Piano Department

The Piano Department at ISM was established to meet the needs of students of all ages and abilities. Beginning with a natural hand/arm technique (developed in the last 30 years and now taught at many prestigious music conservatories), students at ISM learn to read and understand notes and musical symbols, as well as learn classical and more contemporary repertoire. Music theory is included in the lesson. The goal of the piano program is to encourage students to develop a love of music within a comprehensive program that is tailored 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 setting 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. Students are awarded with diplomas and report cards at each level. In addition, there are other numerous performance opportunities, such as recitals, MTNA festivals, and competitions. Semester evaluations are completed for each student at the end of the year.

Strings Department

(Violin, Viola, Cello, Guitar, Harp)

The Strings Program at ISM teaches note reading from the beginning, as well as proper technique and intonation. Suzuki and other method books are used in addition to recital repertoire to promote enjoyment, excellence and creativity. Music theory is taught in the lesson. The goal of the string 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 setting is available throughout the academic year. Yearly evaluations are completed for each student in order to monitor progress. Students may also participate at optional ASTA (American String Teachers Association) and/or Royal School of Music (ABRSM) exams. Certificates, awarded by level, serve as markers of progress through ASTA/ABRSM curriculum.

Voice Department

Voice classes 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 assistance in 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 and confidence.
 
ISM also offers performance opportunities such as formal recitals, yearly exams, festivals, 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 setting is available throughout the academic year.

Woodwind Department
(Flute, Clarinet, and Saxophone)

The Woodwind Program at ISM includes private instruction on all woodwind instruments of all levels. The goal of the woodwind program is to give students a love of music within a comprehensive program that is flexible to individual needs. All students learn note reading from the beginning, as well as proper technique and intonation. Complete method books are used in addition to recital repertoire to promote enjoyment, excellence and creativity. Music theory is taught in the lesson. 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 setting is available throughout the academic year. Yearly evaluations are completed for each student in order to monitor progress. Students may also participate at optional Royal School of Music (ABRSM) exams. Certificates, awarded by level, serve as markers of progress through ASTA/ABRSM curriculum.

Percussion/Drum Department
 
Students will learn all of the traditional rhythms 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. All styles are available including classical, jazz and pop. The opportunity to participate in a small ensemble setting is available throughout the academic year. Music theory is taught in 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 diploma program are available to interested students.

Copyright © 2003-2007 International School of Music. All Rights Reserved