About CSYM
In 1982, Stephen Power organised the Granta Suzuki Group which in turn evolved into Cambridge Suzuki Young Musicians (CSYM). CSYM is a constituted non-profit association which aims to provide musical education for children with a commitment to excellence through the educational approaches of Suzuki and Kodály. Its activities provide support for children, parents and teachers in the planning, organisation and hosting of concerts, workshops and fundraising events.
All families enrolled in the programme become members of CSYM and group members of the British Suzuki Institute (BSI). The annual CSYM family membership fee covers the costs of mounting two concerts per year, of running other CSYM events, and of BSI membership.
The CSYM is managed by a volunteer Executive Committee which is elected at the annual AGM and meets approximately six times throughout the academic year. The current committee includes:
| Jane Kershaw | Chair |
|---|---|
| Rae Streets | Treasurer |
| Judith Somers Heslam | Secretary |
| Penny Mullock | Website |
| Karyn Barnes | Publicity |
| Audrey Caldwell |
Besides committee members, many other parents make practical contributions to the work of the group, particularly at special events such as concerts and workshops, contributing time, energy and skills. The CSYM relies on, and is strengthened by, the involvement of parents through its 'Friends of the Committee'.
Over the years, CSYM has organised many successful musical events. In recent years, for example, the group has organised:
- Successful summer workshops
- Regular concerts at the West Road Concert Hall
- Production of a DVD of the CSYM Christmas concerts, 2005 and 2006
- Spring concerts in aid of charity (RNID's 'Don't Lose the Music' campaign in 2007, the Music Therapy Programme at Milton Children's Hospice in 2006 and Save the Children's Tsunami appeal in 2005)
- Joint duet concert in Cambridge with pupils from the London Suzuki Group
- A visit to Copenhagen for a joint concert with a Danish Suzuki group; the hosting of a return visit to Cambridge by Danish Suzuki families
- Fundraising to enable the group to commission new pieces and workshop visits from composers (including Graham Fitkin in 2007 and 2004; Huw Watkins in 2006)
- A one-day piano masterclass and Dalcroze session
- Research into possible new teaching premises in Cambridge.
Tel: (01223) 264408
Email: info@suzukipianocambridge.org.uk
16 March 2008 14:11