Woodwinds and Brass Department
Instruments of the Wind and Brass family can be found on stage with the symphony orchestra, marching in a parade on the 4th of July, swinging on the bandstand and making music in schools everyday. The possibilities are endless not the least of which is a lifetime of joyful music making. When you study a wind instrument you develop team skills, cooperative sensibilities and an appetite for excellence. Whether you are 9 or 89 you can begin and continue your wind instrument studies at the Conservatory.
What we offer:
- Highly accomplished faculty, most with advanced degrees, who can be seen performing professionally throughout the Upper Midwest
- Extensive experience instructing beginners in the fundamentals of correct technique, note reading and basic theory as well as instructing advanced students in interpretive strategies, stylistic awareness and the historical perspective necessary for artist level performance
- Performance practice in many styles, from classical to jazz, salsa and contemporary
- Chamber music and collaborative performance experiences
- Solo and ensemble competition coaching as well as audition preparation
- Performance opportunities in the acoustically superb and beautiful Helen Bader Recital Hall
- The Dorothea Music Library with over 50,000 CDs and LPs, DVD scores and books
- Free admission to all Conservatory produced performances and master classes
- Free use of practice rooms (based on availability)
- Student discounts for recording services
- Scholarships and financial aid
- Summer Middle School Band camp
Faculty and Locations:
Eric Jacobson* - Dept. Chair | Trumpet | Prospect/Wilson
Max Day | Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba | Prospect/Wilson/Audubon Court
Tuition Rates for Individual Instruction:
Range from $30-$32 for a thirty minute lesson; $45-$47.50 for a forty five minute lesson; or $60-$64 for a sixty minute lesson.
Path of Learning
Individual Instruction
Enjoy learning a string instrument in a musical environment designed to meet the needs of students of various ages, levels and styles
Group Classes
Group study allows students to learn in a motivational, supportive, and fun setting.
Children
- Individual Instruction
- Make Music with Me
- Theory is Fun
- Music & Musicians
Teens and Adults
- Individual Instruction
- Chamber Ensembles
- Wind Ensemble
- Old World Ensemble
- Trumpet Choir
- Clarinet Choir
- Trombone Choir
- Woodwind Ense
- Brass Ensemble
- Improvisation hyperlink to theory page
- Conducting hyperlink to theory page
- Music Theory 1 followed by Music Theory 2
- Music Theory at the Keyboard
- Aural Skills
- Middle School Band Camp