BKCM Youth Orchestras

Ages: 7-18

Type: Instrumental

Term: Annual

Duration: 28 Weeks, beginning September 8th

Price:  $1120 / $560 with private lessons

Instructors: 

Dive into the Joys of Orchestral Playing!

Open to all violin, viola, cello and bass students by audition, the BKCM Youth Orchestras offer both beginning and intermediate instrumentalists a robust, immersive and fun introduction to the world of orchestral music and performance. Through a diverse repertoire that ranges from from standard string orchestral pieces to classical and pop, students expand their sight-reading skills learning follow a conductor and honing the core skills of playing together and listening to one another. 

OUR ORCHESTRAS
CONCERTS & PERFORMANCE
SCHEDULE AN AUDITION

OUR YOUTH ORCHESTRAS

STRING ENSEMBLE

Ages 7-14 • Sundays, 12:30-1:30 • Led by Aaron Van Heyningen

Perfect for the beginning or intermediate reader with at least three years of study on their instrument, the intro-level String Ensemble teaches the essential skills of orchestral playing. Students build confidence and have fun playing in harmony, following a conductor, and reading simple yet exciting melodies and rhythms. The goal is for every student to feel successful and inspired, whether or not they have prior orchestral experience!

STRING ORCHESTRA

Ages 10-18 • Sundays, 12:30-1:30 • Led by Luis Mercado

Our String Orchestra is perfect for students with at least 5-6 years of study on their instrument and several years of experience playing in an orchestral or chamber ensemble. Students perform a variety of repertoire from standard string orchestral pieces to classical, pop and improvisation. Students expand their sight-reading skills, while developing the ability to follow a conductor and play together. Students are encouraged to practice ensemble repertoire with their private lesson teacher. 

To request an audition or learn more, contact Suzuki Ensembles Coordinator Aaron Van Heyningen at aaron.vanheyningen@bkcm.org.

CONCERTS & PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Performance is a vital aspect of our approach to helping young musicians hone the craft of playing in an orchestra – it build confidence, community and the core skills of ensemble playing.

Students in both BKCM Youth Orchestras perform twice per year for an audience of friends, family and BKCM community members. These performances take in both winter and spring, towards the end of each semester.

SUZUKI EVENT PHOTO ARCHIVE

HOW TO APPLY AND AUDITION

New students are required to audition for the BKCM Youth Orchestra program, and admission to the program is pending the audition. Current orchestra members do not need to audition unless there is a question of changing orchestras.

For Fall 2025, auditions will take place on September 2-5. To schedule an audition or placement assessment, email aaron.vanheyningen@bkcm.org. 

If you have questions, please call 718-622-3300 to speak to one of our registrars who will guide you through every step of the registration process. Financial aid is available for qualifying students. To apply, please contact kris.mandapat@bkcm.org and fill out the financial aid application.

For complete information on our registration process and policies, please click here.