From Violin to Viola
In the past year, several CMPI fellows have decided to switch from violin to viola. We were wondering what contributed…
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What is a Performance Jury?
by Sheena Nickerson CMPI Fellows are expected to perform in two juries annually as part of the participation requirements. The technical jury evaluates the student’s technical ability by requiring the…
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Senior Feature: Sofia Villanueva
by Angelica Galicia CMPI Senior Sofia Villanueva has been playing the flute since she was in fourth grade at Edison Park Elementary school when the music program Music Education Services…
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Spotlight on CMPI Soon-to-be-Alumna Olivia Villa
by Wren Williams In an interview with Olivia Villa, soon to be a CMPI Alumna. Olivia Villa talks about her auditions and college application experiences, as well as her plans…
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A Composer You Should Know: Valerie Coleman
When we think of prototypical composers in history, we often think of the composer who excels in all arenas, skilled in both composition and performance, working tirelessly in multiple genres,…
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The CMPI Home Visit
CMPI is a highly-intensive musical training program with a narrow focus: preparing students from underrepresented backgrounds to successfully audition into top music schools as music performance majors. Because our mission…
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Catching up with Alumna Darlyne Hidalgo
by Angelica Galicia This month, I had the privilege of meeting up with CMPI French Horn alumna Darlyne Hidalgo on a cold Saturday morning near the DePaul campus. Darlyne is…
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Una conversación con Darlyne Hidalgo
por Angelica Galicia Este mes, tuve el privilegio de reunirme con la exalumna de cuerno frances de CMPI Darlyne Hidalgo en una fría mañana de sábado cerca del campus de…
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Sheku Kanneh-Mason Cello Masterclass
by Eric Nickerson On February 17th I had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play for my cello hero Sheku Kanneh-Mason. This was both an inspiring and triumphant experience for me. Sheku…
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Kinesiology Tape for Musicians
by Mateo Estanislao Kinesiology Tape is often referred to as Kinesio Tape, K Tape, and KT Tape. It is also marketed under brand names like RockTape, Spider Tech, and Mueller.…
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Affiliate Partner Opportunities for CMPI Fellows
While many CMPI Affiliate Partners host ongoing programming for their own students, some also have opportunities that are open to all area students. In this listing, we will feature some…
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Preview of 2024 National Pathways Festival and Equity Arc Summit
We are excited to announce that eight CMPI fellows have been chosen as National Pathways Festival Orchestra (NPFO) fellows for 2024. NPFO is a program of Equity Arc, whose mission…
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Equity Arc (Formerly NIMAN) Common Summer Study Application and National Pathways Festival
Equity Arc, formerly NIMAN, is an organization created to support young musicians from historically underrepresented backgrounds in classical music. The program brings together students from musical Pathway programs like CMPI…
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Musical New Year’s Resolutions
CMPI asked our fellows to come up with some New Year’s Resolutions related to their playing, practicing, or other musical endeavors. Here are just a few from our string players:…
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A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and experience! CMPI Fellows Traveled to Havana, Cuba
by Wren Williams, parent of Javier Irizarry, Violin The journey to Cuba marked a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel to Cuba with a select group of American peers and nationally recognized teaching artists,…
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A Parent’s Perspective on Injuries
by Lorie Estanislao, alumni parent As the parent of an alum, I was fortunate to attend the first 2023-4 CMPI family meeting on injury prevention with my son Mateo. Mateo…
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El Proceso del Jurado de CMPI
por Angelica Galicia ¿Acabas de participar en tu primer jurado de CMPI? ¿O te consideras un miembro experto del jurado? ¿Y qué es exactamente un jurado? ¿Hay un veredicto de…
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The CMPI Jury Process
by Angelica Galicia Did you just participate in your first CMPI jury? Or do you consider yourself a seasoned jury participant? And what exactly is a jury? Is there a…
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Writing College Essays, Start Early!!!
by Javier Irizarry, CMPI Violin Fellow Crafting a college essay can be a daunting task, particularly for those who underestimate the substantial workload involved. My initial attempt at creating a…
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Purchasing An Orchestral Instrument, from a Parent’s Perspective
by Sheena Nickerson Parent of Eric Nickerson, CMPI Fellow I noticed it was time to upgrade my son’s instrument when he developed intense back pain from having to work very…
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Health and Wellness Column: Warming Up, Stretching, and Cooling Down
This month debuts a new health and wellness feature that we plan to include in upcoming editions of the newsletter. Because health and wellness, especially in relation to injuries and…
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A Lesson in Despairing Circumstances: Why Injury is the Best Teacher
CMPI Alumnus and double bassist, Mateo Estanislao, has had a rough two years of injury, rehabilitation, and rebuilding his bass playing. After being diagnosed with elbow tendinitis in January 2022,…
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Applications for New CMPI Fellows Are Open!
