Home > Academics > Affiliated Programs > Preparatory Music Department > Classes

Preparatory Music Department Classes

String Enrichment Classes and Ensembles

These classes meet weekly throughout the fall and spring semesters. Students from beginner to advanced gain the experience of playing in a group through the use of various repertoire and ensemble music that compliments their private study. There are at least two performance opportunities per semester.

Divertimento Chamber Players

The art of the ensemble will be explored with this group which is designed for more advanced players. Standard chamber music repertoire (quartet, trio) will be studied and performed. Musical style and the fine points of communicating through music will be introduced and practiced. Participation in this group is through an audition by invitation with teacher recommendation and consent of instructor. There will be at least two performance opportunities and the possibility of more in each year.

Da Capo Youth Orchestra

Designed for the intermediate-level string player to provide a stimulating, high quality ensemble experience with instruction in orchestral technique and ensemble playing. DCYO offers young string players the opportunity to improve their technique and develop their ensemble skills while performing more advanced literature with others in an enjoyable and supportive setting. There are at least two performance opportunities per year.

Divisi String Orchestra

A beginning level ensemble for violinists and violists with no required prior ensemble experience. This ensemble group will focus on beginning note reading, along with basic instrumental and orchestral performance skills through repertoire built around the Suzuki Method as well as popular and classical excerpts. At least two performances are scheduled each semester, with the possibility of more.

Cello Choir

Open to students at the beginning, early/late intermediate and advanced level, this class provides cellists the unique experience of playing multiple celli repertoire. Students are grouped according to level and age.

DoReMi/Preludio

Suzuki Violin repertoire and technique will be emphasized, along with theory, note-reading, and ensemble playing skills. Weekly sessions will include individual and group performance opportunities. Open to both violinist and violists.

Suzuki Parent Seminar

This two-hour seminar is offered to parents interested in learning more about the Suzuki philosophy and method, and/or are ready to begin Suzuki study with their children. The class gives an overview of Suzuki-style teaching, how it differs from traditional styles, parents’ roles in lessons and in home practice, and what to expect from Suzuki study. It is open to all parents, and also is a pre-requisite for Prep to Twinkle Classes.
Download a flyer about the next Suzuki Parent Seminar on June 4 (PDF) »

Suzuki Prep to Twinkle Music & Movement and Parent Education

Suzuki Prep to Twinkle Music & Movement and Parent Education is a four- week and two-part series of music & movement and parent education classes specifically for parents and children ready to embark on Suzuki study.

The Parent Education section focuses on topics such as practicing with your child at home, parent-teacher-student dynamics, keeping practicing fresh and inspired, and deeper understanding of the Suzuki philosophy will be discussed.

The Suzuki music & movement section will familiarize parents and children with Suzuki Book 1 repertoire through singing, dancing, movement, percussion, and listening. Instructor Christina Berg, a former Suzuki mother of three and married to a veteran Suzuki violin teacher herself, will offer expert parental advice on practicing, motivating and inspiring your child to practice once you’ve begun private lessons. The Suzuki Seminar is a pre-requisite.

Piano Ensemble Classes

Using a 9-piano and a 5-piano labs, the beginning, intermediate and advanced piano students engage in an intensive 14-week ensemble program to study multiple-piano repertoire. There is a 38 Hand/9 Piano Ensemble concert at the end of each semester.

Wind/Brass Ensemble

Open to flute, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, oboe, trumpet, trombone, French horn, tuba, and percussion students who would like more opportunities for ensemble practice and performance.

Early Childhood Music & Movement

Early Childhood Music & Movement is a pre-instrumental class for children aged 3 to 5 years. This series of classes aims to develop musical skills and an appreciation of music, and prepare children for private instrumental instruction. In each class children will sing, dance, move, and play a variety of instruments including rhythm sticks, bells, and other percussion instruments. Activities include large and small motor movement, with an emphasis on singing, beat, rhythm, high/low and fast/slow. Parent or caregiver must accompany child.