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Music School > Ensembles
EnsemblesStrings | Winds/Brass | Voice | Jazz | Guitar | Mixed Instruments


FALL 2010 ENSEMBLES - For general information about ensembles at IHM click here. If you are interested in joining a custom ensemble click here to download the Ensemble Questionnaire.



STRINGS DEPARTMENT

Adult Harp Ensemble Age 18+

Wednesday, 10:30-11:30 am
$187 per semester
10 weeks starting October 6

Instructor: Nancy Peters

Relaxed sessions designed to promote the learning and enjoyment of ensemble playing. Repertory will include fun suites and single pieces in multiple parts. Open to students of the pedal or lever harp with good basic playing and reading skills.


WINDS and BRASS DEPARTMENT

Clarinet Choir High school age to adult

Thursday, 8:15-9:30 pm
$175 per semester
10 weeks starting October 7

Instructor: Paul Surapine

Intermediate and advanced clarinetists are invited to audition for the Clarinet Choir. Members will build their ensemble and personal performance skills through works for B-flat clarinet ensemble as well as the other members of the clarinet family, which students will be encouraged to learn about and play. The ensemble will perform in a variety of venues. First session open for new interested clarinetists to audition. Bring current repertoire and scales.


Recorder Ensembles

ADVANCED/INTERMEDIATE RECORDER ENSEMBLE -
Tuesday, 1:30-2:30 pm
$210 per semester

INTERMEDIATE RECORDER ENSEMBLE -
Tuesday, 7:00-8:00 pm
$195 per semester

15 weeks starting September 14

Instructor: Sue Gleason

These intergenerational groups are for experienced ensemble players on soprano, alto, tenor and/or bass recorders. Good intonation and music reading skills encompassing the full range of the instrument are expected. We will explore music from a wide range of periods and styles in 3 to 6 or more parts. Consult the instructor to discuss which ensemble is right for you.


VOICE DEPARTMENT

Indian Hill A Cappella Ages 16 to adult

Thursday, 6:15-7:45 pm
$145 per semester
15 weeks starting September 16
Instructor: Paul Pampinella


This class is designed to help students more deeply explore the subtle nuances of small ensemble singing (1 or 2 voices per part). The aspects of blend will be emphasized, including intonation, balance, vibrato vs. straight-tone, etc. Complete arrangements will be learned and performed in recital (by memory).  Styles will be diverse: Madrigal, Doo-Wop, Jazz, Contemporary (rock/pop/folk), and Holiday (during fall term). Vocal percussionists are welcome as these skills will be taught and/or coached.  All skill levels are welcome, but some choral experience is preferred.  Sight-reading ability is helpful, but not required. 12 student maximum.



Threshold Choir Ages 18+

First and Third Wednesday, 7:00-9:00 pm
No Tuition Charge
Choir meets year-round

Directors: Pam Espinosa, Charlotte Russell

An ensemble which honors the ancient tradition of singing at the bedsides of people who are struggling, some with living, some with dying. Indian Hill's Threshold Choir is open to both men and women. The main criteria for membership are feeling a shiver down your back at hearing about the Choir, and, along with a 6-month commitment, one should be able to carry a tune. A "fancy" voice is not necessary. In addition to singing, members enjoy socializing, networking and an occasional mini-workshop with a local musician or spiritual leader. To register, call the Music School office, (978) 486-9524. For more information, follow this link


GUITAR DEPARTMENT

Advanced Guitar and Bass Ensemble Ages 8 and up

Monday, 7:30-9:00 pm
$240 per semester
12 weeks starting September 27

Instructor: Eric Baldwin

This ensemble is for advanced level players who already read music. Class will explore three- and four-part harmonized guitar music from the pop and jazz repertory. Students will also learn to improvise and play in a group setting.


JAZZ DEPARTMENT

Beginning Jazz Ensemble Ages 8 to Teens

Wednesday, 6:30-8:00 pm
$240 per semester
12 weeks starting September 29

Instructor: Eric Baldwin

For beginning to intermediate level players, this group concentrates on tune learning, ear training and sight reading. The repertory will cover standards, jazz songs, blues and popular songs.



Contemporary Jazz and Fusion Ensemble Ages 8 and up

Tuesday, 7:15-8:45 pm
$240 per semester
12 weeks starting September 28

Instructor: Patrick Mottaz

In this ensemble we will explore different styles and grooves from straight-ahead jazz to fusion. You will learn to listen and interact with other musicians. We will use different techniques to develop your improvisational skills and bring cohesion in your solos and accompaniment.

Requirements: Students need to be able to read music at the intermediate level including chord symbols and melodies. They also need to have a basic understanding of harmony, scales and arpeggios for improvisation. At the first session students will have a chance to try out the ensemble and will be able to sign up upon teacher approval.

Instrumentation: piano, guitar, bass, sax, brass



Jazz Lab Ages 16 to Adult

Thursday, 7:00-8:30 pm
$215 per semester
15 weeks starting September 16

Instructor: Bill Jones

Ideal for beginning jazz players or classical musicians looking to try something new. Learn the essentials of group improvisation in a small combo. Each semester this class will focus on a small number of jazz standards, exploring various improvisational ideas for each. The group will perform several times during the year at Indian Hill and other venues.



Jazz Standards Band Ages 18+

Monday, 7:30-9:00 pm
$205 per semester
15 weeks starting September 13
Instructor: Justin Meyer


Permission of instructor required. For advanced players.  Explore the rich heritage of America’s great art form.  Each year this ensemble will focus on a small number of jazz standards, creating original arrangements from simple lead sheets.  Depending on the interest of the students, the group may spend one semester focusing on the work of a single composer.  This ensemble will perform several times during the year at Indian Hill and other local venues.



MIXED INSTRUMENTS

Sessions on the Hill (Traditional Irish Music Ensemble) All ages

Thursday, 8:00-9:00 pm

$115 per semester
(includes one workshop)
$10 per session drop-in fee
(with prior approval of instructor)
$20 per workshop for non-members

12 weeks starting September 23
Instructor: Laurel Martin

Indian Hill Is pleased to host the region's newest Irish session, bringing Traditional Irish music to Littleton. Led by Irish traditional fiddler Laurel Martin, the group will develop a repertoire of traditional Irish session tunes. Music taught "by ear", but written music will be available. Several times during the school year a workshop and performance is offered, with some of the area's finest Irish musicians (see below). Prior experience with Irishmusic is not necessary; however, an intermediate level of proficiency on your instrument is required. All instruments utilized in traditional Irish music are welcome (violin, flute, concertina, tin whistle, guitar, button accordion, uillean pipes, etc.)

Workshop Schedule: TBA

For more information about these workshops and other Irish events, please visit MUSICVisions at:
www.mymusicvisions.com




IMPORTANT NOTICE: Indian Hill Music School reserves the right at any time to cancel a class due to insufficient enrollment. We will make every effort to hold all classes offered. In the case of a cancellation, those effected will be notified as soon as possible and a full refund will be issued if another suitable class is not available.

QUESTIONS? CALL THE OFFICE AT (978) 486-9524.