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Piano
Piano is the most popular and perhaps the best beginning instrument
for the young and young at heart musician. All styles from classical
to jazz and pop are being offered to students of all ages and
abilities, be they beginners or very advanced. We have wide range of
students: students who want to play just for fun, students who excel
with the Royal School of Music curriculum or students who need to
prepare for a career in music. Since we have many teachers on the
faculty we are able to match students with a teacher that works best
with their particular age, ability and interest.
Beginning with the natural hand/arm technique, students at ISM learn
solid basic technique (correct position, finger dexterity,
flexibility, and more). Students also learn the rudiments of music:
sight reading, rhythmic notation, meter, and harmony. Since the
piano allows for highly diverse methodologies and repertoire, music
can be carefully selected to match the needs and strengths of each
student. Memorization, theory, practicing skills, musicality, and
self-listening are taught from the first lesson. In older more
advanced students, ISM teaches musical clarity and power, technical
facility, development of a large tonal palate, and an understanding
of musical structure. Students continue to expand their repertoire
from Baroque to 20th century composers, while searching for their
own voice through interpretation.
The goal of the piano program is to enhance students' love of music
within a comprehensive program that is flexible to individual needs.
Students perform solo pieces for the optional annual winter and
spring formal recitals. Proper performance etiquette is emphasized.
The opportunity to participate in a small ensemble is available
throughout the academic year.
Also, ISM is Bethesda’s Center for the National Piano Guild Piano
Auditions/American College of Musicians. This program is optional
and allows students to participate and demonstrate their level of
proficiency. Upon each level completed, students are awarded with
diplomas and report cards. In addition, there are numerous
performance opportunities, such as recitals, MTNA festivals, and
competitions. Semester evaluations are completed for each student at
the end of the year.
Jazz Piano
Jazz Piano is offered for more advanced and interested students. A
firm understanding of music notation and rhythm is recommended
before beginning formal jazz study. Instruction in jazz piano
includes chord voicings and symbols, scales, improvisation, and
comping.
To schedule a trial lesson
call 301.365.5888
Enroll Now! Click Here to Submit Registration Information.
Strings (Violin, Viola, Cello,
Double Bass and Harp)
Our string program offers private instruction in violin, viola,
cello, double bass, and harp. All styles from classical to jazz and
pop are being offered to students of all ages and abilities, be they
beginners or very advanced. We have wide range of students: students
who want to play just for fun, students who excel with the Royal
School of Music curriculum or students who need to prepare for a
career in music. Since we have many teachers on the faculty, we are
able to match students with a teacher that works best with their
particular age, ability and interest.
The String Program at ISM begins with music notation reading, proper
technique, and attention to intonation in order to enable a smooth
transition into solo, chamber, and orchestral playing. Suzuki and
other method books are used in addition to recital repertoire to
promote enjoyment, excellence and creativity. Students are taught
various bowings, sound production, fingering, vibrato, position
changes, dexterity, and musicianship. Lessons also incorporate music
theory and ear training. The goal of the strings program is to give
students a love of music within a comprehensive program that is
flexible to individual needs. Students perform solo pieces with an
accompanist for the optional annual winter and spring formal
recitals. Proper performance etiquette is emphasized. The
opportunity to participate in a small ensemble is available
throughout the academic year. Yearly evaluations are completed for
each student in order to monitor progress. Students may also
participate in the optional ISM Evaluation Program, American String
Teachers Association (ASTA) and/or Royal School of Music (ABRSM)
exams. Certificates, awarded by level, serve as markers of progress
through ASTA/ABRSM curriculum.
To schedule a trial lesson call
301.365.5888
Enroll Now! Click Here to Submit Registration Information.
Guitar (Acoustic, Electric, Bass
Guitar)
Our private guitar lessons include acoustic, electric and bass
guitar. Our faculty are specialists in classical, jazz, rock, pop,
and just about every other guitar style imaginable. ISM’s teachers
come from around the world to bring our students the highest quality
and diversity of instruction. The proper theory and technique is
covered in the lesson. Guitar students develop listening skills,
left and right hand independence, coordination, reading skills and
improvisational creativity. All guitarists will learn to read
tablature as well as standardized music notation, chords, finger
picking, lead guitar, and rhythm technique. Classical Guitar In
classical guitar, students study scales, chords, and picking
patterns in a five finger approach to the instrument. As students
progress, the repertoire incorporates pieces that utilize higher
positions on the guitar neck. This method ensures a firm grasp of
fret board knowledge and flexibility. Jazz guitar Jazz guitar method
focuses on basic chord forms and their extensions, scales, modes,
strumming (comping), and picking styles. Students work on written
music, the ability to read lead sheets, and improvisation. Rock
Guitar Students wishing to work on folk, rock, or pop styles learn
basic strumming and finger picking styles, while working on
pentatonic scales, and rudimentary chord progressions. Guitarists
are encouraged to play their favorite artists’ music and to begin
song-writing themselves. Bass Guitar Bass guitar is taught at ISM as
well. Correct technique, finger strength, dexterity, arpeggios,
‘walking’, chord symbols, slap techniques, and fretting are
especially emphasized.
