A special and integral part of CSM's teaching philosophy is the combining of ensemble playing with lessons. All students taking instrumental lessons join an appropriate orchestra, band, or ensemble as part of their tuition as soon as they are suitably skilled.

Participation in a performing group is included in the lesson fee.

A fee is only charged for second or subsequent performing groups or for students taking lessons elsewhere. Adult players are welcome to join any of the Saturday groups, including  Windjammers, which is exclusively for adult learners.