Instrumental and Vocal Ensembles

Instrumental and Vocal Ensembles/Classes

Making music in small ensembles is a perfect supplement to individual lessons. Within the unique setting of a small vocal, chamber music or percussion ensemble, students develop performance and listening skills, hone abilities of concentration and musical interaction, and experience the joy of learning and performing musical literature composed for this rewarding genre.

Ensembles are formed for students of all ages and levels. Students are placed in ensembles of three or more members according to schedules and levels of proficiency. Ensembles are scheduled throughout the week and on Saturdays. Each session is one hour. Private study at WCM is not required. Since members of ensembles are part of a music-making team, participants are expected to attend all rehearsals so that everyone can have the best possible musical learning experience.

$360 | one hour per week | 15 weeks
Class fee may be pro-rated depending on starting date. Registration fee applies to non-WCM students.

Sing for Your Life
A 10-week class for adults
Do people tell you that you have a nice voice, but you don’t really know what you’re doing? Are you embarrassed that you can’t “carry a tune in a bucket”? Did you sing when you were young, but somehow let it go? Does your voice feel worn out and tired? Here's the good news: it’s never too late to learn to sing or to improve your singing! This fun and informative class offers adults an opportunity to improve speaking and singing abilities through step-by-step instruction in traditional classical singing techniques. Through group songs, classical selections and Broadway hits, students will explore ways to improve basic body alignment, movement, breathing, voice onset and vocal agility. Gentle stretching exercises are included. An added benefit is an improved speaking voice too!
October 7 to December 9
1 to 2 pm, Tuesdays | $150
Aurelius Gori, DMA, instructor

Chamber Music Ensembles
Students of similar levels and ages are placed by audition into ensembles to learn and perform the classical music repertoire. Ensembles include trios, quartets, quintets, for various combinations of strings, winds and piano, as well as same instrument ensembles.

Vocal Ensembles
Vocal ensembles are offered for both children and adults.

Jazz Ensembles
Students of similar levels and ages are placed by audition into jazz ensembles.

Washington Conservatory Orchestra
A. Scott Wood, conductor
Open to amateur adult musicians of all levels. Learn and perform traditional and unusual orchestral literature with like-minded avid adult musicians in a friendly professional atmosphere.
Rehearsals: Tuesdays 8 pm Hearst Hall at the National Cathedral School.
Pay-as-you-can: in lieu of tuition, participants are encouraged to make tax-deductible contributions to the Washington Conservatory at the start of each semester.