GROUP LESSONS
In addition to private lessons, Longy offers group lessons in piano, strings and voice. Group lessons are an ideal way to try out an instrument and to become familiar with basic musical notation. The size of classes is limited, so participants are encouraged to register early to guarantee placement. Group instruction provides the opportunity to acquaint or reacquaint students with the basics of performance and musicianship in a non-threatening environment—a low-cost alternative to private lessons.
CLASS INSTRUCTION
Longy offers a wide array of non-performance and performance participation optional classes for adults in music theory and composition, jazz theory, improvisation, music history, and Dalcroze. In addition to these classes, Longy offers several workshops throughout the year designed as unique, imaginative, and intensive learning experiences.
Continuing Studies students are also eligible to enroll in courses that are a part of the School’s Conservatory curriculum. Students must meet pre-requisite requirements and receive permission from the instructor prior to registering for Conservatory courses.
Detailed information about classes is available in the Course Bulletin, available upon request (; 617-876-0956 ext. 500) or click on the link below.
Longy's classes in theory and musicianship are designed to create a well-rounded musician by teaching the fundamental skills which support instrumental performance training. Students with no knowledge of music notation should start their studies with How to Read Music, either prior to or concurrently with private lessons. Theory I covers a basic overview of the fundamentals of music theory, while Theory II and the Short Course topics offer more advanced students an opportunity to study major works in depth, building on their skills in theory and harmonic analysis.
Students with advanced theory skills may investigate Conservatory courses in theory and solfège or may arrange semiprivate or private composition lessons.
Short course! Dalcroze Eurhythmics: Improvisation in the Piano Studio Fee: $150
Course: DA005
Instructor: Tucker
Meets: Sundays, 2:00-4:00 PM
Spring '08: March 2, 9, 16
3 two-hour sessions
Enliven your piano studio with improvisation techniques for students of all ages. Improvisation can enhance the study of piano by encouraging creativity and imagination, expanding knowledge of musical elements, developing musical memory and aural skills, as well as building confidence. An excellent class for private piano teachers and elementary school teachers. No previous improvisation experience necessary.
How to Read Music Fee: $275/semester
Course: TH001
Instructor: Van Buskirk
Meets: Thursdays, 7:30-8:30 PM
Fall '07: Oct. 4-Dec. 13 (10 meetings)
Spring '08: Feb. 7-Apr. 17 (10 meetings)
For adults with no previous knowledge of musical notation, this class introduces all the basic concepts and skills required to read music. A lively, hands-on approach helps students gain confidence in reading and hearing scales, keys, rhythms, intervals, and other basic elements of musical language. Recommended for students beginning instrumental study or who enroll in Beginning Voice Class. (Course # VO010 students who register concurrently in Beginning Voice Class and How to Read Music will receive a 25% discount on How to Read Music.)
Music Theory I Fee: $275/semester
Course: TH011
Instructor: Van Buskirk
Meets: Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 PM
Fall '07: Oct. 4-Dec. 13 (10 meetings)
Spring '08: Feb. 7-Apr. 17 (10 meetings)
For adults with some musical experience and knowledge of notation, this class solidifies knowledge of scales and intervals and introduces chords in major and minor keys and their inversions. The course integrates ear training, keyboard harmony, and performance issues into a discussion of the ingredients of chord progressions.
Music Theory II Fee: $275/semester
Course: TH012
Instructor: Van Buskirk
Meets: Thursdays, 7:30-8:30 PM
Fall '07: Oct. 4-Dec. 13 (10 meetings)
Spring '08: Feb. 7-Apr. 17 (10 meetings)
Prerequisite: Music Theory I or permission of the instructor.
A continuation of Music Theory I, this course builds on a requisite knowledge of chords in the writing of simple four-part progressions and two-part counterpoint. The chorales of J.S. Bach serve as models for recognizing and writing effective harmony and voice-leading, including use of seventh chords and nonharmonic tones.