It’s that time of year again! We are excited to have opened applications for our 2024-25 student cohort, with an application deadline of February 5, 2024. In honor of CMPI’s…
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Body Awareness: Methods of Preventing and Treating Pain in Musicians
This month CMPI is focusing on musician health, including a community meeting run by a physical therapist (PT) and occupational therapist (OT). While PTs and OTs are essential for treating…
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CMPI 2023-24 Season Preview
In its fifth year of operation, CMPI continues to bring incomparable musical experiences to its fellows and the larger Chicago community. We will highlight some of the amazing musical opportunities…
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Insider Knowledge and Validation from Violin and Viola Mentor Roslyn Green
Violin and Viola Mentor Roslyn Green is certainly keeping busy! She’s starting her second season as the Principal Viola of the Des Moines Symphony, a position which has helped her…
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Fellow Mahalia Hernandez in Pursuit of a New Violin
My name is Mahalia Hernandez, I am a 17-year-old violinist, and I am passionate about pursuing music in college and as a career. I am a fellow of the Chicago…
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Fellow Eric Nickerson’s Quest for a New Cello
My name is Eric Nickerson and I am an aspiring orchestral cellist. I have been playing the cello for eight years now and have loved every moment of it. I…
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Hanna Marszalek’s Summer at Philadelphia International Music Festival
Hello, I am Hanna Marszalek, and I'm now a Harry D. Jacobs High School freshman. I wanted to share my experience at the Philadelphia International Music Festival’s (PIMF) Solo Performance…
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Meet CMPI Project Manager Sarah Vander Ploeg
Sarah Vander Ploeg joined the CMPI staff team in late June of 2022, but is grateful to have been around the program since the first student cohort started in 2019,…
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Opening Doors 2023
CMPI is pleased to announce our second-annual fundraising event, Opening Doors 2023! We look forward to gathering in Symphony Center’s spacious Buntrock Hall on Wednesday, October 11 at 6:30pm for…
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Keeping Open the Doors of Possibility: Student Navigator Becca Dora
Student Navigator Becca Dora is an oboist, teacher, and arts administrator who is passionate about advancing equity in classical music. She originally came to CMPI from Ravinia’s El Sistema program…
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CMPI 2023 Kick-Off at Ravinia
For the third year in a row, our friends at the Ravinia Festival welcomed us onto their lawn for an evening of music and community. We shared a picnic and…
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How to Obtain an Instrument You Cannot Afford
Instruments are expensive. Really, extraordinarily expensive. This is especially true for string instruments, with instruments suitable for college study running a minimum of $10,000. For the most advanced students, the…
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Creating Your Student Resume, Curriculum Vitae (CV), and Repertoire List
When students are first learning their instruments, they most likely are not thinking about the documents they will need when they audition for summer programs, competitions, jobs, and colleges. However,…
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Where in the World are CMPI Fellows This Summer?
Summer is a time for young musicians to focus exclusively on honing their craft, and CMPI Fellows willingly embrace this fun and exciting time. This year, CMPI is sending fellows…
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Senior Oboe Fellow Zachary Allen’s CMPI Journey
As I look back on my time in CMPI, I can’t believe how fast the last four years have gone by. I first joined CMPI in 8th grade. Five years…
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Senior Violin Fellow Ella Saputra Reflects on Her CMPI Experience
My name is Ella Saputra, and I am an eighteen-year-old violinist from Schaumburg, IL. I am a recently graduated senior from James B. Conant High School and have been involved…
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Flutist Anika Veda: From CMPI Alum to Intern
Anika Veda is an alum of CMPI who graduated along with the class of 2022. Having completed her first year studying Flute performance at Rice University, she joins the CMPI…
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Congratulations Class of 2023!
The CMPI Class of 2023 is off to great places! Please help us celebrate their accomplishments and their future successes. Would you like to make a gift to support CMPI?
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The Importance of Every Note: Trombone Mentor Hugo Saavedra
Trombonist Hugo Saavedra is exceptionally busy, even by musician standards. Not only does he perform in ensembles including the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, Kalamazoo Symphony, and others in the area,…
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Violin Fellow Amarin Sharma on Handling a Playing Injury
Hello! My name is Amarin Sharma and I am a current senior. I have been playing the violin for the past 10 years and I would like to share my…
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Practice-a-Thon 2023 Success!
Practice-a-Thon 2023 is officially complete! We’ve enjoyed seeing many of your videos and hearing how this process has helped you feel more comfortable sharing your music-making with others. While we…
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CMPI Alumni Provide Advice to Current Fellows
Parent Eugenia Johnson wrote this article about her perceptions of a recent Community Meeting with CMPI alumni. This month’s Community Meeting featured previous CMPI fellows. It was great to see…
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CMPI Senior College Acceptances
This year CMPI has been happy to support 15 seniors through their application, preparation, and auditions for schools across the country. Our students found themselves auditioning at a great range…
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Auditioning for CMPI…and Meet This Year’s Successful Applicants!
We’ve talked a lot about all the accomplishments of CMPI students, but have you ever wondered what the process is like to become a CMPI fellow? This article will take…
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Bassoon Mentor Ben Roidl-Ward and “Team Fabrizio”
Leer en español abajo Note: Angelica Galica, parent to CMPI Bassoon Fellow Fabrizio Milcent, wrote this piece about her son and his mentor, Ben Roidl-Ward. One of the advantages…
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CMPI Fellows Perform in 2023 CSO Youth in Music Festival Orchestra
The Youth in Music Festival Orchestra, sponsored by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Negaunee Music Institute, featured more than 50 advanced students from Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras and CMPI. Participating CMPI…
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CMPI Practice-a-Thon Still Needs Your Support!
CMPI fellows are spending their first 100 days of 2023 recording a snippet of regular practice to share their musical growth. Day in and day out, CMPI is there to…
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Bass Fellow Mateo Estanislao’s Experience Playing in the National Pathways Festival Orchestra
Seven fellows and multiple CMPI staff members traveled to Cincinnati from March 16-19 for the Equity Arc Annual Convening and National Pathways Festival Orchestra. The orchestra included CMPI fellows Ella…
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CMPI Fellows Fundraise for Instruments
An unfortunate fact of becoming a musician is that it can be really expensive, especially to purchase an instrument. It is not uncommon for some professional level instruments to cost…
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Finding Your Voice with CMPI Oboe Faculty Erica Anderson
Erica Anderson’s approach to classical music is personal. She says, “It’s about finding your voice and putting your voice into the music that is given. You are being yourself, and…
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Preparing for Competitions with Violin Fellow Javier Irizarry
Hello, I am Javier, and I am a violinist. I want to share information about my preparation for competitions and how I choose my repertoire efficiently. This past year, I…
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CMPI Fellows Celebrate Martin Luther King Day and Black History Month in Performance
Chicago offered CMPI Fellows a delightful array of performances and concerts in honor of both Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday and Black History Month. First up was Evanston’s Martin Luther…
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Viola Fellow Leo Rodriguez on Developing a Practice Schedule
My name is Dubravko Leonardo Rodriguez. I am a senior violist attending New Trier Township High School. It has been very busy for our seniors this year! In addition, with…
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Living the Family Business: Trombone Fellow Owen Riordan
My musical career started almost immediately as I was brought home from the hospital. I was raised in a musical household, and the constant melodies and fragments of solos, excerpts,…
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Time For Large Ensemble and Program Auditions!
