ITHACA, NY (CortacaToday) — The Community School of Music and Arts (CSMA) is excited to announce several new developments for the 2024 season, including the return of the Ithaca Children’s Youth Chorus (ICYC), the launch of the CSMA Concert Band, and the upcoming annual community art exhibition. These new programs add to CSMA’s robust offerings in music, art, theatre, and dance, expanding creative opportunities for students and artists throughout the region.

The Ithaca Children’s Youth Chorus, a cornerstone of the region’s youth choral scene since 1983, will return to CSMA under the direction of Artistic Director Emily Richards. To celebrate their return, the ICYC will perform a concert at CSMA on December 17th. The event will feature a performance by the chorus, as well as a special opening act from the Ageless Jazz Band, a local 18-piece ensemble. This concert promises to be a dynamic showcase of local youth talent and community spirit.

CSMA is also launching the new CSMA Concert Band, which begins rehearsals on November 9th. Open to brass, woodwind, and percussion students currently participating in school band programs or private lessons, the Concert Band offers a unique opportunity for students to develop their skills both individually and as part of an ensemble. The band will be split into two groups: a 5th-6th grade ensemble and a 7th-8th grade ensemble. Both will perform a mini concert at CSMA on December 11th, giving students a chance to share their progress with family, friends, and the community.

In addition to these musical programs, CSMA will host its annual community art exhibition this December, themed “Light and Luminosity.” The exhibition invites local artists—both emerging and established—to submit their work, with guaranteed inclusion for all applicants. The deadline for submissions is November 15th, 2024.

The Ithaca Children’s Youth Chorus concert will take place on Tuesday, December 17th at 6:00 pm at CSMA, located at 330 East State Street, Ithaca, NY. Admission is by suggested donation of $5-$10, and tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

“We are elated to provide new and returning programs to the community,” says Megan Omohundro, CSMA’s Executive Director. “While CSMA has consistently maintained a public event space through Martha Hamblin Hall, I am happy to see a transition back to student performances, showcases and exhibits.”

For more information on the Ithaca Children’s Youth Chorus, the CSMA Concert Band, or the community art exhibition, visit www.csma-ithaca.org, contact CSMA’s front desk at 607-272-1474, or info@csma-ithaca.org.