This course is designed as the Collective’s entry-level course of study, and focuses on developing the rudimentary technical and musicianship skills required for further study, as well as an introduction to the rhythm section and the four foundation styles of Rock, Jazz, Afro-Cuban, and Brazilian. Students are assigned an “anchor” teacher to help guide them through the course work.

This course meets on Tuesday & Thursday evenings from 6-10.

Course descriptions

Quarter A

Reading Proficiency Program (8 weeks, plus exam)
The Collective Reading Proficiency Program consists of a series of progressive courses on levels from 1 to 5. Students learn sight-reading skills and the ability to interpret music from a wide variety of sources and formats.

Music Theory (Non Drum Students) (8 weeks, plus exam)
This class introduces the basic theoretical concepts and skill sets required for every well trained musician. Course work covers rhythm and pitch notation, scales, and key signatures.

Rudimental Drumming 1 (Drummers only) (8 weeks, plus exam)
Students are introduced to the study of rudimental drumming as a foundation for a solid drumming technique.

Style Prep Class 1 (8 weeks, plus exam)
Students work with an instructor on their instrument to develop the conceptual framework and application of applied techniques to perform in a rhythm section setting in the designated contemporary root styles of Rock and Jazz. Each week’s class is dedicated to a particular style.

Style Prep Rhythm Section (8 weeks, plus exam)
This class gives the student the opportunity to apply the work done in the style preparation and student rehearsal classes in an actual rhythm section setting, playing with professional musicians.

Weekly Elective Private Lessons (8 weeks)
Students may study with an individual instructor or series of instructors of their choice.

Quarter B

Reading Proficiency Program
The Collective Reading Proficiency Program consists of a series of progressive courses on levels from 1 to 5. Students learn sight-reading skills and the ability to interpret music from a wide variety of sources and formats.

Music Theory (Non Drum Students)
This class continues theoretical concepts and skill sets required for every well trained musician. Course work covers rhythm and pitch notation, scales, and key signatures.

or

Rudimental Drumming (Drummers only)
Students continue to study rudimental drumming with a focus on application to the rhythm section and the percussion ensemble.

Style Prep 2
Students work with an instructor on their instrument to develop the conceptual framework and application of applied techniques to perform in the designated ethnic root styles of Brazilian and Afro-Cuban. Each week’s class is dedicated to a particular style or groove.

Style Prep Rhythm Section
This class gives the student the opportunity to apply the work done in the style preparation and student rehearsal classes in an actual rhythm section setting, playing with professional musicians.

Weekly elective private lessons (8 weeks)
Students may study with the individual instructor or series of instructors of their choice.