CMPI Fellows who are in high school are required to participate in an auditioned large ensemble, but fulfilling this requirement takes a bit of foresight, as many programs hold auditions…
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Support the CMPI Practice-a-Thon!
CMPI fellows are spending their first 100 days of 2023 recording a snippet of regular practice to share their musical growth. Day in and day out, CMPI is there to…
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NIMAN’s Common Application for Summer Study and Upcoming National Pathways Festival
While CMPI works with young musicians in the Chicago area, there are many similar organizations around the country doing equally amazing work in their cities. Uniting these many organizations and…
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Mentor Khelsey Zarraga: Give Yourself Some Grace
Khelsey Zarraga takes part in a variety of work: she is a freelancing violinist, teacher, music administrator, and an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Raised in the suburbs…
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Tips for the Future from Senior Violin Fellow Evan Campbell
The beginning of my journey in music started in first grade. My school was very small; there were only about 40 students in my entire eighth grade graduation class, but…
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Moved to Tears: A Fellow Reports on Chicago Sinfonietta’s NEXT Concert
CMPI Fellow Andrei Nague attended Chicago Sinfonietta’s NEXT Concert, conducted by Mei-Ann Chen this past September. Here are his thoughts on the concert. The first selection of the Sinfonietta’s program,…
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An Interview with Fellow Natalia Noriega on the Fortissima Program
Fortissima is an artistic and leadership development program at the Colburn School for high school age young women from underrepresented minorities in classical music. This 6-month program for 10 young…
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Senior Fellow Sameer Agrawal on Practicing Large Amounts of Repertoire
My name is Sameer Agrawal and I am a 17-year-old violinist from Albany Park in Chicago. I am a senior at Northside College Prep and I study at the Music…
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Writing a Bio for a Precollege Classical Musician
One of the very first assignments given to CMPI Fellows is to write a bio about themselves. For Fellows who have never written a bio, it can be a daunting…
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The Person I am Today: The Story of Percussionist Aleo Esparza
I will always remember the time when I fell in love with percussion. It was at my sister’s middle school Jazz Band concert and seven-year-old me was sitting in the…
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CMPI is Opening Doors: Scenes from Our Benefit
CMPI held our first in-person benefit event, “Opening Doors,” on Wednesday, October 26 in Symphony Center’s Buntrock Hall. A celebration of diversity and excellence in classical music, the evening featured…
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Mentoring with Violinist Emelinda Escobar
Parent Kenyetta Giles Haynes interviewed violinist and CMPI Mentor Emelina Escobar. Their conversation is below. When I typed your name into my browser one of the first things to pop…
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Tuba Camp Times Two!
By Pierre Ngoy Thanks to the recommendation and assistance from my private teacher Scott Tegge, I was able to attend two band camps over the summer: The Illinois Summer Youth…
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Hitting All the Right Notes: Senior Percussion Fellow Kevin Reyes
Hello CMPI community! My name is Kevin Reyes, a 17-year-old percussionist from the Gage Park area of Chicago on the southside. I am currently a senior at Chicago Military Academy…
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A CMPI Fellow Reviews a Performance by Another CMPI Fellow
Violin Fellow Mahalia Hernandez attended and reviewed a concert that just happened to include another CMPI Fellow, cellist Jan Vargas Nedvetsky, as a soloist. Here are her reflections. The Oistrakh…
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Isabel Armenta’s Experience with the Percussion Scholarship Program
My name is Isabel Armenta and I am a 16-year-old percussionist who is part of the Percussion Scholarship Program (PSP). PSP is an intensive weekly percussion instruction program on a…
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CYSO Tour Reflections with CMPI Fellow Elena Miller
CMPI currently has 18 fellows who participate in a Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra ensemble. This summer, the CYSO Symphony Orchestra went on a European tour to Berlin, Leipzig, Prague, and…
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Flute Fellow Kaylee Johnson’s Experience with CMPI Steering Partner ChiArts
Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) is part of CMPI’s Steering Team, providing support to students within CMPI and the program as a whole. ChiArts is Chicago’s first public…
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Welcome New CMPI Fellows!
This year, CMPI welcomes nine new fellows, including five violinists, a violist, a cellist, a flutist, and a bass trombonist. They range in age from sixth to eleventh grade and…
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Music Camp Experience at Fulton Summer Music Academy
By Amarin Sharma In July 2022, I attended a 4-week intensive strings music camp at the Fulton Summer Music Academy (FSMA) at Loyola University in Chicago. After the highly selective…
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My Summer at Brevard Music Center Summer Institute
By Aleo Esparza This summer, I spent six weeks in Brevard, North Carolina at Brevard Music Center Summer Institute studying classical percussion. Brevard is an orchestrally focused summer program for…
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Thoughts on Sphinx Performance Academy at the Cleveland Institute of Music
By Akosua Haynes I loved my first (in person) year at Sphinx Performance Academy. For the past two years, I attended Sphinx Performance Academy (SPA) online, and I had high…
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A Summer at the Verbier Festival
By Ella Saputra For three weeks in July, I had the pleasure of attending the Verbier Festival as part of the Junior Orchestra (VFJO) in Verbier, Switzerland. As the first…
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CMPI Kickoff: How Maestro Miguel Prieto Changed My Perspective on Being a Musician
By Jonathan Martinez Growing up with three older brothers in the school band, I was always surrounded by music and wanted to know more about what it meant to be…
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My Summer at Interlochen Arts Camp
By Hanna Marszalek The summer camp that I attended this year was at Interlochen Arts Camp. The program was Intermediate Orchestra and Wind Ensemble. The program lasted 3 weeks and…
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Broadly Mentoring: Flute Mentor Suzanne Hannau
CMPI parent Kenyetta Giles Haynes recently sat down to speak with Suzanne Hannau, CMPI flute mentor, to connect with her energy, enthusiasm, and effervescence. How long have you been with…
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Interview with Senior Violinist Alejandro Acosta
CMPI celebrates the 10 graduates of the class of 2022! CMPI Student Navigator Becca Dora had the privilege of sitting down with one of these graduates to discuss everything from…
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An Interview with Alum Xavier Perry
Tell us about yourself! (Name, instrument, school, teacher, interests) I'm Xavier Perry, I'm 19, and I'm about to be a sophomore at Drake University. I'm majoring in Music Performance on…
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Sending CMPI Fellows Out into the World!
