Guided by some of New York City’s preeminent early music experts, our program welcomes students of all levels and backgrounds. We provide personalized one-on-one instruction, nurturing small group learning environments, and orchestral sessions where students play side-by-side with their teachers.
Apply to our Fall 2026 - Spring 2027 program!
Youth Ensemble (Ages 9–17)
For curious, creative young musicians from all cultural and financial backgrounds. The program offers a safe and encouraging learning environment where students can explore music, history, and teamwork through the recorder.
Schedule:
Meets once per week (2.5-hour sessions, 30 meetings per year)
Fall Semester: 14 sessions + 1 concert
Spring Semester: 14 sessions + 1 concert
Class Size: 12 students + 3 teaching artists (+ volunteer assistants)
Focus Areas:
Learning to play historical instruments
Reading and understanding music
Exploring early music and cultural history
Building teamwork and confidence through ensemble playing
For adult amateurs who are passionate about music and eager to learn in a welcoming, and respectful learning environment.
Schedule:
Meets once per week (2.5-hour sessions, 30 meetings per year)
Fall Semester: 14 sessions + 1 concert
Spring Semester: 14 sessions + 1 concert
Class Size: 12 students + 3 teaching artists
Focus Areas:
Learning to play historical instruments
Music literacy and ensemble skills
Exploring early music traditions from the Americas and Europe
Fostering community and joy through shared musical experiences
Tuition and Scholarship
Tuition
$1,125 per semester (includes 14 classes, each 2.5 hours long, plus a seasonal concert)
$2,250 for the academic year (includes 28 classes, each 2.5 hours long, plus a seasonal concert)
Scholarship Option
We are aiming to offer scholarships and are committed to providing financial aid whenever possible. If you are seeking financial assistance, please select "Yes" under the scholarship section and include a brief explanation of your financial need at the end of the application.
Curriculum
Weeks 1–2: Orientation & Fundamentals
- New students audition
- Introductions, seating assignments, and ensemble expectations
- Warm-ups, tuning, and basic ensemble techniques (rhythms, clefs, fingerings, scales)
- Sectionals (strings, winds, continuo)
- Sight-reading repertoire
Weeks 3–5: Sectional Focus
- Sectionals (strings, winds, continuo)
- Technique building: bowing, articulation, dynamics
- Begin rehearsing 2–3 pieces of concert repertoire
Weeks 6–8: Ensemble Integration
- Full orchestra rehearsals / Sectionals (strings, winds, continuo)
- Focus on balance, blend, and listening across sections
- Introduce a challenging piece or movement
Weeks 9–11: Musical Expression & Refinement
- Interpretation: phrasing, tempo, and style
- Address tricky passages and ensemble coordination
Weeks 12–14: Final Rehearsals
- Run-throughs of full concert program
- Dress rehearsal (week 14)
Week 15: Performance Week
- Final concert (invite families and community)