Beginning

A comprehensive musical experience for beginning- to intermediate-level violin, viola, and cello players! Participants in this two-week program play in chamber ensembles or beginning group classes, receive weekly private lessons, and enjoy a variety of activities including an all-camp string ensemble and all-camp chorus, outdoor play, arts & crafts, and music games. Special Wednesday schedules include afternoon recreational field trips each week. Students are placed into either a chamber ensemble or group class based on a required entrance interview.

A wonderful way to introduce your child to one of the most popular beginning instruments: violin, cello, piano, fife, or recorder. Kids explore a chosen instrument in small group classes during this week-long camp, and also enjoy a range of fun musical activities including an all-camp chorus, rhythm and movement classes, and hands-on opportunities to discover a variety of other orchestral instruments.

In this class, students listen to and analyze a great variety of music- contemporary works as well as masterpieces of established music literature. In addition to this guided listening, students engage in sight singing, ear training, and written exercises, building the fluency that is required of a proficient musician.

A unique and fun introduction to the basic aspects of music literacy, beginning with note reading, ear training, notation, and the understanding and hearing of rhythmic patterns. Games slowly progress to include more advanced topics such as intervals, chords, tempi, signs, and the basics of composition. Music Mind Games not only teaches musical concepts, but also supports the development of the child’s mind by asking questions rather than giving answers, encouraging the children to open up to exploration and discovery. The result is joyful confidence and the desire to learn more.

Meet other homeschool students and make music together! This program is for homeschooled string players with at least six months of experience and who currently study with a private teacher. Bring a short piece to play for the ensemble placement auditions, which occur on the first day.

An introduction to the basic skills required for ensemble playing, including listening, following directions, and cooperation among fellow players. Intended for students with at least one year of study on their chosen instruments; students are expected to study privately with a teacher of their choice in conjunction with the class. Session culminates in an informal class performance. Placement interview or teacher recommendation required.

Students gain a basic knowledge of the violin or cello within a fun group setting. Students must bring their own instruments and are expected to maintain daily home practice. Families are responsible for the purchase of class materials and books as specified by the teacher.

The Suzuki program is intended for families who are committed to pursuing instrument study as a central activity in their family life. The cornerstone of the Suzuki program at Crowden is the creation of a cooperative relationship between teacher, parent, and student. Parents take an active role in the educational process by attending all lessons and classes, and by practicing daily with their children at home.

An introduction to playing the flute through use of the fife, a small plastic flute, in a fun and nurturing group setting. Students learn the basic techniques of good sound production and easy, efficient hand positions, which will transfer to flute when the student has sufficient reach. Students must provide their own fifes.

In this 14-week class, students learn to read music notation, develop good right- and left-hand technique, gain ensemble skills, and have fun with different kinds of music. Students must provide their own guitars.