The Chamber Orchestra is a thirty-member strong string orchestra that teaches students about orchestra playing in a more intimate setting. Each semester, there are numerous readings focusing on a specific historic period, exploring the performance practice and style.

In addition, part of the program is focused on audition preparation, and two mock auditions are held each semester. Students are thus introduced to a wide variety of orchestral excerpts in the course of a four-year degree, preparing them to be successful in summer festival and professional auditions.

The orchestra performs two concerts annually, sometimes combining with a small wind section to explore small ensemble literature (this year, Bartok, Rumanian Dances).

Listen to samples from our concerts:

• February 2008: Piazzola's Four Seasons of Buenos Aires with violinist Sarah Pratt, mvmt 1, sample 1
• February 2008: Golijov's Last Round,sample 1
• April 2005: Stravinsky's Dumbarton Oaks, mvmt 1, sample 1