Fundamentals of Music

AMUSE's Fundamentals of Music series is designed to give students a more well-rounded music education. Classes may include topics in String Chamber Orchestra, Music Theory, Music History, Conducting, Breath Control, and Jazz.

Summer 2022 enrollment is now open. To receive our weekly newsletter with updates about upcoming class sessions and enrollment periods, sign up here. 

Cost: $180 for nine weeks, plus the cost of materials (unless otherwise stated)

Classes meet once a week for 50 minutes.

Classes may be meeting virtually or in person, this will be marked for each class. 

Performance Workshop for Strings - Online

Wednesday | 2:30pm - 3:20pm

Instructor: Suzanne Haitz

Level: Intermediate - Advanced

This course will focus on intermediate & advanced playing techniques for any and all string instruments. Class time will be split between lecture format & masterclass format. This class is great for students who wish to increase their stage presence, improve their phrasing, and learn from their peers!

June 22 - August 17

AMUSE String Chamber Orchestra - In Person

Thursday | TBA 

Cost: $100 / 4 weeks

Instructor: Bianca Lara

Level: Intermediate - Early Advanced | Ages: 11 - 16 years

The AMUSE String Chamber Orchestra (ASCO) is a group for intermediate level students looking for a creative and social ensemble setting. Repertoire is custom arranged to both challenge and compliment the level of the ensemble as well as engage in the learning of basic theory, music history, chamber music techniques, and performance etiquette. ASCO is an active group with an average of 4-5 performances a year. 

*To enroll in this class, please select "Group Strings" from the Type dropdown menu. 

Drum Circle - In Person

Monday & Wednesday | 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm 

Cost: $120 / 4 weeks

Instructor: Matt Karatsu

Level: 1st - 4th Grade

Required Materials: Drum Sticks, Shaker Eggs

In this class, young students will learn basic rhythms and music notation in a fun environment.  Students will also gain drumming skills for those that might want to be a percussionist!  This class is designed for young students who cannot be in a school run music program.

July 18 - August 10

Breathing & Rhythm - In Person

Monday & Wednesday | 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm 

Cost: $120 / 4 weeks

Instructor: Matt Karatsu

Level: Intermediate - Early Advanced

Required Materials: Drum Sticks, Shaker Eggs

This class is for all instrumental musicians to strengthen their ability to play ensemble rhythms along with learning how to play more cohesively in an ensemble setting.  For string and percussion players, this group is a great introduction to playing in conjunction with wind players.  For wind players, this class will help develop stronger and more controlled sound through better air control.

July 18 - August 10

*To enroll in this class, please select "String Chamber Orchestra" from the Type dropdown menu. 

Sign up here!