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JCM on OC Register: Musicians Take Teamwork to a New Level

DATE POSTED: OCTOBER 9, 2015

 

Clemens Quartet: To Perform on "From the Top"

Eighty-five young musicians appeared before three professional performing artists last weekend during the 12th annual Junior Chamber Music auditions. One by one they played two pieces of music to demonstrate their skill range and to help the adjudicators find a spot for them in the elite music training program.

 

“I remember when I walked in (for my first audition), I was extremely nervous,” said Amber Correa, 14, who auditioned five years ago. “I expected to see stone cold faces, but instead there was nothing but smiling faces, and I knew these people were going to be supportive no matter how I played.”

 

The program, open to Southern California musicians ages 9-20, connects students with a network of world-class musicians and provides opportunities to participate in workshops, tours and concerts.

 

It also emphasizes the importance of teamwork and demonstrates how a collaborative effort can lead to success, said artistic and executive director Susan Boettger.

 

Boettger believes chamber groups are the ideal way for a musician to experience music. “You get this unique opportunity to be a part of a team, but at the same time you’re the only one playing your particular part,” she said.

 

Jocelyn Chen, 14, auditioned for the program for the first time this year. “Chamber music, according to my piano teacher, is the best way to build listening skills as well as a sense of balance in sound,” she said. “Playing music with my talented peers is the perfect way to share our love of music, as well as sharing our skills on our instruments.”

 

The added responsibility of carrying your own part of the music, Boettger said, brings students a renewed appreciation for and attention to the intricate details of their technique.

 

“The small-group environment motivates (the students) in a way that nothing else does,” said Boettger.

 

After the students audition, Boettger and her team of coaches place them in groups according to level and age. Chamber music artists are divided into groups of three or four, with each student playing a different instrument. Groups can also include vocalists.

Once the students are assigned, they meet at least once a week for four months to work on a single piece of music that will be presented at their final concert in March. Throughout the rehearsal process, the groups are visited by professional coaches who offer tips and guidance.

 

Read this feature on OC Register (written by Kaitlin Wright)