Adult Academy

Discover the joy of chamber music through a coaching program designed exclusively for adult amateur musicians. The program offers a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of chamber music.

Adult Academy 2025–2026

During the fall and spring semesters, avocational musicians (ages 18 & up) are matched into ensembles, typically 3–5 players, according to their level, and assigned a teaching artist. Coaching sessions take place on Tuesday evenings at Westover Hills Church of Christ (8332 Mesa Drive).

The program is open to intermediate to advanced woodwind, brass, string, and piano players. If for any reason a musician is not able to be placed in an appropriate ensemble before the semester begins a full refund will be issued. Pre-formed ensembles are also encouraged to register!


If you’re considering the program, and want to hear some of the current Adult Academy musicians, we invite you to the Summer Workshop Adult Division concert:  Wednesday, July 23 | 7:30 PM | Bates Recital Hall, 2406 Robert Dedman Drive. Admission is free.

As part of the program, participants will receive:

  • Four 60-minute coaching sessions by local teaching artists throughout each concert cycle (two cycles in the fall and two in the spring)
  • A masterclass towards the end of the cycle
  • A final concert at the end of the cycle
  • FREE and discounted tickets to ACMC’s 2025–2026 Concert Season during the semester (fall or spring) enrolled

Benefits of chamber music:

  • Meet and play with other musicians that have a similar passion for music
  • Expand your listening skills by playing a unique part in a small ensemble
  • Challenge your playing and appreciate new music
  • Continue building a superior working memory
  • Further develop skills such as creativity, teamwork, communication, and critical thinking
  • Activate different parts of the brain at the same time: language, hearing, and rhythmic motor control

Concert Cycle 1 (Fall 2025) Dates

Registration Deadline  August 12
Cycle Dates September 2–27
Masterclass TBA
Cycle-End Concert Saturday, September 27, afternoon time TBA

Concert Cycle 2 (Fall 2025) Dates

Registration Deadline  October 15
Cycle Dates November 11–December 6
Masterclass TBA
Cycle-End Concert Saturday, December 6, afternoon time TBA

Concert Cycle 3 (Spring 2026) Dates

Registration Deadline  December 15
Cycle Dates January 13–February 7
Masterclass TBA
Cycle-End Concert Saturday, February 7, afternoon time TBA

Concert Cycle 4 (Spring 2026) Dates

Registration Deadline  March 11
Cycle Dates March 31–April 25
Masterclass TBA
Cycle-End Concert Saturday, April 25, afternoon time TBA

2025–2026 Cycle Fees

Fee per cycle (1 chamber ensemble) = $250
Fee per cycle for CTMO members  (1 chamber ensemble) = $200

Refund policy:

  • Fee is non-refundable for each cycle after one week following the registration deadline
  • All refund requests before the non-refundable dates stated above will be charged a flat $20 administration fee

Placement Auditions

Placement auditions are used for chamber ensemble placement only. Once the online registration is completed and tuition has been paid, participants have secured their place in the Academy. In order to place participants into the most appropriate ensemble and to select music we need to hear you!

All new and returning participants will be asked to do a placement audition. Auditions are required to accurately assess each participants’ playing level for ensemble pairing and music selecting!


Pre-Recorded Placement Video Audition Instructions:

The video submission deadline is the same date as the Concert Cycle registration deadline.

Video audition material: One movement of a solo OR one etude that showcases your current playing level musically and technically.

  • When recording video, ensure that you and your instrument are fully visible in the camera and that you are in a well-lit environment
  • Pianists: A side profile is angle is acceptable, however you must be in full view along with the keyboard and pedals
You have TWO options for submitting your video:
  • Option 01: Upload video file to the Google Form (coming soon!)
  • Option 02: Upload your video to YouTube as unlisted and copy + paste the link to the video in the appropriate box within the Google Form
There will be no in-person auditions.

Ready to Register?

Register Now by Clicking Here

Stay informed of upcoming plans or ask a question

Contact ACMC Program Manager Kenken Gorder with any questions, or fill out the contact form below!

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