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CMU Symphony Orchestra

As the most rapidly growing ensemble of our department, The CMU Symphony Orchestra
(CMUSO) is an audition-only large ensemble that performs an exciting mix of styles and
works. After massive growth in the past five years, nearly 40 string players currently play in
CMUSO, which meets as a String Orchestra in the Fall, and meets as a full Symphony
Orchestra in the Spring, including woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Participation for
non-string students will be based on merit, level determined by audition, and instructor
approval.

The ensemble includes a mix of majors, minors, and students pursuing other degrees who
want to continue playing in college and have a successful audition. Advanced high-school
students in the D51 district are also eligible to audition.

CMUSO is conducted and directed by Prof. Brian Krinke, who uses his many years of
professional orchestral experience to guide students in multiple performances each
semester. The orchestra is excited to be a performing guest ensemble featured at the
Colorado Music Educators Association in Spring 2025, presenting a mix of great works at
the beautiful Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs. The string orchestra is also featured
each fall for String Day, the annual day-long Western Slope orchestra festival hosted and
directed by CMU faculty. The ensemble also receives occasional coaching from Dr. Jason
Pegis who occasionally plays as a soloist with the group, as well as from CMU String Day
guest artists-in-residence.