To schedule a trial lesson call
301.365.5888
Enroll Now! Click Here to Submit Registration Information.
Voice Program
Voice classes at ISM introduce the fundamentals of breathing,
diaphragm control, correct posture, good vocal support, tone
production and diction in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. In
addition, students receive training in pitch, tone, agility,
projection, timing and phrasing.
ISM strives to give voice students the best training possible to
prevent injury and to increase range, flexibility, and control.
Students gain confidence as they learn to use their voices properly
and expressively while reducing strain and physical tension.
Repertoire includes classical (opera/oratorio), folk, jazz, pop and
Broadway selections. These lessons can also help students prepare
for future auditions through vocal coaching, staging instruction and
selecting appropriate repertoire. Students learn vocal and physical
warm-ups and how to work with an accompanist.
Classical voice involves the study and application of vocal
technique using repertoire from folk songs to English, French,
German and Italian music in the original languages. Emphasis on
voice production may include clarity of speech, economy of breath
and proper articulation. The student should ultimately be able to
sing with ease confidence and enjoyment.
For children younger than 10, we recommend a preliminary assessment
with one of our voice faculty members in order to assess vocal
development and capability. Early instruction in voice focuses on
simple songs and pitch exercises to aid in developing a musically
tuned ear in a fun, relaxed environment.
ISM also offers performance opportunities for its vocal students,
including formal recitals, yearly exams, festivals, and
competitions. These performances allow students to showcase their
work, giving them an opportunity to share their progress with family
and friends. Proper performance etiquette is emphasized. In
addition, the opportunity to participate in a small ensemble is
available throughout the academic year.
To schedule a trial lesson call
301.365.5888
Enroll Now! Click Here to Submit Registration Information.
Woodwinds (Recorder, Flute, Piccolo,
Clarinet, Saxophone, Oboe, Bassoon)
The Woodwind Program at ISM includes private instruction on Piccolo,
Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Oboe, Bassoon, Recorder for all levels.
The goal of the woodwind program is to enhance the students' love of
music within a comprehensive program that is flexible to individual
needs. ISM experienced faculty can help students enhance their
skills for their school band program, orchestra, any popular music
groups or develop advanced skills to become soloists.
All students learn note reading from the beginning, as well as
proper technique and intonation. For beginners, basic concepts such
as posture, air support, articulation, and hand position are taught
to provide a firm foundation for future growth. Instructors
supplement technical exercises with fun and appropriate repertoire.
Students learn music theory as an integral part of lessons. Complete
method books are used in addition to recital repertoire to promote
enjoyment, excellence and creativity.
Advanced students are introduced to more challenging repertoire
(sonatas, concerti) and begin using concert etudes for their
technical development. Special techniques required to play more
difficult pieces (flutter tongue, multiphonics, half-hole,
doubletongue) are introduced as their skills develop in addition to
alternate fingerings, advanced scales and arpeggios, and more
complex rhythms. Students perform solo pieces with an accompanist
for the annual winter and spring formal recitals. Proper performance
etiquette is emphasized. The opportunity to participate in a small
ensemble is available throughout the academic year. Yearly
evaluations are completed for each student in order to monitor
progress. Students may also participate in optional ISM Performance
Evaluation, and/or Royal School of Music (ABRSM) exams.
Certificates, awarded by level, serve as markers of progress through
the ABRSM curriculum.
To schedule a trial lesson call
301.365.5888
Enroll Now! Click Here to Submit Registration Information.
Brass (Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba,
Cornet, Flugelhorn, Euphonium/Baritone, French Horn)
ISM offers private instruction in trumpet, trombone, tuba, cornet,
flugelhorn, euphonium/baritone, and French horn. Students for these
instruments usually are ages 9 or older as they need to have
developed a great lung capacity and in the case of the tuba need to
be big enough to hold the instrument. ISM is proud to have some of
the finest brass faculty in the Washington Metro area who can help
students enhance their skills for their school band program or
develop advanced skills to become soloists.
From beginners through advanced, ISM students are taught the
essentials of sound production, rhythm, and articulation in all
musical styles. As students progress, they develop sight reading
skills, technique, and repertoire. They are also encouraged to
analyze, interpret, and expand on their knowledge of music theory.
In addition to helping students prepare for concerts, competitions,
and ISM evaluations, all brass students are invited to perform in
ISM recitals.
To schedule a trial lesson call
301.365.5888
Enroll Now! Click Here to Submit Registration Information.
Percussion/Drum Lessons
In percussion lessons, students learn all of the traditional rhythm
rudiments and coordination that are the basic building blocks of
proper percussion technique. A method book is used in addition to
recital repertoire to promote enjoyment, excellence, and creativity.
Since percussion is one of the most utilized instruments around the
world, all styles are available—from classical and jazz to pop,
reggae, Latin rhythms, and hip-hop.
