Membership Requirements
Membership: The Chester Springs Youth Orchestra is open to musicians from high school through college. Admission is byauditionheld primarily in the Fall and Spring, or throughout the year, depending upon the needs of the orchestra. All orchestra members are required to have private teachers.
Fees: Annual membership fees for the Chester Springs Youth Orchestras are as follow:
$400 – Chester Springs Youth Orchestra
$300 – Chester Springs Chamber Strings
$100 – Chester Springs Sinfonietta
Fees are due with your acceptance letter after your successful audition. For returning musicians, the membership fee is due by September 2nd. Please note that membership fees are not refundable when a musician leaves the orchestra for any reason. Payment arrangements can be made to facilitate payment of fees. We accept Visa, Master Card, American Express and checks. Checks should be payable to CSYO and mailed to:
96 N. Savanna Drive
Pottstown
PA 19465
Members who have not paid the membership fees, or made a financial agreement to pay such fees by the first rehearsal, will not be allowed to participate. Other players will be auditioned to replace them.
Attendance Policy: One of the main goals of the CSYO is to achieve the highest level of artistic advancement. A serious commitment to the orchestra is expected of all members, therefore regular attendance to all rehearsals and concerts is mandatory. There will be no exceptions.
Weekly Rehearsals: Members are expected to be punctual and be prepared for all rehearsals. They should arrive at least 15 minutes before rehearsal begins.
Notification of Absences: Members must notify the conductor in advance of any anticipated absences as early as possible. A form for this purpose is available in the handbook. Please make copies when necessary. Members may not have more than 2 unexcused absences. Absences are excused for the following reasons only:
- Illness
- Examination such as SATs and college audition
- Family emergencies
- Music festivals such as PMEA
In case of last minute absences or lateness due to emergencies, please call the conductor at 610-389-4163
Attendance Recording: An attendance sheet will be available at every rehersal. It is your responsibility to sign in.
Parent's Obligation: You have made a financial commitment to the CSYO. As Music Director and Conductor I must emphasize the importance of your role in helping the individual members to fulfill their musical responsibility and commitment to the orchestra by encouraging at-home practice, 100% attendance, promptness, respect and courtesy at all times.
Finally, I encourage you to be active in the organization to ensure a wonderful experience for these talented young men and women. The joy of music making offers many opportunies and can have a great impact on the lives of the orchestra members.
For more detailed information, please refer to theCSYO Member Handbook
Martin Prescod,
Founder and Music Director