Chamber Music Institute
Chamber Music Institute
See Us in Action
In addition to their large ensemble experience, each EYSO student in the Prelude level and higher is invited to participate in EYSO’s Chamber Music Institute as a member of a small, collaborative ensemble. This essential part of a young musician's development teaches skills that improve both solo and large ensemble playing: each player is both a soloist and team member at the same time. Playing chamber music sharpens vital listening skills and provides invaluable musicianship training. And, many students build some of their closest friendships through their chamber music experience.
Chamber ensembles meet for 50 minutes (Youth Symphony ensembles for 90 minutes) every Sunday with regular coaching by local professional musicians. Coaches are some of the most skilled educators and performers in the Chicago area and have a great passion for teaching. In addition to two main concerts per season, CMI ensembles are sometimes invited to perform at community concerts throughout the area.
The Chamber Music Institute is open to all interested students. Students not currently enrolled in a large ensemble at EYSO but interested in a chamber music experience are encouraged to apply.
EYSO’s four Honors Chamber Ensembles offer an unparalleled opportunity for advanced high school and college-aged musicians to play chamber music at the highest level. Students work closely with some of the nation’s finest artist-educators and chamber music coaches.
As premier ensembles and ambassadors of CMI and EYSO—the Maud Powell String Quartet, Hanson String Quartet, Sterling Brass Quintet, and Earl Clemens Wind Quintet—the HCEs maintain active, high-profile performing schedules.
Application Process
Interested Youth Symphony students may apply in the late spring to join an HCE the following fall. After completing a rigorous application, audition, and interview process, ensembles are formed to showcase the highest level of artistic achievement at EYSO for students, families, and the broader community.
Rehearsals and Coaching
In addition to longer weekly coaching, HCEs rehearse independently each week from August through May and participate in extra performance opportunities. Primary HCE coaches include:
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Chicago Symphony Orchestra violist Max Raimi
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Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra cellist Tim Archbold
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Chicago Sinfonietta trumpet player Matt Lee
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Orion Ensemble clarinetist Kathy Pirtle
HCEs also work with prominent guest coaches, including principal players from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera Orchestra, and Elgin Symphony Orchestra, as well as professional chamber musicians and university faculty.
Tuition and Resources
All HCEs are offered tuition-free thanks to generous sponsors. Students interested in learning more can view a sample HCE handbook outlining all expectations and procedures here.
Email office@eyso.org for more information!
CMI ensembles rehearse most Sunday afternoons, September-March, around their large-ensemble rehearsals.
Students may miss up to two rehearsals per concert cycle, with special criteria for dress rehearsal absences, without impacting their eligibility to perform.
In addition to weekly rehearsals, students are expected to participate in Fall Camp, prior to the start of the season, as well as Friday evening and/or Saturday dress rehearsals scheduled in advance of each concert.
CMI students present two days of concerts each year, one in November and one in March. The 2025-2026 concert schedule is:
- November 9, 2025
- March 29, 2026
Audition for EYSO
Students interested in participating in the Chamber Music Institute may apply through the annual audition application process.
CMI ensemble placements are made based on large ensemble auditions. Auditions for the 2026-2027 season will be held May 28-31, 2026.
Get all the audition details for your ensemble and instrument here.
Questions about audition requirements? Email office@eyso.org — we’re happy to help!