Summer marks the time when CMPI Fellows begin to leave their homes in the Chicago area and venture out into the world. For seniors, this is a time to send…
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Violin Faculty Member and Mentor Iris Wei
For this month’s faculty feature, student navigator Emory Freeman had the pleasure of interviewing violinist Iris Wei. An active educator, Iris Wei maintains a violin studio of over forty students…
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Finding Balance with Trombone Fellow Owen Riordan
The Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative website lists each of its current fellows, arranged alphabetically by first name; you will find their names, photos, and a short bio that states the…
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The Strum Experience with Jessie Montgomery
Few things are more exciting for a young classical musician than a masterclass with a composer. Members of the CMPI Quartet, violinists Sameer Agrawal and Esme Arias-Kim, violist Ella Saputra,…
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Inspiration from Flute Faculty Member Marianna Gariazzo
For this month’s faculty feature, Student Navigator Emory Freeman had the pleasure of interviewing Mariana Gariazzo. In addition to teaching at CMPI, Mariana Gariazzo is a Teaching Associate in Flute…
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An Interview with Violin Alum Nicole Kwasny
Tell us about yourself! I’m Nicole Kwasny, a freshman at Depaul, majoring in music performance at the violin studying with professor I-Hao Lee. Do you have a favorite composer? What…
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Mindful Practicing and Preparation: Mind Over Finger with Renée-Paule Gauthier
One of the most challenging parts of becoming a classical musician is the difficulty in practicing, preparing for, and taking auditions. CMPI Fellows are fortunate to have the help of…
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Peer Interviews: Zach Allen and Akosua Haynes
This month CMPI includes another peer-to-peer interview between fellows. Enjoy this pair of interviews between oboe fellow Zach Allen and cello fellow Akosua Haynes. What grade are you in and…
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“This is Just the Beginning”: Chicago Youth in Music Festival and National Summit Overview
The work of Pathways programs is not new; organizations like the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Talent Development Program have been around for decades, supporting the musical growth of students from underrepresented…
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Immersed in Music: Alum Rafael Noriega
CMPI Alum Rafael Noriega is a passionate bass trombonist studying music performance at the Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM). He is happy to be studying with the acting bass trombonist…
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An Interview with Pianist Collaborator Beilin Han
One of the aspects that makes CMPI so special is the opportunity fellows get to perform and collaborate with world-class professional pianists. Student Navigator Becca Dora sat down with pianist…
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NIMAN: Partner for Good
The students and families of Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative (CMPI) are all keenly aware of the amazing work that CMPI does in the community. From their own first-hand experience, each…
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An Interview with Mentor Robyn Smith
For this month’s mentor feature, Student Navigator Emory Freeman had the pleasure of interviewing the newly appointed second trombonist of the Michigan Opera Theatre, Robyn Smith. Robyn recently graduated with…
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Celebrating the Chicago Youth in Music Festival Orchestra!
From April 9-11, Chicago had the honor of hosting the first Youth in Music Festival and National Pathways Summit. While the Youth in Music Festival Orchestra has been a tradition…
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The Success of Percussion Faculty Simón Gómez Gallego
What does it take to become a successful musician? In our growing CMPI community of exceptionally talented young musicians and their parents, we are blessed with a plethora of support…
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Keep Performing! An Interview with Oboe Alum Oliver Talukder
CMPI Alum Oliver Talukder is in his second year at the Curtis Institute of Music as an Oboe performance major. He is an active member of the music community at…
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Mentor Panel on Musical Career Paths
In CMPI’s February community meeting, our fellows got the chance to learn more about possible career paths in music from CMPI mentors James Sanders, Kevin Gupana, Lindsey Sharpe, and Robyn…
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CMPI Students Benefit From New Instruments
One of the many advantages of being a CMPI fellow is having access to a stipend specifically for instrument purchase. Here is a sampling of some of the instruments fellows…
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Thoughts on Preparation from Violin Fellow Esme Arias-Kim
This past fall, I was very lucky to take part in multiple in-person music experiences. Each has helped shape different aspects of me as a violinist and as an artist.…
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Peer Interviews: Heidi Murillo and Samuella Booker-Alley
This month CMPI is including the first of several peer-to-peer interviews between fellows. Enjoy this pair of interviews between clarinet fellow Samuella Booker-Alley and violin fellow Heidi Murillo. When did…
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Flute Alumna Michelle Brannon’s College Experience
For Michelle Brannon, her start at the University of Colorado’s School of Music has been all about making connections in the tight-knit music community that she has found in Boulder.…
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CMPI Takes on ILMEA!
The Illinois Music Education Association offers a district festival experience for Elementary through Senior High students in Illinois. CMPI is so grateful to have had students attend the ILMEA conference…
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Continuing the Legacy: Student Navigator Emory Freeman
I have always been a dreamer. But growing up in segregation, to have fulfilled my personal dreams and to have helped to found an entity that brings dreams to others,…
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Having it All: Cello Mentor Lindsey Sharpe
Cellist and CMPI mentor Lindsey Sharpe embodies an important truth about professional musicians: “Musicians are hustlers,” she explained. “I will always have more than one job. I want to have…
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Compositional Intersectionality: Florence Price
As Black History Month draws to a close and we are about to embark on Women’s History Month, one pioneering composer neatly straddles the intersection: Florence Price (1887-1953). Born in…
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Every Moment is Intentional: Viola Faculty Member Danny Lai
Chicago Symphony Orchestra violist and CMPI faculty member Danny Lai vividly recalls the moment when he decided to make classical music his career choice. He was playing in a high…
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CMPI’s Collaborative Winter Playlist!