Sight-Reading/Eurhythmics for Singers Fee: $335/semester
Course: DA003
Instructor: Ishizuka
Meets: Thursdays, 6:00-7:30 PM
Fall '07: Oct. 4-Dec. 13 (10 meetings)
Spring '08: Feb. 7-Apr. 17 (10 meetings)
Learn to connect the eye with the ear and body so you can pass that audition and sing with the chorus or choir you've always wanted to join. This is a course for people who love to sing but are held back by lack of sight-reading or rhythmic ability.
Short course! Analysis of Piano Literature Fee: $245
Course: TH051
Instructor: Van Buskirk
Meets: Tuesdays, 7:30-9:00 PM
Fall '07: Oct. 16, 23, Nov. 6, 13 (4 meetings)
Prerequisite: Music Theory I or permission of the instructor
Analysis of Piano Literature will provide a theoretical background for the study of standard piano repertory. The course is designed to continue the study of music theory through the analysis of piano music. Topics such as harmonic progression, phrase structure, form, and texture will be discussed by looking at movements of larger works by Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, and Chopin. This is a great course to continue the study of theory while deepening your understanding of the standard piano literature. The repertory for the course will change every year so re-registrants are welcome!
Short course! Analysis of Piano Literature Fee: $245
Course: TH051
Instructor: Van Buskirk
Meets: Tuesdays, 7:30-9:00 PM
Fall '07: Oct. 16, 23, Nov. 6, 13 (4 meetings)
Prerequisite: Music Theory I or permission of the instructor
Analysis of Piano Literature will provide a theoretical background for the study of standard piano repertory. The course is designed to continue the study of music theory through the analysis of piano music. Topics such as harmonic progression, phrase structure, form, and texture will be discussed by looking at movements of larger works by Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, and Chopin. This is a great course to continue the study of theory while deepening your understanding of the standard piano literature. The repertory for the course will change every year so re-registrants are welcome !
Longy has a tradition of leadership in the field of early music, both in the Conservatory and Continuing Studies. The following special classes for Continuing Studies students are performance-based. For further information or to arrange an audition time, please contact Denise Carter, Administrative Assistant, at or 617.876.0956 x 650. Students who are continuing from previous years may register directly with Karen Burciaga at or 617.876.0956 x532.
Consort Music of John Jenkins Fee: $415
COURSE: EM002
Instructor: Hershey
Meets: Thursdays, 6:30-8:00 PM
Fall '07: Sept. 6-Nov. 29 (12 meetings)
The viol consorts of John Jenkins (1592-1678) will be the centerpiece of this performance class, complemented by fantasias of two of Jenkins' older contemporaries, Thomas Lupo and Alfonso Ferrabosco II. Jenkins was the foremost composer during the reign of Charles I, the second quarter of the 17th century, and his work was the culmination of the rich tradition of Jacobean consort music. Performance at the end of the semester. Open to five viol players by audition or Permission of instructor.
Viol Quartets of Matthew Locke and Henry Purcell Fee: $415
Course: EM012
Instructor: Hershey
Meets: Thursdays, 6:30-8:00 PM
Spring '08: Jan. 31-Apr. 24 (12 meetings)
A continuation of the fall semester class, this class will concentrate on works from the last phase of English consort repertoire, a selection of works by Matthew Locke, William Lawes, John Hingeston, and Henry Purcell. The tumultuous period from Cromwell's Commonwealth to the Restoration of Charles II produced some of the most inventive and extravagant viol music written. Purcell's famous homage fantasies are a brilliant final commentary on the English musical tradition he inherited. Performance at the end of the semester. Open to four viol players by audition.
Early Music Ensembles (formerly Baroque Chamber Ensemble)
Fee: $405
Course: EM005
Instructor: Epple
Meets: TBA (10 hours)
For adult players and singers of all levels who are interested in early music and who would like to collaborate with one or more other musicians. After an initial interview, every effort will be made to place individuals in compatible ensembles. All ensembles will meet with a faculty coach for 10 hours during the semester and have the opportunity to perform at the end of the semester.
