CMI ASCEND

Ascend aims to ignite a passion for classical music in young minds while fostering a nurturing environment for musical growth. 

ASCEND PROGRAM DETAILS

Ascend is an after-school program designed to provide comprehensive classical music education experiences to students who seek regular access to music programs in their schools or communities. This initiative offers free-of-charge, after-school programming to all students. 

Ascend incorporates the El Sistema – Venezuela philosophy of using music as an instrument for social transformation. This music education philosophy aims to create positive individual and social development through the collective practice of music. 

The first Ascend program was established in January 2024 in partnership with Stafford Visual & Performing Arts Elementary.

Ascend Components

  • String Orchestra
  • Studio Classes
  • Chamber Music
  • Private Lessons
  • Peer Mentorship
  • Future Teacher Training
  • Interactive Workshops

Ascend Objectives

To provide students, regardless of their socio-economic background or prior musical experience, with equitable access to high-quality classical music education experiences. 

To foster a sense of belonging and personal growth through music, nurturing the emotional and creative aspects of each student.

To instill in students the ability to collaborate effectively with peers, appreciate the importance of teamwork, and contribute to a collective musical experience.

To ignite and nurture a lifelong passion for classical music in young minds, encouraging a deep and lasting appreciation for this art form.

To foster social change and cohesion within the community, demonstrating that excellence in music can be a powerful vehicle for broader societal transformation.

To create an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity, welcoming students from all backgrounds and cultures. To promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation through the universal language of music.

If you are interested in participating in Ascend, please contact Eliezer Anteliz, Ascend Program Coordinator, at eanteliz@cmi-sa.org.

Artist Faculty

Bass

Cello

Viola

Violin

Conductor

Piano

Voice

The Classical Music Institute of San Antonio’s Ascend Summer Education Program offers string musicians and singers aged 8-18 the opportunity to explore their talents as a performer and build musicianship skills. The program runs from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday through Friday from June 13-25, 2022 and lunch is provided for the participants each day. Tuition for the program is $300 and scholarships are available for those with financial need.

Applicants will have the opportunity to participate in one-on-one lessons with the CMI Ascend Artist Faculty, participate in solo and ensemble performances, workshops, master classes, and coachings with a variety of internal performing artists. Students will also take part in group voice and piano lessons with instruction focusing on learning to read musical notes, rhythms, and harmony. The program will conclude with a final concert on June 24th, comprised of all the students and faculty on stage.

How to Apply

Application Requirements

Beginning to Intermediate Students

  • Contact Information
  • Musical experience questionnaire
  • Video of a short performance (recommended but not required)

Advanced Students

  • Contact Information
  • Musical experience questionnaire
  • Two videos of contrasting pieces of music (live accompaniment preferred, but pre-recorded backing tracks are accepted)

Program Dates

June 13–25, 2022

Applications will continue to be accepted until we reach program capacity.

Results will be announced by March 28.

Fees

Application fee: $30 (Strings/Piano) $15 (Voice)

Tuition: $300 to confirm registration.

Scholarships and application fee waivers are available for those with financial need.

Since this is a day program, participants are required to arrange daily commute.

STRINGS AND PIANO APPLICATION ON ACCEPTD

VOICE APPLICATION ON YAPTRACKER

You do not need to be a paying subscriber to YAP Tracker to use the application form, although you will need an account (guest accounts are available; see the website for details).

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

CMI aims to meet and exceed guidelines from the CDC, State of Texas and
City of San Antonio. Please find more information below:

Tobin Center Venue Disease Mitigation Plan

UIW COVID-19 Guidelines

TAMU-SA COVID-19 Guidelines

Trinity University COVID-19 Guidelines

The cost for the CMI’s Ascend Summer Education Program (Ages 8-18) and the CMI Ascend Collegiate Voice Program (College students) is $300 for two weeks. Payment can be made through the Acceptd or Yaptracker websites after submitting your application. You can also mail your payment to: 

CMI
PO Box 6846
San Antonio, TX 78209.

(Payment is due no later than June 7, 2022)

In the past the program took place at the Edgewood Fine Arts S.T.E.A.M Academy. However this year’s location is Edgewood Fine Arts Academy with concerts in various locations

CMI’s Ascend Summer Education Program dates are June 13 to 25, 2022.

We accept students ages 8-18. Parents with students under 8 years old can contact CMI Education Advisor Daniela Diaz at ddiaz@cmi-sa.org for further information.

The program runs from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday to Friday. Individual and instrument-specific schedules will be customized in advance of the program start.

Drop off times: 8:00 a.m.–8:30 a.m.

Pick up times: 3:00 p.m.–3:15 p.m.

Light breakfast will be served at 8:00 am and lunch will be provided at 12:00pm.

Yes. The program will conclude with a final concert on June 24th, comprised of all the students and faculty on stage. Due to COVID-19, audience and ensemble sizes may be reduced to promote social distancing and healthy environments for all.

Once you submit your application, you will be accepted to participate in the CMI Ascend Summer Education Program. The audition requirement goes as follow:

  • Ages 8-18: Beginning to Intermediate Students please submit a video of a short performance on your application. Advanced students are required to submit two videos of contrasting pieces of music (live accompaniment preferred, but pre-recorded backing tracks are accepted).
  • Voice College students: please submit two videos of performances of contrasting repertoire to your Yaptracker application.

Tuition assistance is offered for eligible Bexar County students. For more tuition assistance information please refer to the enrollment application.

Absences are allowed only for extenuating circumstances. Only two absences are allowed. If a student misses more than two days, they will not be able to participate for the remainder of the program.

For additional information and questions please call 210.364.3884 or email Daniela Diaz, Education Advisor at ddiaz@cmi-sa.org.

Thank You to Our 2022–23 Sponsors