The Pinnacle String Ensemble, the School of Music newest ensemble at Western Carolina University was organized this year to bring together students and community members who play string instruments in a more intimate chamber string orchestra setting. Kim Neidlinger is the conductor. Pinnacle refers to the area’s panoramic views and the ensemble’s goal to develop and achieve musical excellence. The ensemble offers community engaged learning experiences for the university students through a new program at Western Carolina University’s Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning. Ensemble members are music majors and non-music majors as well as community members from Sylva, Franklin, and Andrews, but desire a space to learn and perform music written for chamber and string orchestra.