Youth Orchestras

For the completely new violin, viola, cello, and bass player looking for their first ensemble experience. This is an entry level class where students will begin to work towards an understanding of basic sight-reading, tone production, dynamic pallet, balance, rhythm, articulation, and expression.

No ensemble experience is required for this class making this ideal for students who have not yet reached AMEB Grade 1, Unit 1, or Suzuki Book 2. This is an invaluable opportunity for inexperienced string players to gain an understanding of orchestral string playing.

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For the completely new bass player looking for their first ensemble experience. This is an entry level class where students will begin to work towards an understanding of basic sight-reading, tone production, dynamic palette, balance, rhythm, articulation, and expression. Students in the Meyer Double Bass Ensemble will work separately with our bass specialist and perform alongside the Primrose Training Orchestra.

No ensemble experience is required for this class making this ideal for students who have not yet reached AMEB Grade 1, Unit 1, or Suzuki Book 2.

This is an invaluable opportunity for new bass players to gain an understanding of orchestral string playing.

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For the beginner violin, viola, cello, and bass player looking to strengthen their basic ensemble skills. This is a comprehensive class where students will work towards a greater mastery of sight-reading, tone production, dynamic pallet, balance, rhythm, articulation, and expression.

Students are required to have at least one year of experience on their instrument and have a facility comparable to AMEB Grade 1, Unit 1, or Suzuki Book 2. This is a great opportunity for young string players to gain invaluable ensemble experience while building connections with other members.

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For the intermediate violin, viola, cello, and bass player, in upper primary school and/or junior high school years. This is a comprehensive class where students work towards a greater mastery of sight-reading, tone production, dynamic pallet, balance, rhythm, articulation, and expression.

Entry is by audition, or recommendation by a Wollongong Conservatorium of Music string teacher. The entry standard is from Grade 3/Grade 4 AMEB upwards, with prospective students demonstrating good sight-reading and rhythmic skills, as the Powell String Orchestra is the precursor to the BlueScope Youth Orchestra.

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The BlueScope Youth Orchestra has been one of the flagship performing ensembles of the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music for the past 35 years, providing performance opportunities and orchestral training to the youth of the Illawarra region and surrounding areas. It currently has 35 players aged 13 to 19 years of age and is conducted by Nigel Edwards. The Orchestra performs regularly within Wollongong and surrounding areas, often bringing together other musical groups and societies to share concerts.

Annual tours are also part of the program, visiting regional areas within NSW and Australia. Every third year there is the opportunity for the orchestra to tour internationally.

Entry is by audition only, and students are required to be at least 6th Grade AMEB, and in high school.

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The Camerata Chamber Group is for advanced players. The aim of Camerata is to provide a varied and challenging ensemble for students in 8th grade and above, with a repertoire that varies from ancient to modern styles.

The Group would perform four or five times per year. Membership is by audition or invitation and rehearsals are on Friday nights at 7.30 pm for one hour. However, this is flexible and rehearsals may be longer at times.

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