Enrichment
Enrichment
Students going into the 6th grade have many options for their middle school. One of those options is a CPA, or Creative and Performing Arts Academy. These schools integrate a rigorous performing arts curriculum into the state expectations. Students pick a Major to focus on- this would be their instrument (so a violinist would major in violin, a trombonist in trombone). This is a great opportunity to become both a great musician and a great academic!
To attend a CPA school, students must apply, provide letters of recommendation, write a personal essay, and audition. Here is a brief look at the process:
Use the School Finder to determine which school your child should apply to.
Submit application between now and December 1. Once submitted there is a confirmation message that pops up to let the parent/guardian know it was received.
In December, the family will receive an email notification about the audition date, location, etc. provided recommendations have been received and student home address is within school boundaries.
Auditions take place the 1st (VPA) & 3rd (CPA) Saturday in January. Many students need to start preparing now and all of the update requirements for auditions is on pgcpsarts.org Students will complete their essay about why they want to be in the program at the audition site.
Final notifications will go to families in February by email. Letters will not be mailed out.
If you decide to apply, please speak to Ms. Roderick so she can help your child prepare for the audition. I also recommend getting private lessons to help prepare.
All students, from those struggling to learn the instrument to those excelling past their classmates and everyone in between, can benefit from a private teacher. If you and your child are interested in private lessons and would like assistance in finding a teacher, please contact Ms. Siwak.
The Chesapeake Youth Symphony Orchestra is a wonderful opportunity to learn more advanced music and interact with skilled musicians! In elementary school, I recommend students audition for the Preparatory Orchestra.
The CYSO was founded to bring the young musicians of the Annapolis-Baltimore-Washington region together to enjoy and refine their musical skills with the study of ensemble repertoire.
Today it is a thriving organization with 9 bands and orchestras of various sizes and styles to suit many needs, accepting students from a wide range of levels.
The CYSO is committed to teaching all students with respect and diligence with an outlook for the growth of each individual as an artist and as an ambitious, responsible member of society.
The orchestra has rolling auditions, so students can apply year round. Contact the orchestra for more information.
The DC Youth Orchestra Program offers a combination of small group lessons and ensembles.
"The mission of the DC Youth Orchestra Program (DCYOP) is “music for young people; achievement for life.” Our goals are to 1.) Provide quality music instruction and performance opportunities for young people across the DC metropolitan area’s full diversity, 2.) Develop a Youth Orchestra capable of competing successfully at the national and international levels, and 3.) Instill in our students the discipline and focus necessary to succeed academically as well as musically. "
DCYOP has a Spring and Fall Semester. Go to their website to see if enrollment is open. Students who do not yet know an instrument can enroll. If the student already has experience then there is a placement audition.