New student navigator Emory Freeman tells us about CMPI’s curated – but also collaborative – winter playlist. Winter is the most beautiful time as the snow falls, the hot chocolate…
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The Cycle of Mentorship: A Conversation with Steven Gooden
Clarinetist and CMPI mentor Steven Gooden wears many hats. He’s the Director of Bands at Proviso Math and Science Academy, IVM Band Director, Symphonic Band Conductor and Woodwind Department Chair…
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Meet CMPI Newsletter’s Parent Volunteers
“There is immense power when a group of people with similar interests gets together to work toward the same goals.” – Idowu Koyenikan CMPI parents are as different from one…
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Catching up with Alumna Meli Everson
Mindfulness and preparation are central to Meli’s mindset concerning the study of music. A freshman at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, she studies Clarinet Performance and has found a…
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CMPI Practice-A-Thon 2022
I’m excited to announce the first ever CMPI Practice-A-Thon, taking place between January 1, 2022 and March 31, 2022. All participants have or will create their own MobileCause page where…
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Learning from the Best: A Masterclass with Hilary Hahn
Sameer Agrawal, a CMPI Violin Fellow, describes his experiences at a CMPI masterclass with violinist Hilary Hahn. On December 11, 2021, I was one of three CMPI violin fellows who…
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A Masterclass with Violinist Ray Chen
CMPI Violin Fellow Aiden Daniels recounts his experience from December 1, 2021, when he played on a masterclass for violin superstar Ray Chen. I recently had the great opportunity to…
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Interview with Violin Fellow Autymn Williams
Parent Kenyetta Giles Haynes interviewed senior violin fellow Autymn Williams recently. Here is their conversation. Autymn, you started with CMPI three years ago as an inaugural fellow. How has the…
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The CMPI Advisory Process
Twice a year, each CMPI fellow participates in what is perhaps the most integral part of CMPI: the Advisory. What is the Advisory? The Advisory is simply a meeting that…
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Being There: Cello Faculty Member David Cunliffe
In this article, we talk with cello faculty member David Cunliffe on the intersection between the unique and the universal in the teaching of music, and the importance of showing…
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Genius and Darkness: Beethoven’s Life and Music
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated composers in history, often thought of as a musical genius. But Beethoven also possessed a brooding affect and grappled…
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Clarinet Mentor Elizandro Garcia-Montoya
In this month's mentor feature, we take a glance into Elizandro Garcia-Montoya's journey in music. Elizandro's vast array of experience is immediately noticeable. He brings a great depth of knowledge,…
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Consistency is Key: Reflections from Alumna Olivia Molina
Alumna Olivia Molina approaches each day with the goal of trying to be better than the day before, saying, “consistency is key.” Through her first semester studying violin at Oberlin…
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CMPI Takes on the Percussive Arts Society International Convention
The Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) takes place every year in Indianapolis, IN. Percussionists from around the globe gather to participate in panel discussions, attend workshops and performances, participate…
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A Chat with Percussion Faculty Member Michael Kozakis
Student Navigator Jennifer Woodrum had the opportunity to sit down at the PASIC convention in Indianapolis this past weekend with CMPI Faculty member, Michael Kozakis. Michael serves on the percussion…
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Mozart’s Delightful Melodies
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) was quite a character, notorious for his crude humor and bawdy vocal canons. Despite his idiosyncratic nature, he was equally skilled in composing instrumental music, sublime…
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A Conversation with CMPI Mentor Seth Pae
In this month’s CMPI mentor feature, Seth Pae talks to us about his current music projects, mentors, and his belief in CMPI’s mission. Seth enjoys a diverse musical career playing,…
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Looking Forward and Back: Alum Amanda Perez
Amanda Perez is a violist who has dedicated herself to intensive study and seeking opportunities to grow whenever possible. A junior at Northern Illinois University, Amanda graduated from CMPI after…
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Competitions: Friend or Foe?
Many student musicians participate in numerous competitions growing up — and many do not. CMPI fellows follow this pattern, with a few fellows participating in numerous competitions, a larger number who…
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Also, A Composer: CMPI Fellow Jonathan Miller On Composition
Along with being a CMPI cellist, I have long held an interest in composing. When I was little, around age three or four, I would have lengthy, improvised jam sessions…
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Fellows Reflect on Recent Concerts
One of the perks of being a CMPI fellow is access to complimentary tickets throughout the year to attend Chicago Sinfonietta and Chicago Symphony Orchestra performances. CMPI fellows are required…
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Once-in-a-Lifetime: Parents Reflect on a Quartet Trip to France Amid a Pandemic
CMPI Student Navigator Jennifer Woodrum recently had the privilege of sitting down with Ayesha Shahid and Angela Whitfield — two fierce CMPI moms who know an amazing opportunity when they…
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From the CSO to CMPI: Faculty Violinist David Taylor
Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) assistant concertmaster David Taylor can be considered one of the living pillars of the classical music community in Chicago and beyond. He began his current role…
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A Multifaceted Violin Career: Mentor Caitlin Edwards
Music has always been an integral part of life for CMPI mentor Caitlin Edwards. Caitlin sang in her church choir as a young child and started playing the violin in…
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Interview with Alumnus Nando Cordeiro
When asked what advice he would give to current CMPI students, alumnus Nando Cordeiro said, “Be organized and mindful.” After his final year of study, auditions, and decision making, he…
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A Constant Friend: Unaccompanied Bach for Strings
When string players look at almost any audition list, they will see a commonality: a required movement or two of unaccompanied Bach. Violinists are typically asked to play from Bach’s…
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Staff Spotlight: James Hall, Program Manager
James Hall imagined being a part of an innovative program supporting gifted pre-college musicians from underrepresented backgrounds in the Chicagoland area long before the launch of CMPI. While working as…
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A Student Navigator Walks into a Recital
Student Navigator Jennifer Woodrum reflects on her recent attendance at CMPI fellow Ella Saputra’s recital. The day began like most other days with some peace and quiet, morning coffee and…
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Fall Preview for CMPI Seniors
Senior year of high school is always filled with lots of emotions — from excitement to utter fear — as students prepare for college, send in their applications, and get…
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Ravinia Kick-off Event!
