The CPSSO is coming!

The CPSSO (Chelmsford Public School String Orchestra) is embarking upon its inaugural season, will begin rehearsals this month. This ensemble is open to all Parker, McCarthy, and CHS grade 6-12 students who are currently enrolled in the district’s String Orchestra program, and is free of charge. CPS students younger than 6th grade who have studied their string instrument for at least two years are also encouraged to join.

Currently, Orchestra is offered during the school day to students in grades 4-12 in Chelmsford, and this program provides them with a MA standards-aligned curriculum to give them the skills, knowledge, and technique they need to develop as successful musicians. CPS Orchestra faculty members Ms. Comeau (Grade 4 Elementary/CHS), Mrs. Slocum (McCarthy), and Ms. Tiano (Parker) created CPSSO to provide further opportunities to differentiate instruction for their students. In CPSSO, students will participate in a multi-age level string orchestra ensemble and interact in a collaborative manner with other young musicians.

“While there are other fine student orchestra ensembles in the area,” states Mrs. Slocum, “CPSSO will offer CPS middle and high-school students the opportunity to create bonds with other young musicians within their home town. They all share a love for music and the desire to refine their craft. It will also provide older members the chance to lead sectional rehearsals and small ensemble literature.”

This non-competitive ensemble will have two sessions. Each session will meet weekly for ten rehearsals, followed by a performance at the PAC.

Mrs. Tiano adds, “One o my favorite music sayings is: Music is not what we do, it’s a part of who we are. Playing their instruments is something these students associate as a big part of their identity, and CPSSO will allow them to further develop this aspect of their lives.”

Please contact Mrs. Slocum at slocums@chelmsford.k12.ma.us or Ms. Tiano at tianol@chelmsford.k12.ma.us with questions.