Program Goals

Geographic

Information reported during registration for the current season shows that 30% of CYSO students call Chicago home.

By working primarily with students attending Chicago Public Schools we will increase the number of Chicago Public School students participating in the entire continuum of our programs.

Economic

Research in 2010 showed that 86% of Chicago Public School Students come from low income families.

By eliminating the financial burden for several parents who cannot afford lessons, we are offering an opportunity for their children to strive towards musical excellence.

Racial/Ethnic

In 2010 Chicago Public Schools reported that 45% of its students were of African American descent and another 41% were of Latino descent.

Because of the disproportionate number of African Americans and Latinos in CPS, this program will increase the racial diversity of our programs and the orchestras where our students may be employed after completing the program.

Instrumental

In 2011 CYSO saw 60% more violin auditions than the actual amount of desired violin seats, as opposed to less than 75% of the desired amount of auditions for several other instruments including oboe, bassoon, bass, trombone, and percussion.

By using instrument-specific targeting in our recruitment and audition process, we will increase the variety of instruments represented by Chicago Public School students.

• • Students may audition within the following instrument families: woodwinds, brass percussion and strings.
  • Auditions for new students are held each year in April.
  • CYSO does not offer instruction for guitar or piano.

  • General audition requirements: At least 2 years of music reading and performance experience, ages 7-18;  more details about repertoire and pieces can be found in the auditions section of the website.

Requirements

• • CYSO student
  • Reside in Chicago
  • Attend any Chicago Public School
  • Display a need for financial assistance as exhibited through submission of the CYSO financial assistance application

What do you need to do? 

• • Browse the rest of our website for more information about our programs.
  • Sign up to receive our newsletter and get updates about audition info.
  • Speak with your child’s music teacher or band director about your child’s musical level.
  • Contact Malika Coletta, Education Coordinator at 312-939-2207 ext.29.