THE WIND PROGRAM

Why CMC Winds?
Today's aspiring young wind instrumentalists are the heirs to a cherished Pittsburgh tradition. Indeed, they are the latest in a progression of talented students that for generations have found, in this community, the resources and support needed to realize their respective musical goals.

Young brass and woodwind students may still choose to supplement fine grade-school and high-school ensemble programs with the private instruction which remains available to them from any of the area's dedicated independent teachers. The question is: why choose the City Music Center?

We believe that the most compelling reason to consider the wind instrument program at CMC relates to its function as only one element of a diverse, full service music environment. Thus, while our students can anticipate private study with one of the finest and most experienced professional performer/teachers in the area, our students also can exercise their option to enroll in one or more of the many related CMC programs (core musicianship; comprehensive musicianship; jazz studies; chamber orchestra and a variety of chamber ensembles) that have no parallel in other venues.

Evaluation
The CMC wind faculty is committed to providing parents and students alike with the tools for evaluating progress in the program. To this end, we encourage regular parental/student conferences with faculty. Further, a jury examination will be scheduled on a Saturday toward the end of the year for intermediate and advanced students.

The success of any activity is ultimately contingent upon the degree of commitment evidenced in those directly involved. The CMC wind faculty encourages active parental involvement and pledges to respond to any concerns. In return, we remind our students and parents alike, that regular practice is not optional in this program. It is required. While the amount of daily practice can vary according to individual, the habit of consistent daily practice is essential to satisfactory progress. To this end, we recommend that each student or parent keep a practice journal.

FACULTY-BRASS

Robert Schmalz, Chair, Trombone
Matt Litterini, French Horn
Charles Lirette, Trumpet

FACULTY-WOODWINDS

Josh Dunlevy, Saxophone
James Gorton, Oboe
James Guerra, Saxophone
Jack Howell, Clarinet
Rhian Kenny, Flute & Piccolo
Phillip Pandolfi, Oboe
Heidi Pandolfi, Bassoon

Effective June 1, 2011, CMC will begin processing Summer Tuition Payments online. Final tuition payments for the current academic year should continue to be processed through the CMC office.

Please note, credit card payments will be subject to a 2.55% prcessing fee. Payments by check or eCheck have no fee.

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