CIYS Ensembles

The past 4 years have seen the addition of a second honors String Quartet, the Flute Choir and Clarinet Choir, bringing our total number of small ensembles to 6. This is in addition to our already established Percussion Ensemble and Brass Ensemble. The new ensembles reflect a decision to give opportunity for the less-featured instruments in our orchestras to grow their musical skills, have some fun, and play selections arranged especially for their instrument. These ensembles are all professionally coached , and have the opportunity to perform in our ensemble concerts as well as other engagements.

Central Illinois Percussion Ensemble

The Central Illinois Percussion Ensemble consists of percussionists from both the CIYS and the CICO Orchestras and was formed during the 1997-1998 season. The mission is for students to perform percussion ensemble literature that not only showcases the percussion section and its players, but allows them to enhance their performing abilities.

Central Illinois Brass Ensemble

The Central Illinois Brass Ensemble was formed in January 2006 to provide additional educational and enrichment opportunities for the brass students participating in the Concert Orchestra and Youth Symphony as well as local students not currently playing in either orchestra. Building their skills while showcasing their talents, the Brass Ensemble helps students transition from playing in a symphonic band to playing in a symphony orchestra.

Central Illinois Flute Choir
Central Illinois Clarinet Choir

Formed in January of 2008 , these ensembles provide additional educational and enrichment opportunities for the brass, flute and clarinet students participating in CICO and CIYS as well as local students not currently playing in either orchestra. Serving as another performance option for these musicians and showcasing their talents, these ensembles add depth to the symphonies and help students transition from playing in a symphonic band to playing in a symphony orchestra.

Central Illinois Honors String Quartets

The Central Illinois Honors Quartets are formed from the top string players. These ensembles give the organization's most advanced players further enrichment and provide additional performance experiences.

Interested in auditioning for a small ensemble or know someone who might be? It's not too late! Students who participate in the brass and percussion ensembles, clarinet choir or flute choir do not have to be members of one of our orchestras. Email our CIYS Manager, or call 1-888-218-4650 to schedule an audition.

And do you know the ensembles are for hire? Have an upcoming social event where you'd like a little music? Just contact our orchestra manager for details: (ciysmanager2@gmail.com) or 1-888-218-4650. Help us spread the word and promote the fine work of our students!

The Small Ensembles are partially supported from a grant from the Morton Community Foundation.

Rehearsal Schedule

Percussion Ensemble: Rehearsals will normally take place from 6-7 at First Mennonite Church. Please plan to arrive at 5:45 so that you have ample time to move percussion equipment up to your rehearsal space so that rehearsal can begin promptly at 6.

Brass Ensemble: Rehearsals will normally take place from 5:30-6:30 at Advent Lutheran Church in Morton.

Flute Choir: Rehearsals will normally take place from 5:30-6:30 at First Mennonite Church.

Clarinet Choir: Rehearsals will normally take place from 5:30-6:30 at Advent Lutheran Church. Brass Quintet: Rehearsals will take place from 5:30-6:30 at Advent Lutheran Church.

String Quartets: Rehearsals will take place from 6-7 at First Mennonite Church.
All Ensembles please refer to the included calendar, as your rehearsals do not meet every week.