An absolute highlight of our last month at CMPI has to be the Kick-off Event at Ravinia on September 8. CMPI families, mentors, and staff gathered on the Ravinia lawn…
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A New Class of Fellows for 2021-22
The 2021/22 academic year will see CMPI’s community grow from 93 fellows to 108. With the addition of two double bassists to our program, CMPI now has students who play…
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Teaching with a Growth Mindset: Faculty Spotlight on Davis King
Teachers who understand the unique needs and aspirations of each student and work with them in reaching their goals are the kind of teachers that become part of the success…
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Providing Mentorship: Violinist and Educator Danielle Simandl
Violinist and educator Danielle Simandl Danielle became involved with CMPI after catching up with our Student Navigator, Jennifer Woodrum. “We were performing together at a gig, and during a break, Jenny…
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CMPI Summer Camps – August Update
Continuing from our July edition, CMPI fellows share more experiences, wisdom and memorable moments from their summer camps in this article. They are sure to carry with them inspiration and…
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Navigating CMPI: A Conversation with Student Navigator Miguel Aguirre
Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative (CMPI) is blessed with an abundance of talented individuals. From our young fellows, to the seasoned teachers and faculty, to the committed staff who keep everything…
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CMPI and Ravinia: A Harmonious Partnership
A highlight of this past summer with CMPI has been our constant engagement with the Ravinia Summer Festival in Highland Park. Over the summer we have been lucky enough to…
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Faculty (and Parent!) Feature: Timothy Riordan, Trombone
CMPI trombone faculty member Timothy Riordan knows how to fix any technique problems his students face because he has encountered most of them himself. Introduced to the trombone at an…
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CMPI Statistics 2021-2022
As CMPI enters its third year of programming, 38 new students and families will be joining the program beginning September 1, 2021. Here are a few statistics about CMPI’s full…
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CMPI Summer Camps – July Update
Our fellows are enjoying this wonderful time of the year by immersing themselves not just in the sunshine but also in exceptional music, teachers, and the musical community. Yes! Summer…
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Know a Fellow: Xavier Perry
Exciting times are up ahead for our CMPI graduates who have successfully completed their college application journey. One such student is cellist Xavier Perry, who graduated from Kenwood Academy High…
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Staff Spotlight: Welcome New Student Navigator Jade Garcia!
For Jade Garcia, CMPI’s newest student navigator, all roads seemed to lead to CMPI. “ inspired me because it combined everything that I am passionate about — my love of…
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Teaching with Greatness: CMPI Faculty Member Sang Mee Lee
CMPI violin and chamber music faculty member Sang Mee Lee is in many ways the textbook definition of a model teacher. She certainly has the pedigree — including two degrees…
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A Catalyst for Change: Adrienne Thompson discusses a results-driven life
Adrienne Thompson knows a thing or two about tough love. The Chicago-native has made a name for herself by thriving in challenging situations, including working in the banking industry, raising…
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Picture Gallery: CMPI Family Day, June 6, 2021
CMPI celebrated a triumphant school year during a socially distanced Family Fun Day in early June.
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EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW: CMPI Juneteenth Celebration
Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative programming has been underway for nearly two years. As a new organization, CMPI’s initial focus was on creating an infrastructure of support for our families. The…
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Common Ground: A reflection with CMPI Mentor Ayriole Frost
The Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative engages some of the most committed musicians to mentor its talented young fellows, so that they can grow and reach their full potential. One such…
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Casting into Music: CMPI Faculty Member Michael Hining
Michael Hining has been launching the musical journeys of his students from his Oak Park studio for over 35 years. His enthusiasm for mentoring future artists is contagious. When asked…
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Know a Fellow: Nate Scott
Senior viola fellow Nate Scott finds inspiration in an unlikely place: “Something that inspires me as a musician is watching someone gush about what they love about a particular song…
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Know a Fellow: Bryce Kayser
CMPI Viola Fellow Bryce Kayser just finished his senior year of high school. Starting this fall, he will begin his undergraduate studies at the University of Colorado-Boulder! But before he…
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Catching up and looking ahead with CMPI alumni
This month we are catching up with the first class of CMPI graduates to see how their freshman year of college went. The alums offer some reflections on the past…
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Juneteenth Celebration: CMPI Commemorates Change
The Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative began its first year of programming in 2019, a year that now feels like a different world. It was before the onset of the COVID-19…
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Learning from the Maestro: Riccardo Muti Coaches CMPI Fellows
It has been quite awhile since Chicago Symphony Orchestra Music Director Riccardo Muti has been to Chicago’s Symphony Center, but on March 31, he returned—albeit in a virtual form—to coach…
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Nurturing Excellence: CMPI Faculty Member Hideko Amano
Ms. Hideko Amano discovered the sound of her future during a third grade music class back home, in her native Japan. “I became mesmerized by the flute solo of the…
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A Conversation with CMPI Mentor Alex Hoffman
Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative (CMPI) is home not just to some of the most talented middle- and high school musicians. CMPI also has become a common ground for some of…
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The Journey of a Flautist: CMPI fellow Miguel Rodriguez
