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Be a part of the change!

Catalyst Youth Orchestra, a new type of orchestra.

Catalyst Youth Orchestra is a new type of orchestra that reflects the interconnected and  ever-changing world in which we live. While Catalyst has great respect for the many traditions associated with the orchestra (compositions by giants like Beethoven, tuxedos and fancy dresses, beautiful concert halls, etc.), we at Catalyst believe it is time to give the orchestra model an update. Catalyst provides participants the opportunity to collaborate with one another in an innovative environment that explores ALL genres of music as a gateway for broader learning. This genre spanning orchestra will perform music that is both relevant and exciting to youthful sensibilities, while not overlooking the great traditions on which the orchestra is based. We at Catalyst hope to be a catalyst for musical change in the world. Come be a part of the change.

 
 
 

Our Programs and Schedules

 

Catalyst Youth Orchestra

Catalyst Youth Orchestra’s mission is to expand the definition of orchestra, bringing it into the 21st century. Catalyst leaves the concept of genre behind, performing everything from fiddle tunes to funk, Beatles to Beethoven - at Catalyst, it’s ALL music.

Sparks Orchestra

The Sparks Orchestra is for younger developing string players who would benefit from playing in a less traditional orchestral setting. Sparks members will be learning everything from fiddle tunes, improvisation, and pop tunes. This will all be done in a way to reinforce important foundational instrumental skills needed for younger players.

Catalyst Ensembles

Our Catalyst Ensemble program is a direct consequence of our mission to produce versatile musicians who are conversant in many different styles. Ensembles will meet in shorter 6-week sessions throughout our season. This allows students to potentially participate in a number of different small ensembles as diverse as an Irish Ensemble, a Jazz Ensemble, or a more traditional String Quartet. Here are a sampling of the Ensembles that are currently running:

  • Acoustic Ensemble: An acoustic folk/rock band includes vocalists, guitarists, bassists, string players and percussionists. We currently have two bands performing everything from a Bluegrass version of Ozzy Osbourne, to Taylor Swift.

  • Our Jazz Ensemble is currently a traditional piano trio (piano, bass, drums). We are open to accepting other instrumentalists.

  • If your child is interested in being placed in an ensemble, please contact our musical director, Charles duChateau.

Our Schedule

  • Catalyst Youth Orchestra: Tuesdays 7-9 PM, Bronxville Women’s Club

  • Catalyst Sparks: Tuesdays 4:30-5:30 PM, Bronxville Women’s Club

  • Catalyst Ensembles: time/place is TBA, depending on your specific ensemble. These are our current running ensembles:

    • Acoustic Ensemble A: Fridays 4-5:10PM

    • Acoustic Ensemble B: Fridays 5:30-6:40PM

    • Jazz Ensemble: Saturdays noon-1:10PM

Check our Calendar for more information on scheduling.

Location

Catalyst Youth Orchestra is in residence at the beautiful and historic Bronxville Women’s Club in Bronxville, New York. Some of our Ensembles will meet at Mr. D’s studio, or his outdoor studio (when in season!).

Tuition

  • Catalyst Youth Orchestra: $1200 for full year (30 sessions)

  • Catalyst Sparks: $850 for full year (25 sessions)

  • Catalyst Ensemble: $200 per 6-week session

 
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Meet Charles duChateau (AKA “Mr. D")

 
 

Charles duChateau, founder and music director, is a multi-instrumentalist, conductor and educator. In addition to conducting, he has played piano, cello, accordion and erhu on (or near) Broadway for the last 20 years. When “Mr. D” is not teaching, you can find him in a Broadway orchestra pit either conducting or playing cello or piano in the orchestra. Some of his credits include Carousel, The King & I, Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark (with a score by Bono and the Edge of U2), South Pacific, Fiddler on the Roof, Oklahoma, and national tours of Les Miserables and Miss Saigon. He has appeared with pop acts such as Ben Folds, Hall & Oates, and Beck. He has appeared on Late Night with David Letterman, Live with Regis and Kelly, The Conan O’Brien Show, and Saturday Night Live. Mr. D loves introducing new music to young people. He has led youth rock bands, choruses, chamber groups and currently serves as the director of the string department at Tuckahoe Middle and High Schools. Mr. D lives in lower Westchester with his wife, two teenage sons, and their three cats!

 

Videos

Check out the many sides of Catalyst Youth Orchestra!

Catalyst Youth Orchestra’s inaugural performance with guests artists Rachel Handman and Keve Wilson.

Check out Catalyst Youth Orchestra’s 2020 summer session!

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Identity and Website for Catalyst Youth Orchestra Designed by Audrey Lee Brown

Catalyst Youth Orchestra is a 501(c) nonprofit organization.

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