Winds Department
Winds Department - Core Philosophy
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| Wind Department Co-Chair - Donald Zook | Wind Department Co-Chair - Rob Reustle |
The Conservatory’s Winds Department offers the finest instruction on all woodwind and brass instruments in all genres of music. With a vast array of traditional and contemporary chamber music literature available on these instruments, students, once they learn the basics, are strongly encouraged to participate in chamber music ensembles. This not only serves to improve the student’s musical ear, but it also helps provide valuable experience and confidence-building, accelerating the student’s overall musical growth.
Instrument Instruction
Private Lessons
Students may start lessons on flute, saxophone, clarinet, bassoon, oboe, trumpet, trombone, tuba or French horn as early as grade four or five. Students may begin Suzuki instruction on flute as early as age four. At the end of each 17-week semester, private lesson students receive a full written evaluation from their teacher to keep the student and the parent apprised of the student’s progress. Private and semi-private lessons are offered at 30 minute, 45 minute, and 60 minute lengths. Group instruction (for three or more students) is 60 minutes in length.
Our lesson prices are based on two 17-week semesters. Students choosing to pay for a full year receive 34 lessons at the 32-week price.
Woodwind Department - Class Offerings
Basic Musicianship Workshops
Vartan Aghababian, Edwina Li, Margaret Li
Basic Musicianship is offered to all private lesson and Suzuki students to supplement their music literacy. These one hour classes review and teach basic elements of music.
Advanced students in the Honors Woodwind, Brass, Percussion and Jazz/Rock Ensembles are chosen by audition
For serious middle and high school musicians and vocalists. Min. 2 years playing experience.
Managing Director Candace Kniffen
Artistic Director Steven Karidoyanes
BaYS is an auditioned*, sequential youth orchestra program.
Dolce Strings (string ensemble)
Sinfonia (intermediate full orchestra)
Symphony (advanced full orchestra)
Chamber opportunities are available in strings, percussion, woodwind, brass, voice and mixed instruments with or without voice.
Winds Department Special Events
Woodwind/Brass Competition
Woodwind and Brass students compete. Click for details
Students compete. Click for details
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for those who can document financial need.
Financial Aid deadlines and application.