A talented and aspiring flute performer, CMPI senior Miguel Rodriguez started his musical journey in fifth grade. After trying out numerous instruments, he felt a strong connection with the flute.…
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Top of the Class: CMPI seniors announce future plans
It has been a year... Of closed schools and remote learning. Of masks and social isolation. Of toilet paper and disinfectant shortages. Of Zoom family meetings and virtual lessons.…
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Know a Fellow: Olivia Molina
When the pandemic’s quarantine began, musical activities suddenly transitioned to virtual options. So, too, did the college application process. CMPI violin fellow Olivia Molina had to negotiate these factors throughout…
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Staff Spotlight: CMPI Student Navigator Jennifer Woodrum
Let's take a peek behind the curtain and get to know some of the fantastic Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative administration. First up? CMPI Student Navigator Jennifer Woodrum. Name: Jennifer Woodrum…
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My Buddy and Me: CMPI offers unique training partnership with Northwestern University
Throughout the Spring 2021 semester, Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative fellows have participated in a collaboration with the Northwestern University String Pedagogy Department. The 12 participating CMPI students have been paired…
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A Conversation with CMPI Mentor Brent Taghap
CMPI Mentor Brent Taghap began playing the violin at age five in his home state of Florida. Taghap recalls asking his parents for a violin after seeing a child playing…
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Signature Sound: Getting to know CMPI Faculty Member Desirée Ruhstrat
CMPI Violin Faculty Member Desirée Ruhstrat Desirée Ruhstrat’s journey as a violinist and educator began at age three-and-a-half, when she started her studies at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music. She…
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Know a Fellow: Nicole Kwasny
CMPI Senior Violin Fellow Nicole Kwasny | Image from Senn High Arts Twitter, June 2020 With college auditions behind her, violinist Nicole Kwasny is ready to take on the world.…
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Know a Fellow: Michelle Brannon
CMPI Senior Flute Fellow Michelle Brannon One of the goals of Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative is to ensure that each fellow can gain admission to a top music school or…
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Know a Fellow: Melissa Everson
CMPI Clarinet Fellow Melissa Everson lives by a motto: Just keep going. This seems like apt advice for everyone, especially as the world just surpassed the one-year anniversary of…
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CMPI fellows to play for Riccardo Muti
ABOVE: The CMPI String Quartet rehearses Verdi's Quartet in E minor. This winter, the Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative staff received a remarkable request: Maestro Riccardo Muti, esteemed music director of…
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Know a Fellow: Adriana Koch
Just as March brings with it a growing sense of excitement and positive vibes, so too does Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative Fellow Adriana Koch. A high school junior and oboist,…
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Sound Reasoning: A conversation with CMPI Coach Horacio Contreras
A celebrated concert cellist, chamber musician, pedagogue and scholar, Horacio Contreras first was exposed to music through the famed El Sistema music education program in his native country of Venezuela.…
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A light ahead: Welcome to the March CMPI Newsletter
Dear Friends and Family of the Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative, As we mark the one-year anniversary of the pandemic, let us take stock of where we are and, more importantly,…
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Dynamic Warm-up: CMPI fellows learn Alexander Technique
In January, the Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative hosted Chicago-based Alexander Technique teacher and flutist, Jill Burlingame. Burlingame came highly recommended by one of CMPI’s partner organizations, The Chicago Youth Symphony…
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A conversation with CMPI Mentor Kyle Dickson
Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative mentor Kyle Dickson’s musical interests began in grade school, in Detroit's public school system. He remembers going on field trips to watch orchestra concerts conducted by…
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Spanning Boundaries: A conversation with CMPI mentor James Sanders
Chicago-born-and-based violinist James Sanders has drawn inspiration from his mother’s Dominican heritage along with his classical pedigree to create a career with myriad successes in the jazz and orchestral worlds.…
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Celebrating the musical contributions of liberty, love, and Black Americans
Dear Friends and Family of the Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative, It seems like so much has changed since I wrote to you at the end of 2020: COVID vaccines are…
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The DOs and DON’Ts for Zoom Mock Auditions
Last month, CMPI hosted a series of Live, Over Zoom! Mock Auditions. The senior woodwinds and brass played for trumpet professor Leah Schumann from VanderCook College of Music, flute professor…
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Faculty Feature: William Buchman
Bill Buchman is an example of the career success and longevity possible in classical music, and that there are many paths one can take to get there. Bill has worked…
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Know a Fellow: Eric Bahena
CMPI Bassoon Fellow Eric Bahena "Make sure you start your college applications early," advises Eric Bahena, a senior bassoon fellow with the Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative. To date, Eric has…
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Know a Fellow: Miriam Kessler
CMPI Harp Fellow Miriam Kessler Sophomore Miriam Kessler is particularly unique when compared to other CMPI fellows -- she is CMPI’s only harpist! Ironically, she chose the harp at age…
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New instruments for CMPI Fellows!
New instruments for CMPI Fellows! As we get ready to usher in a New Year, several CMPI students from the 2020-2021 cohort have already used their instrument stipend to purchase…
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A conversation with CMPI mentor Kevin Gupana
Kevin Gupana distinctly remembers when he first got serious about the oboe. It was his freshman year of high school, at the annual holiday assembly. “The full orchestra was onstage,…
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Santa’s come early: Here’s your December CMPI newsletter!