Music of Maddelena Casulana and Orlando di Lassus Fee: $335
Course: EM015
Instructor: Catt
Meets: Tuesdays, 6:00-7:30 PM
Fall '07: Sept. 11-Nov. 27 (no class 10/23, 11/20) for 1.5 hours (10 weeks)
Voices, strings, recorders
Maddelena Casulana was the first woman in the history of Western music to have her music published. This performance class explores the lush harmonies, passion, and chromaticism of her three- and four-part madrigals. In addition, we will look at the music of her peers, including Orlando di Lassus who championed her work. The course provides opportunities for soloists and chamber musicians in a wide variety of combinations.
April in Paris : Music of Medieval France Fee: $335
Course: EM016
Instructor: Catt
Meets: Tuesdays, 6:00-7:30 PM
Spring '07: Feb. 5-May 6 (no class 2/26, 3/4,
3/18,4/22) for 1.5 hours (10 weeks)
Voice, harp, lute, recorder, vielle/violin/viola
This course will explore Medieval images of spring through songs of the trouveres and Parisian motets with a special emphasis on music that reveals influences of popular traditions such as roundchansons and caroles. We will also look at folk melodies preserved within polyphonic motets and pastoral love ballads. The course provides a variety of duos, trios, and quartets for various combinations of singers and players.
Longy Early Dance Ensemble Fee: $200/semester (12 weeks)
Course: EM020
Instructor: Pierce
Meets: TBA
Fall '07: TBA (12 meetings)
Spring '08: TBA (12 meetings)
This course is for those who want to explore aspects of dance from earlier periods, including steps and their relation to music, spatial patterns, notation reading and reconstruction, and preparation for performance. The class will be divided into groups according to ability and interest. For example, one group may explore late Renaissance Italian dance repertoire while another works on French Baroque dance technique. Meeting times will be arranged.
Students are encouraged to contact the instructor prior to registration to coordinate schedule and ensure appropriate placement.
Private Lessons In addition to intermediate and advanced level jazz instrumental study, we offer a faculty with expertise in teaching improvisation to students whose primary musical experience has been with classical music. Lessons are arranged individually to meet each student's needs. Local performers/teachers who offer instruction include Stan Strickland, David Zox, Dave Bryant, Peter Cassino, and others.
Short course! Exploring Music Through Improvisation Fee: $170/semester
Course: MA010
Instructor: Cassino/Faculty
Meets: Tuesdays, 7:00-9:00 PM
Fall '07: Oct. 9-Oct. 30 (4 meetings)
Spring '08: Feb. 19-Mar. 11 (4 meetings)
The art of improvisation predates written music. Historically, improvisation was an essential musical skill, and renowned musicians such as Mozart and Beethoven were prolific improvisers. Today, improvisation is practiced in only a few musical disciplines: early music, Dalcroze eurhythmics, some Western classical music, and jazz. In this course, participants will learn about and practice improvisation through these four disciplines. Through the unique perspective of improvisation, participants will gain new insight into the same concepts taught in music theory, composition, and applied lessons.
Blues Piano Workshop Fee: $ 50/workshop
Course: MA055
Instructor: Maxwell
Meets: Sundays, 4:00-6:00 PM
Fall '07: TBA
Spring '08: TBA
David Maxwell, former collaborator with Freddie King and James Cotton, explores basic and more advanced blues piano styles with the view toward helping students become effective improvisers as soloists and accompanists. Class participation is voluntary. Other instrumentalists welcome.
Small Jazz Ensembles Fee: $405/semester
Course: MA002
Instructor: Faculty
Meets: by arrangement (10 hours)
The Modern American Music Department offers several types of small ensembles. Ensembles are open by audition and are formed according to instrumental category and each participant's ability. To request an application and audition time, please contact Denise Carter, Administrative Assistant, at or call 617.876.0956 x650.
