Jazz Lessons
See Faculty Roster for Jazz Studies Instructors
times individually scheduled
varying ages by instrument (check Individual Instruction minimum ages)
beginning through advanced
The Jazz Studies Program is designed to provide aspiring jazz students standard performance practice and exposure to repertoire through improvisation and exploration of jazz styles in individual lessons. Students are encouraged to participate in Hochstein’s jazz ensembles. Participation in the Jazz Studies Program is open to the following instruments: piano, acoustic and electric bass, drum set, electric guitar, woodwinds, and brass.
Fees for Jazz lessons: $20 registration fee; $33* per 30-minute lesson; $47* per 45-minute lesson; $59* per 60-minute lesson. Schedules and fees are arranged by consultation with the Dean’s Office. (Fees are as of Fall 2023.)
Songwriting
Dave Chisholm, Instructor
times individually scheduled
Ages 12-adult, beginner through advanced
Everybody loves a good song, whether it's a rocking and riffy Led Zeppelin song, a catchy Beatles tune, or a fun and poppy Taylor Swift number. But what goes into this process? Dave Chisholm, songwriter of the Rochester rock band Talking Under Water, explores the process of songwriting with students. Topics in the individual sessions include developing lyrics, chord progressions, exploring melodic shape, and demoing your creation on GarageBand.
Fees for Songwriting: $20 registration fee; $33* per 30-minute lesson; $47* per 45-minute lesson; $59* per 60-minute lesson. Schedules and fees are arranged by consultation with the Dean’s Office. (Fees are as of Fall 2023.)
Drum Set!
Richard Felice or Emma Gierszal, Instructor
times individually scheduled
Ages 9-adult, beginner through advanced
Explore the wonderful world of drum set with master drummer Richard Felice! Learn basic coordination, rudiments, note-reading, and work on snare-drum and drum set exercises and drills to put you on the road to becoming a complete drummer. Develop mastery of rock, Latin, jazz improvisation styles, and more!
Fees for Drum Set: $20 registration fee; $33* per 30-minute lesson; $47* per 45-minute lesson; $59* per 60-minute lesson. Schedules and fees are arranged by consultation with the Dean’s Office. (Fees are as of Fall 2023.)
Indie Study
Dave Chisholm, Instructor
times individually scheduled
Ages 12-adult
What if you could create your own class at Hochstein focused on musical topics that interest you the most? Want to delve into music theory and basic fundamentals on your own? Want to record and mix your own projects using GarageBand? Interested in using mobile applications (useful iPad or iPhone apps) for recording, music creation, and live performance? Want to explore soundscape design, or video editing? Now is your chance through Independent Study with Dave Chisholm – the possibilities are endless!
Fees for Indy Study: $20 registration fee; $33* per 30-minute lesson; $47* per 45-minute lesson; $59* per 60-minute lesson. Schedules and fees are arranged by consultation with the Dean’s Office. (Fees are as of Fall 2023.)
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