Student Curriculum

Semi-Private Lessons & Group Classes
These classes are designed to reinforce the education received by the studio teacher and the parent.  Students should be prepared to play a polished piece for the first semi-private lesson on Monday.  For the group class, pieces will be chosen from the repertoire list included in your registration packet.

Elective Classes
In addition to daily masterclasses and group classes, each student will choose two elective classes (included in tuition). Additional elective classes can be added for $80 per class. Please review the descriptions below.

Music Theory I
Instructor: Martin Palacios
This introduction to music theory for beginners will include music staff and symbols (notes-music alphabet, rests, time and key signatures, tempi, dynamics).

Music Theory II
Instructor: Martin Palacios
After a brief review of music notes, rests, and dynamics, this course will cover music terms, tempi, time and key signatures, scales, the circle of fifths, rhythmic and melodic dictation, composers, and periods of music history. Students must have staff paper and pencil.

Music Theory Games
Instructor: Mary Ann Mears
In this introduction to note reading class, students will create musical games that will teach them the basics of note reading, rhythms, dynamics, and musical terms in a fun and playful atmosphere.

Fiddle (string students only)
Instructors: TBA
Traditional American fiddling. Students will learn standard fiddle tunes and techniques. Students should be at least mid-way through book one.

Conducting
Instructor: Daniel Gilbert
Students will learn basic conducting skills and patterns. There will be group conducting, and each student will have the opportunity to conduct the entire class. The goal is for students to be able to conduct songs and instruments once they complete the course.

Chamber Music
Instructors: Daniel Gilbert, Priscilla Tsai
Violin students must be in at least Suzuki Book Four.  Piano and viola students must be in at least Suzuki Book Three.  Students must have advanced reading skills and the recommendation of their private teacher.  There will be an additional cost of $80 to join this class, and it will replace the technique class in the student’s schedule.

Art
Instructor: TBA
Students will create projects exploring different techniques and materials. Students will get a list of supplies needed for the class.

Graphic Arts Photo Imaging
Instructor: Patsy Fancher
Introduction to photographic image editing and manipulation using Adobe Photoshop. Emphasis is placed on electronic photo retouching, image manipulation, and painting using channels and layers. Topics include working with clipping paths and using channels and layers. Mastering selection, painting, and editing tools is a basic for this course. In addition, you will be introduced to the basics of Macintosh computers. One Macintosh computer per student is assigned for the course. Maximum 20 students per class. Ages 8 & up.

Suzuki Creative Movement
Instructor: TBA
Stretch, strengthen, and move to familiar Suzuki themes. Students will be introduced to basic dance principles and steps. Participants are requested to wear comfortable clothing and socks. Dancewear is encouraged but not necessary.