CWU Preparatory Strings Program

About Us

The Kittitas Valley Youth Orchestra (KVYO) was founded in 1987 (under a different title) when the local school district canceled their strings program. When the program was adopted and expanded by CWU in 1991, the Preparatory Strings Program was born! Up until the fall of 2007, it was the only string ensemble instruction available in the area. Currently, Prep Strings has five instructional levels that is designed to allow students to progress from beginning through second-year (Silver), intermediate (Gold), upper intermediate (Debut), and finally to advanced (KVYO). The program often serves over 70 students ranging in age from 7-18.

This is a new class, starting Fall 2008, for students ages 6-7 and their parents. It will include two 90-minute introductory parent classes (without children) covering Suzuki philosophy and method, approximately eight weekly group classes for children and their participating parent or caregiver, and one final performance with the rest of the Prep Strings program.
The Suzuki method is ideal for the early beginner. In addition to teaching the child how to play an instrument, the approach seeks to develop the whole child and help unfold a natural potential to learn and become a good and happy person. Through the Suzuki process, children thrive in a total environment of support. They develop confidence and self-esteem, determination to try difficult things, self-discipline and concentration, as well as a lasting enjoyment of music, and the sensitivity and skill for music making.
Please see Master Teacher Barb Riley's biography by following the "Meet the Staff" link to the left.

2008-2009: Meets Wednesdays, 5-5:50 except Oct 1 & 8 from 5-6:30.

The Beginning String Orchestra provides an encouraging environment in which children (usually 8-11 years old) receive quality hands-on instruction on violin, viola, cello, or bass. This class is appropriate for both beginners and students who have completed the Early Beginners class. Topics of instruction include right hand and left hand techniques, notes on the instrument, reading music, ear training, and more. Students will develop a basic understanding of and appreciation for music, gain personal confidence, learn how to work as a team, and have fun! It is taught by CWU music students and Advising Faculty Dr. Smith.

2008-2009: Meets Mondays and Fridays from 4:00-4:45

Students who have successfully completed Beginning Strings or have taken private lessons for at least one year are eligible to join Silver Strings. Incoming students will be familiar with reading music and have a solid understanding of the basic techniques of their instruments. This class, with an emphasis on individual playing and how each person contributes to an ensemble, is taught by CWU music students.

2008-2009: Meets Mondays and Fridays from 4:00-4:45

Gold Orchestra students have been playing for at least two years prior and are accepted by audition. Many students play with Gold Orchestra for more than one year to refine more challenging techniques such as third position and vibrato. The ensemble is directed by CWU music students.
2008-2009: Meets Mondays and Fridays from 4:00-4:45

Students should be prepared for more rigorous rehearsals and practice expectations in this advanced ensemble. The auditioned members of Debut Orchestra are presented with challenging repertoire that encourages both technique and musical development, and it is common for students to play for several years at this level. It is directed by CWU music students.
2008-2009: Meets Thursdays from 6:00-8:00 (note: changed from 6:30 to 6:00 this year)

KVYO is the premiere ensemble of the Prep Strings. Students of this ensemble are accomplished musicians who, by audition, have displayed sophisticated technical and artistic abilities. This ensemble most often performs as a symphonic orchestra (consisting of winds, brass, and percussion in addition to strings) under the direction of CWU Graduate Teaching Assistant Kim Roy. As the most experienced students in the program, members of KVYO are expected to set a good example for, and inspire, our other orchestra students.
The purpose of each orchestra in the Prep Program is to foster musical, technical, and artistic skills. More importantly, the staff strives to build the self-confidence of each student, discovering and developing his/her skills and abilities to contribute to the success of a team. As the most experienced and seasoned students in the program, members of KVYO are expected to set the example for other orchestra members.
2008-2009: Meets Thursdays from 6:00-8:00