Concord Conservatory of MusicConcord Conservatory of Music
While private lessons are essential for building technical skill and individual artistry, young string musicians truly flourish when they have opportunities beyond solo practice. Programs like chamber ensembles and orchestras allow them to collaborate, communicate, and think on their feet—skills that are vital for both musicianship and personal growth.
In group settings, students develop qualities such as timing, listening, and musical sensitivity—abilities that can only be honed through shared musical experiences. These ensemble opportunities challenge them to adapt their playing, build confidence, and experience the joy of creating something greater together.
At CCM, we offer string players the chance to deepen their skills and broaden their experiences through two exceptional programs: the West Side Strings Program and the new Overture String Orchestra.
For string players ages 5 through 10, the West Side Strings Program helps students grow as musicians by participating in ensemble work, chamber music, and collaborative performance. Guided instruction enhances their listening abilities, musical sensitivity, and sense of timing, bridging the gap between individual practice and the collaborative nature of music-making.
Our Overture String Orchestra (OSO) for students in grades 4 through 8 and directed by Ryan Urato, offers an even greater opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the world of orchestral playing. Designed as a dynamic, supportive chamber orchestra, OSO enables students to explore a wide range of repertoire, build confidence, and develop ensemble skills. The program focuses on the joy of collective performance, preparing musicians for the next level of musical achievement.
With the support of our generous donors, families, and community members, these terrific experiences equip our students for success, fostering their growth as confident performers and creative thinkers.
We’re thrilled to welcome our newest faculty members, who bring a wealth of expertise and passion to our vibrant music community. More than just teaching scales and techniques, our faculty inspire a lifelong love of music, creativity, and personal growth. They guide students to become confident, disciplined musicians with a deep emotional connection to their craft.
At CCM, we take a holistic approach to music education, combining technical mastery with individualized instruction tailored to each student’s unique needs and goals. Through hands-on experiences like improvisation, performance, and collaboration, students are empowered to take risks, think critically, and express themselves—both in music and in life.
Our community thrives on connection, and we’re grateful to have new faculty members—Jackson Carruthers (piano), Cassie Kollman (voice, Boys & Girls Club), Leah Kosch (piano), Janice Lu (piano), Lautaro Mantilla (guitar), and Minyung Suh (cello), whose passion for teaching enriches our shared mission. We’re also excited to welcome Ryan Urato as the Director of the Overture String Orchestra, where he aims to provide students with a dynamic and rewarding chamber orchestra experience. Our new faculty members bring a remarkable depth of talent and knowledge to CCM, each contributing their unique expertise.
Thank you for enabling us to attract this talented group of music educators!
Elevating Listening, One Listening Project Playlist at a Time
Why do we focus on enhancing Active Listening skills? 
Active listening is a powerful tool for anyone looking to improve communication and creativity. For musicians, it helps refine playing and boost performance. It allows you not only to hear the music but to engage deeply with it—analyzing, feeling, and letting it shape your musicianship and life skills.
Based on valuable feedback from our listeners, we’ve slightly revised the format of our Listening Project Playlists. The first two selections are tailored to our junior listeners, though everyone can enjoy and benefit from these engaging pieces.
Unlike passive listening—where music plays in the background without much focus—active listening demands your full attention, helping you build a stronger, more meaningful connection to the music. By exploring a wide variety of genres, you train your ears to stay fully engaged. The Junior Selections, indicated by an asterisk, are designed to captivate younger audiences and deepen their connection to music.
The September playlist, curated by CCM faculty member Stephen Marotto, explores musical collaboration and partnerships through a range of duets from across the musical spectrum. We’re elevating listening skills one great playlist at a time.
We’re excited to announce the 2024-2025 CCM Concert & Lecture Series, offering an exciting lineup of performances and talks that promise to inspire, educate, and entertain.
The series kicks off with Piano Inspirations on Friday, October 25, 2024, featuring CCM faculty member and award-winning pianist Yelena Beriyeva. She will perform works by Brahms, Debussy, and Mussorgsky, taking listeners on a journey through the introspective and the iconic.
Music & Identity: Your Listener Profile
Friday, November 22, 7:30 pm
Po’ Ramblin’ Boys
Saturday, January 25, 7:00 pm
Music & Rebels
Friday, February 7, 7:30 pm
Around Hear
Saturday, March 22, 2:00 pm
Southern Rail
Saturday, April 26, 7:00 pm
We’re grateful to our sponsors!
We invite all music enthusiasts and businesses to sponsor our Concert & Lecture Series. If you’re interested, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (978) 369-0010. We would love to discuss how you can be part of this exciting series.
Lead Concert Series Sponsor
Music Supporter Sponsor
What do Fidelity, Raytheon, and State Street have in common?
They have matching gift programs.
Won’t you please consider giving the gift of music today?
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