The CYS Program Today

Level I - The Repertory Orchestra, (RO), conducted by Ms. Ginger Greer of the Greenville County School System, is the beginning level of the CYS orchestras. The Repertory Orchestra contains wind, strings, and percussion players who are learning transpositional skills and ensemble playing techniques. The large body of original music and arrangements of the standard orchestral repertory provides the core music for this group. Rep Orchestra members also have opportunities throughout the year to participate in Level III sectionals, ensembles, and in some cases, performances.

Level II – The Concert Orchestra, (CO), conducted by James Kilgus is the intermediate level of the CYS orchestras. The Concert Orchestra contains wind, strings and percussion players who are more advanced in their transposition and sight reading skills. Students study advanced high school orchestral repertory. Sectional opportunities are offered for each section on a regular basis. This experience is designed for students to successfully make the transition to perform in the Symphony Orchestra.

Level III - The Symphony Orchestra (SO) has existed 53 years with Dr. Robert Chesebro as Conductor and Musical Director for 25 years. Upon retirement, Dr. Chesebro assumed the role of Artistic Director for the Symphony until Dr. Leslie Hicken, of Furman University, took over as Conductor and Artistic Director and Dr. Chesebro was named Conductor Emeritus. CYS exists to provide experience and instruction to advanced young musicians who perform the standard orchestral repertory, usually in original editions. Wind players are often required to transpose at sight, and additional clef reading is a requirement for most members. Advanced members of the Symphony Orchestra are chosen by the Director to participate in a Chamber Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, which performs in conjunction with the SO in formal concerts throughout the year.

Sectional coaching is provided to all orchestras. In addition to advanced sight-reading abilities for the SO orchestra; SO, CO and Repertory Orchestra members are expected to continue private instruction and to develop a solo repertory. The Symphony orchestra also has had Brass, Wind, String and Percussion Ensembles, which on occasion, utilize members from the Repertory Orchestra and Concert orchestras.

The SO brings together the finest young musicians in the area to rehearse and perform under inspiring leadership in a professional environment including competitions and concert hall performances. We seek to develop performers and audiences for the future.

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