BKCM Youth Orchestras

PROGRAMS & CAMPS

Programs at BKCM

● COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL

Private Lessons, Classes & Ensembles at our park slope campus

● SUZUKI PROGRAM

World-class Suzuki-based instruction in piano, strings, Guitar & Flute

● MUSIC THERAPY

Developmental, psychological & social-emotional growth through music

● MUSIC PARTNERS

music education at schools & community organizations in NYC

● CHESTNUT COMMONS COMMUNITY MUSIC CENTER

music Lessons & Classes for residents of East New York & Cypress Hills

Need help finding the right program?

Learn about our programs

Summer CAmps

Financial Aid

BKCM Youth Orchestras

Ages: 7-18

Type: Instrumental

Term: Annual

Duration: 28 Weeks

Price: $1120 / $560 with private lessons

Instructors:

Now accepting applications for 2026-27!

Rehearsals start in September. If you’re interested in joining an orchestra in 2026-27, fill out the application.

Open to all violin, viola, cello and bass students by audition, the BKCM Youth Orchestras offer both beginning and intermediate instrumentalists between the ages of 7 and 18 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

HOW TO APPLY

OUR YOUTH ORCHESTRAS

STRING ENSEMBLE

Ages 7-14 • Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 • Led by Ben Bregman

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 • Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 • 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.

Rehearsals for the 2026-27 annual program start in September 2026. If you’re interested in joining either Youth Orchestra in 2026-27, fill out the application.

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 place in both winter and spring, towards the end of each semester.

SUZUKI EVENT PHOTO ARCHIVE

HOW TO APPLY AND AUDITION

Both new and returning Youth Orchestra students are required to fill out the the Application Form below. This year, all applicants (new and returning) will be required to record a short video audition using a smartphone, and submit it through the form.

Youth Orchestras Application

If you have questions, please contact Luis Mercado at luis.mercado@bkcm.org.

Financial Aid

A limited amount of financial aid is available for qualified students during the 2026-27 school year. To apply, kindly submit the financial aid application. Please note: submitting an application does not guarantee that financial aid will eventually be awarded.

If you have any questions before applying, contact kris.mandapat@bkcm.org. Please allow 7 business days for Kris to review your application and respond.

Withdrawal Policy for Youth Orchestras

Students enrolled in group classes and ensembles have up to 24 hours after their first class to be eligible for withdrawal and receive a refund for the remaining classes or request a transfer (subject to availability in other sections). Registration and payment plan fees are nonrefundable.