An Introductory Talk about the Feldenkrais Method ® and Bones for Life ® Fee: none
Instructor: Cheever
Meets: Mondays, 6:00-7:30 PM
Fall '07: Sept. 10
Spring'08: Jan. 21
A free basic introduction for anyone interested in the Feldenkrais Method ® or Bones for Life ® and its benefits to performing musicians. Advance registration required. Students interested in the Alexander Technique or Feldenkrais Method ® may find the following courses of interest
MB401: Alexander Technique
MB411: Introduction to the Feldenkrais Method ®
MB412: Intermediate Feldenkrais ®
MB421: Alexander and Feldenkrais ® in Conjunction
MB422: Moving and Freeing the Voice: A New Integration
An Introductory Talk about the Alexander Technique Fee: none
Instructor: Bennes
Meets: Mondays, 7:30-9:00 PM
Fall '07: Sept. 10
Spring '08: Jan. 21
A free basic introduction for anyone interested in the Alexander Technique and its benefits for vocal and instrumental performance. Advance registration required.
Short course! Bones for Life ® Fee: $175
Course: MB005
Instructor: Cheever
Meets: Sundays, 2:00-4:00 PM
Fall '07: Oct. 28, Nov. 4, 11 (3 meetings)
An introduction to this bone-strengthening and alignment program inspired by the Feldenkrais Method ® and presented at the NASA space program. Students will learn easy movements of impact to send force proportionally through a well-aligned skeleton for bone strengthening, improved circulation, better posture, coordination, and enhanced vitality in singing, playing, and performing. Open to musicians and nonmusicians.
Beginning Piano Class Fee: $295/semester
Course: PI001
Instructor: Hutchins
Meets: Wednesdays, 7:00-8:00 PM
Fall '07: Sept. 19-Dec. 12 (12 meetings)
Spring '08: Jan. 23-Apr. 23 (12 meetings)
An introduction to the keyboard, hand position, musical notation, and basic principles of piano playing. Thirty minutes of daily practice are recommended. Class is limited to four. Additional sections may be arranged.
Intermediate Piano Class Fee: $295/semester
Course: PI010
Instructor: Denton
Meets: Thursdays, 7:00-8:00 PM
Fall '07: Sept. 20-Dec. 13 (12 meetings)
Spring '08: Jan. 31-Apr. 24 (12 meetings)
A continuation of Beginning Piano Class, in which students will continue to develop their keyboard and music reading skills. This class is designed
Lisa Lederer, Director Adults may begin their study of violin, viola, or cello according to the principles developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. Students will learn at their own pace in a supportive environment. Study will begin with songs learned by ear and progress to reading music as the student becomes more familiar with the instrument. In addition to private lessons, a weekly group class gives students the opportunity to bring their music to performance level through review and introduces them to note-reading, ensemble and solo playing. For further information about the program and about teacher placement, please contact Lisa Lederer at 617.876.0956 x650 or .
Note: In the event that there is insufficient enrollment of students of the same level for certain group classes, students will have the option to take Suzuki lessons only or participate in Preparatory Studies Suzuki classes. Longy's Suzuki teachers are trained and registered with the Suzuki Association of the Americas.
Beginning Voice Class Fee: $375/semester
Course: VO010
Instructor: Anker
Meets: Thursdays, 6:00-7:30 PM
Fall '07: Starts Sept. 20 (12 meetings)
Spring '08: Starts Jan. 24 (12 meetings)
If you wish to learn vocal skills from the ground up, this class is for you. Learn breathing, posture, and the techniques for an effective warm-up. As a group, we will sing a wide range of songs, from folk, pop, and show tunes to simple classical songs. Each student will progress to sing solo songs of his/her own choosing. Learn how to practice and improve in a fun way! Prerequisite: ability to read music or concurrent enrollment in How to Read Music (Course #TH001; see p. 12). Students who register concurrently in the Beginning Voice Class and How to Read Music will receive a 25% discount on How to Read Music. Enrollment limited to 12.
