Adult Programs

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Adult programs facilitate exploration and lifelong experiences in the arts. Courses of study are available for beginners, enthusiastic amateurs, and those with professional training.

Fall Semester 2012
Music: September 10 through January 12, 2013 (Music make-up week: January 14-19, 2013).

  • Music

    Private Music Instruction (ages 4-adult)
    Individual instruction with our faculty of world-class, conservatory-trained musicians is available in 30-, 45-, and 60-minute sessions in all instruments and voice. Please visit our website to view faculty biographies and related information. All classical music faculty of the Extension Division utilize The Carnegie Hall Royal Conservatory Achievement Program (TAP) syllabi. Students (even adults!) are encouraged to discuss this curriculum with instructors and consider participating in TAP examinations, as they provide a truly outstanding means of focusing your efforts on achievable and sustainable progress. To request placement in our private lesson program, new students should submit a Request for Private Instruction Form (available online) or contact the Extension Division office. Each student’s musical and personal needs are taken into consideration during the placement process. Teaching styles and availability vary, so 30- 45- or 60-minute trial lessons are recommended and available. Lessons are scheduled by arrangement 4-9 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays. We offer 15-week fall and spring semesters and a flexible 10-week summer semester. Please visit us online to learn more about instrumental and vocal study at the Extension Division.

    Private lesson tuition for instrumental, vocal, music theory and composition (per semester):

    30-minute weekly lessons: $450 ($30 per lesson) 45-minute weekly lessons: $675 ($45 per lesson) 1-hour weekly lessons: $900 ($60 per lesson)

    There is a surcharge for private study with Mason Gross School of the Arts faculty members.

    Group Instruction for Adult Beginners
    Class Piano I     | 6:40-7:30 p.m. Mondays
    Class Piano II | 7:40-8:30 p.m. Mondays

    Have you always wanted to learn how to play the piano? Here is your chance! These small classes meet in the Music Department’s piano lab, fully equipped with keyboards and headphones. Class Piano I is geared towards the development of basic keyboard skills and an understanding of music fundamentals. Class Piano II continues student’s development toward keyboard and musical proficiency.
    Tuition: $385 per semester (includes book)

    Class Guitar I | 10-10:50 a.m. Saturdays
    Class Guitar II | 11-11:50 a.m. Saturdays

    Class Guitar covers the basics of playing the guitar in a variety of styles. Standard and popular forms of notating music as well as basic improvisation are explored. Class Guitar II continues student’s development using a wide variety of music to teach fundamental technical and musical skills.
    Tuition: $385 per semester (includes book). Students must supply their own acoustic guitar for both classes.

    Music Theory for Adults
    Structured to meet the specific interests of adult participants, practical and creative applications of music theory are emphasized. Basic note-reading ability in at least one clef is a prerequisite for this class.
    Saturdays, 9:45-10:35 a.m. | Tuition: $290 per semester

    Composition Seminar
    This class provides an open forum for the presentation, discussion, performance and analysis of new music. Repertoire will be drawn from student compositions, as well as works by major contemporary composers. Issues to be discussed include orchestration, form, harmony, melody, counterpoint, texture, timbre, rhythm, meter, and performance practice. Composition Seminar is open to all high school and adult students who have completed at least one semester of High School Theory, Advanced High School Theory or Music Theory for Adults. Composition Seminar may be taken repeatedly, as the subject matter varies widely from class to class.
    Saturdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. | Tuition: $290 per semester
    Dr. Paul S. Undreiner, instructor

    Private Music Theory/Composition Instruction (ages 6-adult)
    Private composition and music theory instruction is available to students of all ages and levels of advancement. Students explore various compositional techniques through a variety of exercises, as well as through listening and analysis.

    Please contact the Extension Division office for scheduling information. Lessons billed at same rate as private instrumental and vocal instruction.