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.
String Events
String Chamber Music Concert / FREE
Graduate String Quartet
String News
2021 Milestone Years of Service
Every year, Colorado State University celebrates employees achieving a decade of service of more. Congratulations to all who have reached a Milestone year of service this academic year, and thank you for your commitment to Colorado State University. 10 years Dawn Grapes, Associate Professor of Music; Music HistoryBonnie Jacobi, Associate Professor of Music; Music EducationAdam […]
Music returns to Griffin Concert Hall
It was an emotional moment when the University Symphony Orchestra (strings and percussion) took the Griffin Concert Hall stage and played the first concert at the University Center for the Arts in six months. The concert was conducted by Wes Kenney and graduate conducting student, Andrew Mendizabal. Maestro Kenney spoke several times during the concert, conveying how […]
Mendelssohn Trio Summer 2019 European Tour
The Mendelssohn Trio performed several concerts this summer in Europe. The trio, formed in 1988, is named after CSU faculty member Barbara Thiem’s great grandfather, Franz von Mendelssohn, nephew of the German composer Felix Mendelssohn of the early Romantic period. The group also features Erik Peterson on violin, and Theodor Lichmann on piano The trio […]
Artists-in-Residence
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.
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.