Dear Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative community, Can you imagine a holiday season without music? From popular songs to church choirs to roaming carolers—and even some of those earworm commercial jingles—these…
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Know a Fellow: Zachary Allen
CMPI Oboe Fellow Zachary Allen CMPI fellows are truly extraordinary, in music and in life, as you will see in this Q & A with Zachary Allen. Zach is a…
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Know a Fellow: Noah Briones
During the summer break, CMPI Violin Fellow Noah Briones kept himself busy and active while staying at home. In the two summers prior to joining CMPI, Noah participated in Birch…
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Faculty Feature: Martine Benmann
Fostering Musicality: CMPI Faculty Member Martine Benmann CMPI Faculty Member Martine Benmann Cellist and pedagogue Martine Benmann has been immersed in music-making for quite literally her entire life. “Although my…
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Introducing CMPI Faculty Member Orit Carpenter
Free your mind and the breaths will follow A screen grab of CMPI Performance Psychologist Dr. Orit Carpenter, from her summer 2020 Zoom lecture to the program’s senior fellows. “Working…
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Know a Fellow: Rafael Noriega
It’s that time of year! The weather is changing, clothing styles are back to layering, and high school seniors are stressing. Well, not too much, hopefully. The Chicago Musical Pathways…
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Know a Fellow: Nando Cordeiro
CMPI Fellow Nando Corderio CMPI trumpet fellow Nando Cordeiro takes us on his journey of the last few months, transitioning to online learning, taking trial lessons while at the same…
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Know a Fellow: Ixchel Camacho
CMPI Violin Fellow Ixchel Camacho performs as a member of the Orquesta la Tezoateca This year, CMPI seniors are adapting to the new virtual process of engaging prospective colleges. For…
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Know a Fellow: Kailie Holliday
CMPI Fellow Kailie Holliday Cellist Kailie Holliday is certainly making the most of her final year of high school. Not only is she playing in the Merit School of Music…
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Faculty Feature: Lucinda Ali-Landing
Generational Talent: CMPI Faculty Member Lucinda Ali-Landing Lucinda Ali-Landing wears many hats in Chicago’s music community — she is a violinist, educator, entrepreneur, and advocate. So it follows naturally that…
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Go Fund Them: Help finance new instruments for CMPI fellows
Four CMPI fellows, Sameer Agrawal (violin, grade 9), Abby Lopez (bassoon, grade 12), Jonathan Miller (cello, grade 9) and Oliver Talukder (oboe, grade 12), were featured on WFMT’s Introductions on Saturday, December…
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Zoomed In: CMPI offers elite masterclasses in 20-21
The fall semester has been packed with incredible masterclass performance opportunities for CMPI fellows. The busy calendar of activities launched on October 5, with a masterclass led by Los Angeles Philharmonic violinist…
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This #GivingTuesday, give the gift of music, opportunity, and access.
Dear Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative community, The holiday season is upon us! I hope everyone had a meaningful and safe Thanksgiving and/or Native American Heritage Days. I will not lament…
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CMPI Announces Inaugural Class
Seven Music Education Organizations Come Together to Support Young Musicians From Traditionally Underrepresented Communities in the Greater Chicago Area.
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Fall Kickoff: Welcome 2020/2021 CMPI Fellows
Four CMPI fellows, Sameer Agrawal (violin, grade 9), Abby Lopez (bassoon, grade 12), Jonathan Miller (cello, grade 9) and Oliver Talukder (oboe, grade 12), were featured on WFMT’s Introductions on Saturday, December…
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Know a Fellow: Ella Saputra
Sixteen-year-old violinist Ella Saputra is already well on her way toward a professional career. She has performed solo with orchestras several times, including twice with Midwest Young Artists Conservatory ensembles,…
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Alumni Spotlight: Oliver Talukder
CMPI inaugural fellow Oliver Talukder is one of only 12 musicians chosen to join the incoming undergraduate class of the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music this school year. Now a…
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Know a Fellow: Anika Veda
CMPI flute fellow Anika Veda already has amassed several musical honors, including a performance at Carnegie Hall as the winner of the 2019 American Protégé Music Talent Competition. This Halloween–October…
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CMPI Faculty Member Dr. Tanya Lesinksy Carey
Building Bridges: CMPI Faculty Member Dr. Tanya Lesinksy Carey Acclaimed cello instructor Tanya Lesinsky Carey has been helping students reach their full musical potential for decades. Her students have won…
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Virtually Proficient: CMPI Fellows offer insights on upcoming virtual recital
Recitals and gatherings at CMPI will be virtual through January, and possibly through the end of the school year. A year ago, the suggestion of a virtual recital would have…
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Read all about it! CMPI in the news, Summer 2020
CMPI received a lot of attention from the media this summer! In case you missed any of it, here are some quick links to get you all caught up… CMPI…
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Program Overview
What is CMPI? Made possible by a $3.5 million grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the mission of the Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative (CMPI) is to identify and develop…
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Solo with ensemble: Fellows recall concerto experiences
For many musicians, the pinnacle of accomplishment is performing as a soloist with an orchestra. Several CMPI students have already achieved this tremendous milestone and were kind enough to share…
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Summer Reflections: CMPI Summer 2020
Summer Reflections: A look back at CMPI’s end-of-season activities Above: CMPI Fellow Julia Soto performs a socially distanced concerto with accompanist Beilin Han for the CMPI virtual recital on August…
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Alumni Spotlight: Abigail Lopez
ABOVE: CMPI alumna Abigail Lopez poses for a post-recital picture in Symphony Center’s Buntrock Hall. Recent CMPI alumna Abigail Lopez won’t need to travel far this fall to accomplish big…
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Know a Fellow: Brandon Harper
One day Brandon Harper just might compose music at the intersection of classical and jazz. The second-year CMPI percussion fellow is an elite youth musician in both genres. A recent…
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Alumni Spotlight: Amanda Perez
ABOVE: CMPI alumna Amanda Perez poses with her viola after a Fall 2019 recital. Six years ago, Amanda Perez picked up a viola for the first time. It was during…
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Welcome! A new school year, a new newsletter.
Welcome! A new school year, a new newsletter. Dear Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative Community, Greetings, and welcome to the second year of the Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative! As CMPI Project…
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[VIDEO] Chicago Musical Pathways Is…
In this video, Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative (CMPI) fellows, parents, and mentors breakdown the components of the program and share what the pathway means to them.
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Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative fellows featured on WFMT’s “Introductions”
Four CMPI fellows, Sameer Agrawal (violin, grade 9), Abby Lopez (bassoon, grade 12), Jonathan Miller (cello, grade 9) and Oliver Talukder (oboe, grade 12), were featured on WFMT’s Introductions on Saturday, December…
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[VIDEO] CMPI featured on NBC 5/Telemundo
Two CMPI fellows, Abby Lopez (bassoon, grade 12) and Rafael Noriega (bass trombone, grade 11), speak to the impact and importance of this new initiative. Watch the video below to…
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Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative Trumpets New Leader
Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative (CMPI), the newly-established training program for talented student musicians from traditionally underrepresented communities, is proud to announce that music education veteran Adrienne Thompson will lead the…
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