Although wide variety of drum/percussion lessons are offered, most
of our students learn on a drum kit. Typically students start drum
lessons at age 8 as students need to be able to reach both the pedal
and the high hat. We do have some younger students but suggest they
come in for a trial drum lesson to see if they are big enough to get
started.
The opportunity to participate in a small ensemble is available
throughout the academic year. Music theory and an understanding of
the role of harmony are an integral part of the lesson. The goal of
the program is to give students a love of music within a
comprehensive program that is flexible to individual needs. Yearly
evaluations are completed for each student to monitor progress.
Optional recitals and a diploma program are available to interested
students.
To schedule a trial lesson call
301.365.5888
Enroll Now! Click Here to Submit Registration Information.
Music Theory & Composition
ISM offers group and individual classes in theory and composition.
Group lessons are offered once per week for 45 minutes. ISM’s
faculty gently guides students through the basic understanding and
construction of music. Whether as a supplement to certificate
programs or for personal growth, all individual lessons can be
custom tailored to the specific desires and aspirations of students.
Music theory directly furthers a student’s ability to understand and
communicate the full meaning of music. ISM theory classes teach the
“language of music”, enabling students to learn and memorize faster,
improve sight reading, and render informed interpretations. These
classes are a fantastic addition to regular individual lessons on a
given instrument. Registered ISM students will receive a discount
for these invaluable classes.
Music theory builds student musicianship, and directly furthers a
student’s ability to understand and communicate full musical
meaning. With sufficient theory background, students learn and
memorize faster, and generally sight-read better than students
without theory knowledge. To develop the ability to hear and
manipulate sound mentally, vital for effective musical performance,
ear training is strongly emphasized in class. Well developed theory
skill also forms the basis for student composition, and/or any
styles of improvisation. In theory classes, students learn basic
knowledge of note reading in treble and bass clefs, rhythmic values,
and simple terminology. As the students progress, they are able to
recognize and analyze complex harmonic and rhythmic applications in
music. These classes provide the means by which students can
approach any musical score or performance with intelligence,
creativity and insight. Upper levels cover formal analysis, harmonic
procedures, ear-training, and “inner-hearing” as students’ knowledge
of music history and literature continues to broaden.
Music Fundamentals:
Beginner theory is a fantastic supplement for private instrumental
instruction. Classes introduce musical concepts from the very
beginning. Students learn to read and write music starting with
simple notation (staves, clefs, key signatures) and progress through
more complex ideas including scales, chords, and rhythms. Classes
are given once per week for 45 minutes. Our maximum class size is
ten students. Students can expect to gain a deeper insight into
musical construction which aids performance technique and
comprehension.
Intermediate Theory:
Intermediate Theory classes pick up where Music Fundamentals leaves
off. Concepts taught include simple harmonic progressions, chordal
inversions, simple structures and forms, style, basic history,
definitions of Italian directions, and guided listening examples.
Advanced Theory:
Advanced Theory meets once per week for 45 minutes. These classes
run for 15 weeks and are open to all students who have the necessary
background in theory. Advanced Theory deals with the concepts
covered in intermediate theory (forms, structure, harmony, melody,
counterpoint) but on a much more in-depth level. Through analysis,
guided listening, score study, and even composition, students of
Advanced Theory will gain the tools needed to approach even the most
challenging of pieces.
ABRSM Theory:
ISM prepares interested students for the practical and theory
portions of the exams sponsored by the Associated Board of the Royal
School of Music.
Music Composition:
The purpose of studying composition is to encourage and enhance
creative thinking in music. Formal instruction in music composition
is available at all ability levels. These courses include voice
leading, harmony, standard chord progression and voicing procedures,
analysis of standard musical forms and structural writing, melody,
and counterpoint. In addition to creating original works,
composition students are taught to analyze and compose in a variety
of musical styles. Students are encouraged to develop a personal
style while studying a wide range of composition techniques.
Completion of Music Fundamentals or an equivalent understanding of
music reading is required. Students will be evaluated in a mandatory
trial lesson.
Song Writing:
Song writing is composition made easy! Geared towards a more
informal approach to composition, students of Song Writing will
master harmonic progressions, simple rules of voice leading, song
forms, and arrangement of texts. Basic proficiency in music reading
is strongly recommended, as is experience on a harmonic instrument
(guitar, piano, banjo, etc.)
Jazz Composition:
Studies in jazz composition include understanding chord notation,
deciphering lead sheets, voicing of parts for diverse ensembles, and
standard jazz forms. Familiarity with keyboard instruments is
strongly recommended but not required. The ability to read music and
fulfillment of Intermediate Theory (or an equivalent understanding
of basic theory) is a pre-requisite.
To schedule a trial lesson
call 301.365.5888
Enroll Now! Click Here to Submit Registration Information.
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Call Now for Current Openings:
301.365.5888
(Next to Montgomery Mall)
301.657.0763
(Next to Friendship Heights) |
