String Studios at Central
Bass Studio Cello Studio Viola Studio Violin Studio
Central Washington University is home to a spirited music community where each student’s unique blend of gifts is encouraged by our supportive faculty. With many performance opportunities, students refine their skills as soloists, chamber and orchestral musicians, while also having the freedom to experiment in alternative styles. The mission of the Central Washington University string/orchestra program is to provide a supportive yet challenging environment in which students can develop as artists.
Traditional participation in string quartets, piano trios, symphonic and chamber orchestras, as well as numerous solo opportunities is supplemented with more innovative approaches of incorporating music into the fabric of everyday life. The symphony and chamber orchestras deliver inspiring performances to enthusiastic audiences. The Kairos Chamber Ensemble in residence heads the string department's award-winning chamber music program. Come join our friendly, challenging team!
Performance Opportunities
Studio Class
Bi-weekly string studio classes give students repeated chances to perform for each other, and receive positive feedback and constructive comments.
Convocation/Recital Hour
On alternate weeks, the entire student body of the music department gathers in the Music Concert Hall to listen to student performances. Performing for several hundred of your peers is an excellent opportunity.
Central Washington University is truly a special place. I had access to some of the most amazing teachers and performance halls that I could have asked for coming out of high school. The faculty are incredibly knowledgeable and they genuinely care about their students' progress and experience. The atmosphere is something unlike any other school - there's a true sense of community, friendship, and support from teachers and fellow students. I would not have changed a single thing about my time at CWU and will always cherish that special time in my life!
String Studio Recitals
Each quarter the string studio presents a concert featuring polished performances by individual string students and chamber ensembles.
Recitals
In addition to required Junior and Senior Recitals, students are encouraged to present additional joint or solo recitals.
Studio Projects
Each quarter, string students are encouraged to give a performance presentation outside of the music department. This project helps students develop verbal communication skills, offer community service and practice adapting to different types of audiences.
Farrell Projects
Many continuing string students have utilized this project supporting scholarship grant to present a variety of concert performances--pure improvisation, Baroque dance music, Beethoven Violin Sonatas and Hungarian gypsy music. After their first year, music students maintaining a specified grade point are eligible to apply for a Farrell Merit Scholarship that covers project expenses.
Concerto/Aria Competition
Bi-annual music department contest where a half or dozen or so students win the opportunity to perform with the University Orchestra in concert.
Classics in Ellensburg Series
Regional and National Competitions and Festivals
The professors at Central are truly exceptional -- they challenge you to expand your musical horizons and perception of sound more than you can imagine.