Learn how to play in the context of an ensemble while developing improvisational skills and learning basic grooves. Repertoire includes standard Latin-jazz tunes and pieces developed in the workshop. There will be performances each winter and spring quarter.
Develop ensemble skills, such as soloing and accompanying, while you build a repertoire of songs to prepare for performances. This workshop will cover chords, progressions, scales, patterns, and “licks” found in a variety of blues styles.
Beginning singers: this is a fun and supportive environment for learning basic vocal technique, fundamentals of breathing and supporting your tone, note reading, and simple two and three part harmony. This class is designed for singers with little to no experience. It is focused on group singing, but also allows for attention to individual needs.
Improve your rhythmic skills and develop your musicianship through Flamenco, Afro-American and Latin music. Emphasis is given to the study of “compás,” the Flamenco rhythmic flow, and “clave,” the key rhythmic concept in the Cuban polyrhythmic ensemble. In addition to their instrument, students will play “palmas” (hand clapping) and percussion.
This group class uses Body-Mind Centering and Feldenkrais methods to facilitate creative expression. It is an inquiry into the relationship between the body and the mind through movement, guided attention and non-verbal dialogue. This work can create fertile ground for new performance material and improvisation. In the process students may find improvements in breathing, tone, coordination and technical proficiency as well as prevent and rehabilitate injuries.Students should bring their instruments if they have one and a piece of music to play or compose at the end of each class.
Enjoy performing more and build your confidence on stage. This class will give students a chance to practice performing, get structured feedback, learn details of stage etiquette, discuss strategies for dealing with performance anxieties, and practice simple meditation and stretching exercises to enhance focus and relaxation during performance. Held at Instructor's Studio.
Intermediate Choir is for students ages 9-12 or roughly from 4th-6th grade.
Ensembles and orchestras rehearse weekly in Los Altos and perform at Flint Center, Spangenberg Theatre, Foothill College and the San Mateo Performing Arts Center throughout the year. Two levels of wind ensemble are directed by Rosita Amador.
Ensembles and orchestras rehearse weekly in Los Altos and perform at Flint Center, Spangenberg Theatre, Foothill College and the San Mateo Performing Arts Center throughout the year. The string ensembles (Junior String Ensemble and Intermediate String Ensemble) are under the direction of Kati Kyme.