Intermediate Voice Class Fee: $375/semester
Course: VO011
Instructor: Anker
Meets: Thursdays, 7:30-9:00 PM
Fall '07: Starts Sept. 20 (12 meetings)
Spring '08: Starts Jan. 24 (12 meetings)
Improve your vocal technique while exploring a variety of repertoire. Students gain confidence as they learn how to practice, expand their expressive range, perform with less nervousness, and keep their voices healthy. In addition to group warm-ups, songs will be studied in class, including classical and non-classical songs (show tunes, folk songs, jazz standards). Individual students bring their own solo selections for coaching. Prerequisite: some vocal experience (Beginning Voice Class, chorus membership, previous music lessons) and the ability to read music (not necessarily sight-read). Enrollment limited to 12.
Advanced Voice Class: Art Song in German and English Fee: $375/semester
Course: VO012
Instructor: Anker
Meets: Wednesdays, 6:30-8:00 PM
Spring '08: Starts Jan. 23 (12 meetings)
Continue your vocal study as you focus on bringing language and phrasing alive in your performances. We will learn to pronounce German (and English) clearly and work with translations, dramatic presentation, and subtexts to bring the songs to a high level. Mahler, Brahms, Robert and Clara Schumann, and Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn will be among the German composers represented. English language songs by both British and American composers will be included. There will be performance opportunities for motivated students.
Short Course for Singers! Vocal Performance Workshop Series Fee: $165/semester
Course: VO064
Instructor: Faculty
Meets: Sundays, 2:00-4:00 PM
Fall '07: Oct. 14, Nov. 11, Dec. 9 (3 meetings)
Spring '08: Feb. 3, Mar. 2, Apr. 20 (3 meetings)
This series of three workshops is offered to singers enrolled in private lessons or voice classes who would like to hone their performance presentation skills in a class led by a member of Longy's faculty. Bring in your recital, audition piece, church solo, or opera aria and get a performance coaching (pianist provided). The classes will be offered three times during the semester. The first two classes will target the more prepared solo singer. The last class will be directed toward the beginning soloist. Class size is limited, so register early!
Short Course for Singers! Vocal Improvisation A: The American Songbook and A Cappella Introduction Fee: $175
Course: VO025A
Instructor: Anker
Meets: Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00 PM
Fall '07: Starts Oct. 3 (4 meetings)
Explore ways of making music with others in this four-week introductory course. Students will sing together and alone, a cappella and with accompaniment, using rhythm, language, and melody to create, embellish, and have fun. There will be tastes of scat singing, a cappella group improvisations, and ways to practice all music creatively. Prerequisite: some vocal background. Enrollment limited to 15.
Vocal Improvisation B: Ornamenting Baroque Arias Fee: $175
Course: VO025B
Instructor: Anker
Meets: Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00 PM
Fall '07: Starts November 7 (4 meetings)
Learn to play with your Handel (and other Baroque) arias more stylishly in this four-week course. We will focus on commonly used graces and proceed to more complex ornaments. All students will sing material that is appropriate to their technical level and learn to practice creatively and what to listen for in others' performances. Prerequisite: music reading skills (not necessarily sight-reading). Limited to 12.
One Day Seminar! Healthy Singing for Choristers Fee: $50
Course: VO001
Instructor: Anker
Meets: Sunday, 2:00-4:30 PM
Fall '07: Nov. 4
Does your voice tire during concert weeks? Do you wish you had more strategies for singing vibrantly and with your best tone? This seminar for choristers, choral conductors and other singers will give you exercises and tips for good vocal health. We will sing together, talk about issues of vocal fatigue and overuse with regard to performance weeks, and strategize about choices one can make in rehearsal. Supplementary materials will be provided our singing and talking together.
One Day Seminar! Creativity in the Practice Room Fee: $50
COURSE: VO002
Instructor: Anker
Meets: Sunday 2:00-4:30 PM
Spring '08: Mar. 2
Obtain faster results in a more enjoyable practice session. Using short-term goals and exercises, you can shake off the doldrums of stale practice habits and revitalize your lessons and performances. You will also learn to reduce nervousness and performance anxiety. Handouts will be provided. You are invited to bring a piece you are working on, and there will also be time for us to work on something together.
