Chamber Music Center of NY youth chamber music group with violins, cello, and piano performing on stage.

Youth & Teen Chamber Music

Chamber music is at the heart of what we do at CMC. Small ensembles develop teamwork, commitment, and accountability — skills that help students thrive today and be successful adults tomorrow. Multiple performances prepare students for the Season Finale at Carnegie Hall.

Dr. Mary Jo Pagano, Artistic Director

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Violinist Arnold Steinhardt (Guarneri String Quartet) talks about how CMC’s programs benefit young musicians.

“CMC has been transformative for my son. The playing and instruction are top-caliber, and everyone takes it seriously while also knowing when and how to have fun.”
— Caitlin Van Dusen, CMC Parent

Our Chamber Music Students Experience:

  • Young boy playing clarinet during CMC chamber music group practice.

    Passion

    Playing chamber music opens up a door for communication and expression on a deeply profound level. Our students learn to get into each others’ musical minds and souls, they experience the thrill of a collective experience, they switch between leading and following, passing phrases and musical ideas back and forth like an intense conversation. They are connected — to each other, to the great composers, to their own emotions and to the audiences who delight in their performances. It is a life-changing journey.

  • Teenage girl holding violin and smiling.

    Excellence

    Artistic Director Mary Jo Pagano has created an individualized approach aimed at developing the whole child and encouraging students to achieve a high standard of musical development and performance. Peer support and accountability provide motivation to dig deep into the great works of chamber music. Our faculty work together to set a professional musical standard, a high level of commitment and attention to detail.

  • Young violin player writing on sheet music during CMC chamber music group practice.

    Growth

    Preparing great works of chamber music, rehearsing with a group of one’s peers, discussing different interpretations and being part of a collective musical and personal journey transforms our students. This happens daily, yearly, and over their entire CMC experience. As students progress through our program we see them emerge as well-rounded young adults, with increased listening skills, teamwork, compassion, responsibility, and problem solving. And the miraculous part is that they’re having fun at the same time.

Chamber Music Information

The Key to CMC Success

Participants audition for chamber music readiness and groups are formed as appropriate by level and age. Specific works are thoughtfully chosen for each group to inspire, challenge, and develop the unique skills needed to perform at a high level. Our highly-experienced faculty rotate through the groups to provide the necessary support and care so that every young musician has a joyful and confident performance. 

“I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the wonderful concert yesterday. The evening was not just a musical event but a profound emotional experience that moved me deeply. The dedication to bringing such joy and cultural enrichment to every family is truly commendable. The efforts put into coordinating such events and the passion displayed by all involved are clearly evident and greatly appreciated.”
— Zhu Zheng, CMC Parent

Past Repertoire Includes:

  • Beethoven Piano Trios

  • Brahms Piano Trios

  • Bruch Trio

  • Bridge Miniatures

  • Debussy Quartets

  • Haydn Quartets

  • Klengel Trios

  • Mendelssohn Trios, Quartets

  • Pleyel Quartet

  • Schumann Piano Quartet

  • Shostakovich Trio, Piano Quintet

  • Turina Piano Quartet

  • Vivaldi Sonatas

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CMC youth chamber music group performing on stage in NYC with flute, guitar, and cello.

Program Requirements

Learn more about the requirements and how to apply for our Chamber Music Program.