Classes offered on two levels, intermediate and advanced. Student ensembles will perform works recorded by notable groups including the Berlin Philharmonic Cellos, the Yale Cellos, and the London Cello Sound. Students should have good intonation and rhythm and be comfortable with thumb position as well as bass, tenor, and treble clefs.
These classes approach playing the piano through understanding music theory with emphasis on sight-reading, transposition, and rhythm. Piano I begins with music notation (rhythm and intervals). In conjunction with playing simple classical pieces, students learn major scales, relative and parallel minor scales, and chords (tonic, dominant, and sub-dominant). Piano II explores these same subjects in greater depth, while adding seventh chords, practice techniques, ensemble, and analysis of students’ repertoire.
This class is designed for students who want to enhance their current musical literacy. Coursework will focus on developing aural perception and understanding musical materials- rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic- in both tonal and modal contexts. The class covers the following musical elements:Chromatic intervals, Common chord progressions and cadences, Basic keyboard harmony, Introduction to harmonic analysis and musical form.
Jazz piano is designed for those students who love jazz, already play the piano, read music, have some experience with music theory, and are interested in learning how to improvise. Students learn about chord symbols, voicings, common jazz chord progressions, scales and modes, as well as other tools that allow them to begin the rewarding journey into jazz improvisation. A play-a-long CD is provided to give students the opportunity to learn tunes at home while playing with a drummer and bass player anytime! Lessons are shaped to match each student’s interest and level of ability.
The Alexander Technique is helpful for musicians who wish to play with more coordination and freedom. Understanding the subtleties of how the head, torso, breath, and limbs relate to each other enables us to make music at our full potential of power and expression. Unconscious habits of movement can lead to excess muscle tensions, which can lead to pain and injury as well as dampening the free flow of communication with the audience.
Music appreciation classes vary per semester. Popular offerings have included; Music Appreciation: An Overview of Western Music History, and Who's Afraid of Opera.
Voice classes vary per semester. Popular offerings have included: Singing in German, Performance Workshops, Recreational Singing, Musical Theater Workshop.
Our outstanding private lesson faculty provides intense and personalized instruction on most Western instruments. While taking private lessons at the Conservatory you will have the opportunity to perform in the Sol H. Joseph Recital Hall and the larger, 450-seat Concert Hall.
Instrumental experience and ability to read music required. No previous music theory or ear-training experience required. Also appropriate for current Preparatory Division musicianship students.
Interview May be Required
Students will improve their general musicianship skills and lay solid groundwork for exploring music in other programs. Three class levels are offered, grouped by age and experience.
Interview Required
with submission of one previously composed work
Students explore chamber music composition, from conceiving an idea to sketching, workshopping and completing a final score. Chamber music students and guest artists perform composition students’ work in a culminating concert.