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CSA offers a graded note reading orchestra program to introduce the fundamentals of orchestral playing, strengthen student’s sight-reading skills, and to provide a foundation in music theory and improvisation. CSA uses the Creative Ability Development (CAD) improvisation method endorsed by Dr. Suzuki.
Reading I/Theory and CAD
Reading II/Theory and CAD
Advanced Reading/Theory and CAD
Intermediate to Advanced Students
Intermediate and advanced string and piano students enrolled in CSA private lessons who wish to enhance their music study by performing standard repertoire in a trio, quartet, or other small ensemble may participate in the Chamber Ensemble Program. Performing as part of a chamber group inspires musicality, develops advanced listening and rhythmic skills, and provides a venue for collaboration and fun! Students are assigned to an ensemble based on private teacher recommendation and a placement audition. CSA chamber ensembles range from first-time chamber students to groups that stay together for years and participate in masterclasses, workshops, and outside performances. Past performances include Cantigny Mansion, student-sponsored fundraisers, nursing homes, and Yorktown Mall.
Email csa@wheaton.edu to book a chamber ensemble for your next event!
Click Chamber Information and Registration Packet (pdf) for Chamber Program parent packet.
Vivace! is a performing ensemble featuring violin and viola students from elementary through high school. Vivace's repertoire includes both classical and popular selections from around the world, under the direction of CSA instructors Sarah Lindquist and Christopher Pettit. Recent performances include the Steve Cochran Show on WGN Radio; Dickens of a Christmas Stroll at Ivy, Downtown Wheaton; Celebrate the Season at Cantigny; Yorktown Mall; Wheaton Park District's Week of the Young Child kick-off event; Taste of Wheaton; Wheaton Town Square Frosty Fest; and Community School of the Arts Suzuki Concerto Concert.
Participation by audition. Email csa@wheaton.edu for booking inquiries.
$185 | Required Materials Fee $18
Encore Advanced Chamber Ensembles are auditioned chamber groups featuring top students from the CSA. Encore ensembles include trios, quartets, and quintets. Encore students participate in masterclasses, workshops, competitions, and special outreach performances. Upcoming performances include student-initiated fundraisers for non-profits, masterclasses with college faculty, Cantigny Mansion, and the CSA Suzuki Concerto Concert.
Groups formed by audition only. Email csa.wheaton.edu to book an Encore string quartet for your next event!
The CSA Wheaton Cello Choir is an ensemble of 12-24 advanced cello students. Members range in age from 11 to 18 and come from DuPage, Cook and Kane counties. The choir was formed in 1989 under the direction of Carol Ourada and rehearses weekly on Saturday mornings. The group performs locally and nationally at community events, church services and music conferences. The choir has provided preconcert music for the Wheaton College Artist Series and worked in collaboration with other cello choirs in Minnesota and the Chicago area. Recent performances include preconcert music at the Wheaton College Grand Celebration for the new Concert Hall in Armerding Center for Music and the Arts on the Wheaton College campus. Email csa@wheaton.edu for booking inquiries.