The Orchestral Studies program prepares students majoring in strings, woodwinds, brass, harp or percussion for careers as orchestral musicians. Through weekly mock audition classes led by professional Chicago musicians, and additional private lessons focusing on orchestral repertoire, students will build and hone the skills they need to win auditions and thrive as Orchestral Musicians. CCPA's faculty is comprised of passionate teachers and performers who can be seen/heard on stages around the world, including here in Chicago with organizations such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Orchestral Studies students will participate in a curriculum focused on preparing them to take Orchestral Auditions, and to thrive in an Orchestral setting. Students will receive Weekly Orchestral Excerpt Lessons in addition to their regular Applied Lessons, and will participate in a weekly Mock Audition Class led by CCPA Faculty, as well as guest musicians from the Midwest area. Chamber music and ensemble studies are integrated into the curriculum, giving students regular opportunities to collaborate with students and faculty of other instruments.
Which department am I in?
Chicago College of Performing Arts
Study options
Full Time
(2 Years)
Tuition fees
$34,169.50 (28,83,016)
per year
Start date
August 2027
Venue
Chicago Campus
430 S. Michigan Ave,,
Chicago,
Illinois,
60605, United States
Full Time
(2 Years)
Tuition fees
$34,169.50 (28,83,016)
per year
Application deadline
01/11/2026
Start date
January 2027
Venue
Chicago Campus
430 S. Michigan Ave,,
Chicago,
Illinois,
60605, United States
Entry requirements
For international students
Chicago College of Performing Arts applicants to BM, BMA, MM, MA, PD, and PED programs must submit an artistic application with the following supplemental materials: Artistic Application & Application Fee (via GetAcceptd), 2 Letters of Recommendation, Official Transcripts from all previously attended schools/institutions, Optional: Official ACT/SAT scores (Freshman-only).