NSA Chamber Orchestra Student Resources
Welcome to the Nevada School of the Arts Chamber Orchestra (NSACO)!
We’re thrilled to have you join us for another exciting year of music-making. To help you stay connected and informed, we’ve gathered all key resources in one place:
How To Apply For NSACO – START HERE.
- Welcome Letter – Some additional information on applying and what's next.
Application and Intake Form – complete this for consideration regarding the 2025–2026 season.
Teacher Recommendation Form – send this to your orchestra teacher to complete on your behalf.
2025–2026 Seating Audition Information – details on audition requirements and preparation.
Rehearsal and Concert Schedule – dates and times (check back often for updates).
Teaching Syllabus – a roadmap for student growth and performance expectations.
NSACO Google Drive Folder – the central hub for all updated orchestra information.
We encourage both parents and students to review these materials regularly, as they will guide your NSACO experience and keep everyone up to date throughout the season.
Announcements:
At NSACO, we believe students thrive with consistent lessons and the opportunity to grow over time. All students receive a 30-minute lesson at no cost during their first year, with a modest contribution added in subsequent years ($10 per lesson in Year 2, $20 per lesson in Year 3+). To encourage deeper study, families may choose to extend lessons to 45 minutes (+$15) or 60 minutes (+$25).
Students who extend their lesson length are not subject to 2nd- and 3rd-year fees.
For example: A second-year student taking 30-minute lessons would pay an additional $10 per lesson. If that student instead chose 45-minute lessons, they would only pay $15 per lesson total, and the $10 “second year fee” would be waived.
Students who maintain good attendance in Year One and receive the recommendation of their private teacher will also not be charged the $10 “second year fee.” In other words, consistent attendance and progress benefit students both financially and educationally.
Additional support is available: students demonstrating strong growth, leadership, and attendance may qualify for enhanced merit-based scholarships, and families with financial need may apply for a full scholarship at any time.
Billing is prepaid in groups of 4 lessons (approximately monthly).
Four 45-minute lessons = $60 per month
Four 60-minute lessons = $100 per month
Updates for 2025-2026:
1. Recognition for Returning Students
Students who meet their Year One goals and demonstrate strong progress may qualify for reduced or waived tuition in their second year. This incentive rewards hard work and encourages consistent practice.
2. Clear Roadmap for Growth
A new unified syllabus outlines expectations for each stage of development. To help students stay on track, we may introduce a playing test day at the end of each semester, giving students a chance to demonstrate their progress in a supportive environment.
3. Longer Lesson Options
In addition to the free 30-minute lesson included with NSACO, families now have the option to upgrade to 45- or 60-minute lessons at a discounted rate for more individualized instruction.
4. Building Skills That Travel
The skills developed in NSACO—teamwork, listening, leadership, and musical confidence—not only strengthen students’ experience here but also help them excel in their school and youth orchestras.
Practice, practice, practice!
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Nevada School of the Arts is committed to providing a high-quality music and arts education that is affordable and available to all families in our community.
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The school, built in 1936, is a rare example of Mission-style architecture. The single-story building consists of a series of concrete wings connected by tile roofed arcades. Originally housing one of Clark County's first elementary schools, it was recently renovated for use as a cultural oasis in the heart of downtown.
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Your support of our scholarship fund provides all students, regardless of economic background, the necessary support to pursue an education in the arts.
“K. is currently a junior in high school at the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts and a Piano major at NSA. His love for piano started when he was in 6th grade. That was his toughest year. You see, K. has autism, ADHD, and was later diagnosed as being twice exceptional. From day one since he set foot in school, he became a constant visitor to the principal’s office.
From years of trying to figure out what can help with his behavior, his therapist pointed us to music. He initially started with viola, he was a fast learner, but that wasn’t his cup of tea. As fate would have it, his then viola teacher also had a piano in her house. K. requested to play with it one day and ever since then, he never stopped. His fears and anxiety all disappear once he starts playing the piano. It became his most effective therapy and outlet. His happy place. This once angry, impatient, and defiant young boy has transformed into a calm, polite and compassionate teenager.
He was able to accomplish being a beginner pianist to advance in a matter of 2 years. He hopes to someday grace the concert halls of Juilliard and play his favorite classical music.”