String Area

Overview

The CSU string area seeks to empower students with the knowledge, skills and experience needed for a successful career in music. One-on-one training with artist/scholars, chamber ensemble coaching sessions, rehearsals and concerts with the University Symphony and Sinfonia Orchestras promote the intellectual, creative and artistic growth of each student. We believe that total musicianship involves training the artists of the future to have a breadth of knowledge. Professional musicians today are performers, scholars, educators and active supporters of the cause of music. Our string program guides the aspiring musician towards the fulfillment of these goals.

2024 Colorado Cello Intensive

July 27, 2025 - August 2, 2025 at 12:00 AM
The Colorado Cello Intensive program is designed to maximize technical, musical, and personal growth. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 4:1, the Colorado Cello Intensive (CCI) is dedicated to helping students reach their full potential. We believe in the work hard, play hard mentality and offer students an array of evening possibilities, including hiking, rock climbing, and a trip to Rocky Mountains National Park. Surrounded by the beautiful Rocky Mountains in Fort Collins, Colorado, CCI is the ideal location to develop your playing this summer!

String News

Welcoming Romina Monsanto as CSU’s new cello professor

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The School of Music, Theatre, and Dance welcomes our new cello professor, Romina Monsanto, to the faculty. Ms. Monsanto is active regionally as a teacher at Aims Community College, maintains a private studio, and is a frequent performer; she is “all but dissertation” status with the University of Northern Colorado’s doctor of arts program. Ms. […]

Kreutz playing violin

Bob Kreutz: Teacher and performer with four decades of experience

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Bob Kreutz: Teacher and performer with four decades of experience by Music Education | Alumni | Bob Kreutz | orchestra | School of Music Theatre and Dance Robert Kreutz has a wealth of knowledge from many years of teaching in the Thompson School District and performing in prestigious orchestras in Colorado and Wyoming. Kreutz holds […]

David Saccardi headshot

Dr. David Saccardi, music education professor at LSU

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Dr. David Saccardi, music education professor at LSU by Jessica Warner Music Education | Alumni | David Saccardi | School of Music Theatre and Dance When David Saccardi graduated from Colorado State University in 2011, he did not realize the groundwork was laid for something more prestigious. He was recently awarded the position of associate […]

Artists-in-Residence

Mendelssohn Trio 2021 Promotional Photo

The Mendelssohn Trio: Formed in 1988, the trio is named for cellist Barbara Thiem's great grandfather, Franz von Mendelssohn, a nephew of Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy and an important supporter of artists and musicians in the Berlin of the early 20th century. While performing the standard repertoire of the 18th and 19th centuries the trio has made an effort to introduce its audiences to works by 20th century American and European composers. The members give frequent concerts and work closely with students on chamber music projects.

Duo Francois Promotional Photo

The Duo Francois has been performing at National and International venues since 2008.  This dynamic and versatile duo are known for their interpretations of the classic repertoire and are champions of new compositions in the violin and piano genre.  Several pieces have been composed for the Duo Francois by some of the finest composers of the 21st century.

Their latest CD entitled "Mexico City Blues" featuring three commissioned works earned the Duo a silver medal in both the 'Duo' and 'Emerging Artist' categories at the Global Music Awards and also received regognition by the American Prize in the category of chamber music.

Since 2008, the Duo Francois has also provided masterclasses and lessons, nationally and internationally, to numerous prospective students, and many of these students have pursued graduate work at CSU as a result.

Graduate String Quartet Program

Prerequisites for Admission: Bachelor’s Degree in Music, variety of solo and chamber music repertoire.

Opportunities:

  • Assistance in developing artistic and business-related aspects for a successful quartet career
  • Participation in LEAP courses is encouraged
  • Seminar Topics Include:
    • Outreach Program Development
    • Creative Programming
    • Commissioning New Works
    • Arts Leadership & Administration
    • Chamber Music literature/Pedagogy
    • Supervised Coaching Experience

Students will be Involved in the Following:

  • Daily Rehearsal Time
  • Dedicated ensemble rehearsal space in our new state-of-the-art teaching and performance facility
  • Weekly Coaching

Additional Professional Work Available:

  • Opportunities with four professional symphonies in Northern Colorado
  • Teaching Opportunities
  • Chamber Music Performances

For more information, please contact Margaret Miller.

CSU Music Information Request Form

  • Contact Information

  • Interests

    Would you like to request a complimentary lesson with the professor of your instrument/voice? You will be connected with the appropriate professor, who will be in touch to schedule the lesson (either in-person or virtually, depending on availability and coordination of schedules).