The Trenton Chamber Orchestra (TCO) was established in 2022 as the premier ensemble within Trenton Music Makers, showcasing our most advanced students. TCO members are not only proficient musicians with strong practice habits; they also serve as role models and ambassadors for Capital Harmony Works. Students in TCO receive private lessons and training in chamber music, and they engage in rehearsals and performances alongside teaching artists. This immersive experience inspires them and allows them to interact in a professional environment, providing valuable performance opportunities. The formation of TCO marks a significant advancement in the quality of our organization by creating a pathway for Trenton Music Makers students to pursue careers as professional musicians. This ensemble aims to equip them with the essential training needed to realize their dreams while serving as a leading reference ensemble nationwide, demonstrating the power of youth development through high-level music-making. This past July, 18 of our students went to the Princeton Blairstown Center for a weekend with fellow El Sistema-inspired programs sponsored by El Sistema New Jersey Alliance. This intensive experience included rehearsals and recreational activities, culminating into a final performance at the Princeton Blairstown Center. Additionally, Cindy Lorenzana (viola) traveled to Traverse City, Michigan, as she was chosen to participate in the prestigious Interlochen Arts Camp for six weeks, being the first of our students to achieve this accomplishment, making Capital Harmony Works history! At the same time, Hans Jean Giles (cello) trekked to Maine for the New England Music Camp, to receive intensive instruction in orchestra, chamber music, and private
Meet our Artistic Director, Melissa Niño A Venezuela native, Melissa grew up with the renowned music method originated in Venezuela El Sistema. At the age of 6, she was selected by Professor Emil Friedman to join the prestigious school Colegio Emil Friedman in which she was trained in violin, chamber music and orchestra. She participated at the Juan Bautista Plaza violin competition at the age of 14 and is a former member of the Virtuosis de Caracas ensemble. Melissa is an alumni of the world recognized institution Interlochen Centre for the Arts in Michigan, USA and a former member of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and The World Orchestra. A graduate of Indiana University South Bend and Arizona State University, she is the founder of the TrèsFemme Trio, a chamber music ensemble that performed unknown compositions by women composers that debuted in the Veranos de la Villa Festival in Spain. Apart from the classical world, Melissa has collaborated with artists from other genres such as BB King, Marc Anthony, The Monomes among others. In addition to performing, Melissa has a remarkable pedagogical career teaching violin, chamber music and orchestra in countries including USA, Spain, Singapore and Hong Kong. Niño is the Co-founder of El Sistema Hong Kong and is also one of the first El Sistema inspired educators to launch an orchestra program for the elderly population of Hong Kong.
lessons, with the opportunity to attend performances by world-class artists.
What have you learned with TMM that you are most proud of? “I have been here since the 1st grade and now I’m in the 4th. I have learned how to read music and can play at least 10 songs.” John, 9 (Violin)
CAPITAL HARMONY WORKS | ANNUAL REPORT 2023-24
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