Strings, Piano & Winds

Violin closeup

Academy Instrumental Program
The Instrumental Program is divided into four main levels — Junior, Intermediate, Associate, and Senior. Those students not placed into one of these levels may be considered for Participant status. New students are placed in the program based on the results of their audition, while those already in the Academy are required to re-audition yearly to maintain or improve their standing.

Junior Academy
Students ranging in age from 6 to 12 benefit from the extensive technical enrichment provided at this level. Emphasis is on developing technical proficiency and musical skills. In addition to weekly technique classes, students are instructed in basic musical concepts and theory, and work with an accompanist. Regular recitals help them develop performance skills and gain confidence on their instrument.

Junior Academy Includes:
Monday master and technique classes, and chamber ensembles
Accompanying: Strings, 1/2 hour every other week

Junior Academy Does NOT Include:

Private instrument lessons

Orchestra/large ensemble (Note that string students are encouraged to participate in the orchestral program as part of their preparation for the upper levels of Academy.)

Intermediate Academy
For students between the ages of 8 and 14 who are playing advanced repertoire, but who are still developing their performance skills. Weekly sessions include chamber music, masterclasses and recitals, combined with regular sessions with an accompanist.

Intermediate Academy Includes:
Monday master and technique classes, and chamber ensembles
Orchestra/large ensemble
Accompanying: Strings/winds, 1/2 hour every other week Piano students, 2 hours per semester

Intermediate Academy Does NOT Include:

Private instrument lessons

Academy Participant

Academy Participant Includes:
Monday masterclasses
Orchestra/large ensemble
Accompanying: Strings/winds, 1/2 hour every other week Piano students, 2 hours per semester

Academy Participant Does NOT Include:

Private instrument lessons

Chamber music

Associate Academy
An "entry level" Senior Academy program, Associate Academy is for students ages 10+ who are playing advanced repertoire (Grade 8 and up). Students receive weekly master or technique classes and chamber music coaching, as well as regular sessions with an accompanist.

Associate Academy Includes:
Monday masterclasses & chamber ensembles
Orchestra/large ensemble
Accompanying: Strings/winds, 1/2 hour every other week Piano students, 2 hours per semester

Associate Academy Does NOT Include:

Private instrument lessons

Senior Academy
For musically mature students ages 10 to 18 who are playing advanced repertoire. Students receive weekly master or technique classes and chamber music coaching, as well as regular sessions with an accompanist.

Senior Academy Includes:
Monday masterclasses & chamber ensembles
Orchestra/large ensemble
Accompanying: Strings/winds, 1/2 hour every week Piano students, 4 hours per semester

Senior Academy Does NOT Include:

Private instrument lessons