Class Descriptions

Orchestras

Prelude—9:00-10:30am

An introduction to orchestral techniques through rehearsal and performance. Students will strengthen sight-reading skills and learn to follow basic beat patterns.

$155/semester ~ Mrs. Kristina Rizzo, conductor

Intermezzo—9:00-11:00am

Focus will be turned to more complex rhythmic concepts, key signatures, and bowings. This group will experience rhythmic independence and rich harmonic textures.

$175/semester ~ Miss Emily Schaad, conductor

Mazurka—9:00-11:00am

This orchestra will study advancing concepts of tone, intonation and rhythm. A significant focus will be placed on developing ensemble, phrasing and listening skills. Students will be expected to possess developed ensemble and sight-reading skills.

$190/semester ~ Mr. Jon Handman, conductor

Tarantella—12:00-2:15pm

An advanced string orchestra to develop rhythmic independence through exploration of repertoire and musical ideas. This ensemble will work to cultivate a high-quality performance with mature sound, tight ensemble and uniform articulation.

$205/semester ~ Ms. Elizabeth Handman, conductor

Chaconne*—12:00-2:30pm

This orchestra will study works from the standard string orchestra repertoire. Detailed attention will be given to rhythmic independence, development of articulation, precision of intonation and phrasing.

$450/year ~ Miss Emily Schaad, conductor

Vivace*—12:00-3:00pm

This orchestra takes an in-depth look at standard string orchestra repertoire. The group will encounter a wide range of composers with detailed attention to ensemble, phrasing and style.

$480/year ~ Mr. Jon Handman, conductor

*Chaconne and Vivace are offered as full-year courses only.

 

Ensembles

Ensembles meet 6 Saturdays at 10:00am. Participation is open to all afternoon orchestra members and tuition is $100 per semester.

Viola ~ Ms. Elizabeth Handman

Cello ~ Ms. Laurel Pistey

Bass ~ Mr. Phil Helm

 

Fiddlers

Strawberry Hill Fiddlers is a unique program based on learning traditional music by ear. Open to violin, viola, cello and bass players, the Fiddlers offer exposure to various non-classical styles, improvisation, singing, dancing and body percussion. Classes meet Tuesday evenings at Hyde Park United Methodist Church.

Boysenberry: (4:45-5:45) An introductory fiddling class for intermediate players ~ Miss Emily Schaad, instructor
$150/semester

Cranberry: (5:45-6:45) Advancing fiddling techniques for players of advanced intermediate levels. ~ Miss Emily Schaad, instructor
$150/semester

Raspberry: (5:45-7:00) A class for advanced players with performance opportunities ~ Mrs. Carole Schaad, instructor
$165/semester

Strawberry*: (7:00-9:00pm) An in-depth exploration of world music for experienced fiddlers ~ Carole & Emily Schaad, instructors
$225/semester

*Strawberry is offered only as a full-year course.