Bethesda Students from teh International School of Music performing at Carnegie Hall

Ensembles and Bands

Participation in ensemble groups is an enriching part of every young musician’s development. Participation in these groups nurtures musicianship and reinforces reading and listening skills. Students also develop awareness of blending and balance, and the ability to listen to one’s own music and music of other students at the same time. Students in our Ensembles & Bands program study repertoire from the works of Baroque through Contemporary composers in addition to popular styles. At rehearsals we stress intonation, communication, rhythmic security and cooperation. Frequent ensemble performances at ISM and beyond provide students an opportunity to bond with their fellow performers while having fun.

Please note: Formation of chamber groups (trios, quartets, and larger groups) is dependent on students’ playing ability, compatibility, and instrumentation.

Benefits

Cooperative approach provides a supportive social environment for musical discovery.

Players share significant responsibility in shaping the final performance.
Students learn to listen and adjust to each other as they play.

Incentive to practice comes not just from a parent or a teacher, but from a sense of responsibility to the group.
Inspires gifted players and emboldens less confident students.

Fkute Choir Classes at International School of Music in Bethesda , Rockville and Potomac

Intermezzo Flute Choir

For current availability, email us at frontdesk@ismw.org

Flute choir offers flute students the opportunity to expand their musical experiences and improve technical and interpretative skills in a group setting. Repertoire, ranging from duets to full flute choir, includes a wide variety of eras and styles and is suited to the proficiency and level of the participants. Students develop ensemble technique, intonation, blend, and balance, and become acquainted with standard chamber music repertoire. This ensemble provides a good learning experience, lots of fun, and numerous performance opportunities.

Bethesda Students Performing in a Music Ensemble at International School of Music in Bethesda

International Fiddlers

For current availability, email us at frontdesk@ismw.org

Our fiddle band is a great opportunity for children to explore and learn a wide range of traditional fiddling styles—bluegrass, American old-time, Appalachian, Irish, Scottish, Cajun, Balkan, Scandinavian, jazz, swing, and blues—through tunes, songs, dance. With a wonderfully supportive atmosphere and superb faculty, our fiddle class has introduced our students to the lively and delightful fiddle repertoire and amazing performance opportunities including Carnegie Hall. We welcome young violin students and fiddlers, ages 7 to 15, with at least one year of playing experience. No previous fiddling is required.

Washington DC and Rockville students receiving guitar instruction at International School of Music

Guitar Ensemble

For current availability, email us at frontdesk@ismw.org

This introductory class will help guitarists develop a stronger sense of rhythm, better note-reading and listening skills, and will provide the opportunity for students to enjoy playing music with other guitarists. Students will learn how to communicate and share musical ideas while cooperating in order to coordinate musical performances. Repertoire will include works from Renaissance to Contemporary composers written and arranged for the guitar. At least 1 year of private lessons and the ability to read music is required.

Music Classes and Bands at International School of Music in Bethesda

ISM Rock Band

For current availability, email us at frontdesk@ismw.org

For intermediate to advanced teens and adults. This is both a class and a performing ensemble exploring classic and contemporary approaches to rock music, ranging from Buddy Holly to U2 to Metallica. Both chart reading, songwriting, and improvisational techniques will be explored. All instrumentalists and vocalists are welcome.

Children performing at International School of Music recital in PotomacChamber Ensemble

For current availability, email us at frontdesk@ismw.org

Join fellow instrumentalists for a semester of stimulating instruction and enriching ensemble experience. Open to string, woodwind, and piano students. Ensemble meets once a week for coaching sessions with ISM faculty member. This course provides an opportunity for artistic and personal growth in a friendly, supportive atmosphere where participants can improve their skills and have a chance to perform in public.

Brass Ensemble Rehearsing at International School of Music

Create Your Own Group Class or Band

For current availability, email us at frontdesk@ismw.org

ISM will open a class for you and up to four of your friends in any combination of instruments and/or voice. To arrange your customized ensemble today, simply organize your group and decide which days and times are most convenient for you. After a brief placement interview, your group will be assigned one of our expert teaching artists. All students need to supply their own instruments.

It's easy to take the next step: Call us at 301-365-5888 and start Your Musical Journey Today!

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