Strings Program

Our Central Coast String Ensemble Program is a graded ensemble program for students of the violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Students can begin with Mini Strings after approximately six months of learning and progress through the program as they develop their skills. Advanced students finish the program in our Senior Strings ensemble, with the opportunity to audition for the Youth Orchestra and, eventually, the Regional Youth Orchestra of NSW.

For adults wanting to learn, we also offer our Adult Beginner Strings program on Thursday nights—find out more below!

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Close-up of a violin from the central coast string ensemble

About our Central Coast String Ensemble Programs

Beginner String Classes (Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass)

Beginner String Classes are for beginner students who would like to explore playing string instruments in a fun group environment.

These classes run for one semester (6 months) as a 30-minute shared class for 2 students.

On completion of Beginner String Class, students will progress to one-to-one tuition and Mini Strings.

Mini Strings (Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass)

Open to students who have been learning their instrument for a period of 6 months – 2 years.

In this fun ensemble students will learn the fundamentals of playing together in an ensemble and celebrate their achievements each semester with an end of term concert.

Junior Strings (Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass)

Our Junior Strings class is for young players looking to join a group to build their ensemble skills and collaborate with others to showcase their musical talent.

String Ensemble (Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass)

String Ensemble is for students playing at a standard of AMEB grades 2 – 4.

Students in this ensemble enjoy exploring exciting new repertoires, more complex scores and developing their group performance skills.

Once students are confident in their ensemble skills, they can learn self-sufficiency and leadership skills through additional Chamber Music classes.

String Ensemble performs at the end of term concert each semester.

Technique Class (Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass)

Technique classes are for students playing in the String Ensemble and Central Coast Chamber Orchestra.

This class is an invaluable tool in learning and consolidating all aspects of string technique and is designed to supplement students’ learning in their one-to-one lessons.

Chamber Ensemble (Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass)

The Central Coast Chamber Ensemble is the Conservatorium’s premier string ensemble and regularly performs in the Premier Ensembles Concert, Opera in the Arboretum and other high profile community events.

In addition to weekly rehearsals, members of the Central Coast Chamber Ensemble also participate in Chamber Music and Technique classes.

Adult Beginner Strings

Have you always wanted to play the violin? It’s never too late to learn! Central Coast Conservatorium has launched a new Adult Beginner Strings Program for students 18 and over who would like to learn violin, viola, cello or double bass. No experience necessary!

The classes are on Thursday, 7-8pm at the Conservatorium, 45 Mann Street, Gosford and will be taken by new strings teacher Anita Gluyas.

When: Thursday, 7pm – 8pm
Studio: Robert Knox Hall
Cost: $237 per term plus $50 annual enrolment fee

To enrol click HERE. For more information, email admin@cccmusic.nsw.edu.au or phone 02 4324 7477.

Extension Opportunities

Students involved in the Central Coast Strings Ensemble Program and/or one-to-one lessons can participate in several extension opportunities including:

  • Masterclasses with world renowned musicians and international visiting artists (all Saturday Strings and one to one students)
  • Performance practice classes twice a term (for one-to-one Conservatorium students only)

For a full schedule of rehearsals, please contact us.