Junior High Programs

For students grades 7 – 9

Junior High Bands – session 2 and session 3

Designed for junior high students who play wind and percussion instruments, the primary focus of this program is developing individual musicianship through a large ensemble setting. Students will audition and be placed in either the Symphonic Band or the Concert Band. Classes include full ensemble and sectional rehearsals, masterclasses, and elective courses. A small number of brass, woodwind and percussion players will be selected to perform with the Junior Orchestra during session 2 (June 21 – 27).

Junior High Chorus – session 3 only

Designed for junior high vocalists, the primary focus of this program is developing individual musicianship through a choral ensemble setting. Classes include full ensemble and sectional rehearsals, music theory and appreciation, group voice lessons, conducting, and musicianship. Sopranos: apply as early as possible as enrollment is limited.

Director:

Junior High Jazz – session 3 only

Designed for junior high students, the primary focus of this program is developing individual musicianship through a big band setting. Students will audition and be placed in one of two big bands, and a few students will be selected for small jazz combos. Classes include big band and sectional rehearsals, improvisation, combo instruction, masterclasses, listening seminar, and study of individual instrument technique. The final concert will feature both big bands and one or two jazz combos.

Qualifications: Prior experience performing in a jazz ensemble is not required, however, only students with 3 or more years of playing experience will be accepted.
Saxophonists: Space is limited, so apply early!

Program Coordinator:
Chip McNeill, University of Illinois

Junior High Orchestras – session 2 only

Designed for junior high string students, the primary focus of this program is developing individual musicianship through a large ensemble setting. Students will audition and be placed in either the Junior Orchestra or Junior Strings. Classes include full ensemble and sectional rehearsals, masterclasses, and elective courses. A small number of wind, brass, and percussion players will perform with the Junior Orchestra.

Director:
Dr. Louis Bergonzi, University of Illinois

Junior High Piano

Designed for junior high pianists at intermediate or advanced levels of performance. Classes include private lessons, development of individual artistry, and elective classes including: ensemble music, accompanying and beginning jazz improvisation. Recitals, topic classes, and master classes complete the curriculum. Practice time is available on grand pianos in state-of-the-art facilities.

Program Coordinator:
Reid Alexander, University of Illinois

Audition requirements: On the first day, play two contrasting, memorized pieces and sight-read early to intermediate level material. This helps determine placement in lessons and musicianship classes.  Though the audition requirements are the same for junior piano and intermediate piano, the repertoire should be chosen based on the student’s ability.