least one year of playing experience are invited to participate in the orchestra, and interested students younger than 8 or with less than one year of experience may participate with approval from the directors.
“An orchestral experience shouldn’t be intimidating,” said Kathryn Aldous, director of the Bard Preparatory Orchestra, in a university news release. “One of the reasons that I am a professional violinist is that, as soon as I could , I had the opportunity to be in an orchestra. I just think that’s what playing the violin is all about. If a player doesn’t have a lot of experience, I can write them an easy part, and equally, if they are very talented, I am happy to showcase them.”
Early tuition is $130; $65 for currently enrolled Prep students. After Jan. 12, tuition will be $160.
For more information contact Conservatory Preparatory Division co-director Ryan Kamm at bardprep@bard.edu or call 615 498-4996, or go to bard.edu/conservatory/preparatory/orchestra.
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