Civic String Ensembles
Play in a community string orchestra or chamber group, with musicians of all ages.
The Traverse City Philharmonic Civic String programs give community string players the chance to make music together in a non-professional orchestra or small chamber ensemble. Players of all ages and many levels are welcome.
Choose the ensemble that fits where you are: Prelude for players with at least two years of experience, Sinfonia for advanced players, or a Chamber Music group for small-ensemble playing.
Join an Ensemble This Season
Auditions for placement in Sinfonia or Prelude are Tuesday, September 15, 4–7 pm at the TC Philharmonic Center. Email CMS@tcphil.org or call 231-947-7120 ext. 5 to schedule. Returning members do not need to audition unless they are interested in a leadership chair or would like to move from Prelude to the advanced Sinfonia orchestra.
Prelude String Orchestra
An intermediate string orchestra experience for players of all ages. Members should have at least two years of instruction and be able to read the notes on all four strings. Curriculum goals include note and rhythm reading and orchestra basics such as orchestral posture and how to follow a conductor. This ensemble may also be a great entry point for adults who have been away from their instruments for a number of years.
Directed by Lynne Tobin and Michael McLean
Sinfonia String Orchestra
For advanced players with four or more years of experience who are looking for a stimulating string orchestra experience. Typical members have studied a minimum of four years, have a private instructor, and play in school, church, or other community ensembles. Rehearsal goals include improving technical and lyrical technique while exploring progressively challenging string orchestra repertoire.
Directed by Lynne Tobin and Michael McLean
Sinfonia Chamber Music
Small-ensemble playing for those who want to work on chamber technique and repertoire, with one or two players per part in duos, trios, quartets, and larger groups.
Coached by Gary Gatzke Jr.
Prelude Chamber Music
A small-ensemble chamber group meeting later in the evening, working on playing together in different textures and repertoire suited to the group.
Coached by Gary Gatzke Jr.
Your Instructors
Lynne TobinCo-Director, Civic String OrchestrasLynne Tobin leads the Civic String Orchestras, guiding community string players of all ages through the Prelude and Sinfonia ensembles.Read bio →
Gary Gatzke, Jr.Director, Civic Chamber MusicGary Gatzke, Jr. coaches the Civic Chamber Music ensembles, leading small groups in chamber technique and repertoire.Read bio →
Michael McLeanCo-Director, Civic String OrchestrasMichael McLean co-directs the Civic String Orchestras alongside Lynne Tobin, bringing more than three decades of teaching, performing, and composing to the Prelude and Sinfonia ensembles.Read bio →Scholarships are available for all programs. Apply online with the form below. Questions? Email CMS@tcphil.org or call 231-947-7120 ext. 5.