“I studied music at the Preparatory Music Department, and along the way, my dedicated teachers taught me how to live a full, happy life. To this day I enjoy close friendships with my childhood duet partners and former teachers. The valuable lessons I learned at PMD - both musical and beyond - continue to enhance all areas of my life.” ~ Grace Curcio
This philosophy provides a logical, developmentally sound approach to instrumental learning. Based on how children learn their language, it begins with training the ear and with fostering ability in a nurturing environment. Music reading proceeds once a sense of musicality and fluency are achieved.
Private Lessons
Students register through Holy Names University Preparatory Music Department. Most lessons are given on the Holy Names University campus, although some instructors teach locally in their home studios.
Enrollment
Each year is divided into fall, spring, and summer semesters. Students register by semester but may begin lessons at any time. Rates vary among individual instructors.
To register, or for more information, contact the director, Katherine Baird, at (510) 436-1224 or email Baird@hnu.edu.
Tuition per semester covers private lessons and playthroughs/recitals.
Activity Fee
This fee is charged per student per semester.
Installment Plan
Students may pay for the semester by making one full payment or three monthly installments with an additional service charge per student.
About the Ralph & Merna Thomas Scholarship Fund
The Ralph & Merna Thomas Scholarship Fund was created to honor the memory of Merna Thomas. Merna was a former PMD director and teacher; Suzuki teacher-trainer; former chair of the Holy Names College Music Department; and a beloved colleague, mentor and friend. This scholarship fund provides lessons, classes, and similar programs to students in the Preparatory Music Department. Donations are always appreciated, and are tax-deductible. Checks are payable to The Ralph & Merna Thomas Scholarship Fund, and should be mailed to HNU PMD 3500 Mountain Blvd. Oakland, CA. 94619
Select excerpts from the annual Preparatory Music Department Pops Concert
Holy Names University's popular PMD family event features music on all instruments of non-Classical, popular and New Age themes.
