Programs of Study
Below is a list of the programs of study offered at the Greater Richmond School of Music. Click on a link for more information.
Private Lessons (ages 3-adult)
Beginning Group Piano Classes (ages 3-adult)
Beginning Group Guitar Classes (ages 8-adult)
Suzuki Violin (ages 3-adult)
Class Voice (ages 8-12)
Kindermusik (ages 12 months-4 years)
Survey of Instruments (ages 2-5)
Class Recorder (an intro to woodwinds) (ages 6-9)
Music Theory I and II (ages high school-adult)
Music Appreciation (ages high school-adult)
Private Lessons (ages 3-adult)
Private lessons provide focused, one-on-one instruction with a master teacher and are available in the following areas of study: Piano, Voice, Violin, Cello, Guitar, Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Horn, Trombone, Tuba, and Percussion. Learn more about our Private Lessons.
Beginning Group Piano Classes (ages 3-adult)
The Greater Richmond School of Music group piano classes are designed to start beginners of any age in a group setting for two years (or four terms). After these important four terms, the student is ready to 'graduate' into private piano lessons. Classes will focus on incorporating good piano keyboard technique along with listening skills, rhythm, relative pitch through singing, consistent practice routines, movement, theory, and history. Emphasis is placed on good habits from the start. Learn more about our Beginning Group Piano Classes.
Beginning Group Guitar Classes (ages 8-adult)
Group guitar classes are for beginning guitar students and teach the fundamentals of guitar playing. Students will learn proper left/right hand techniques, rhythm, note reading, chord reading, improvisation, and tuning. Studying in a group setting, students will also have the benefit of playing as an ensemble. Learn more about our Beginning Group Guitar Classes.
Suzuki Violin (ages 3-adult)
The Suzuki Violin Program at the Greater Richmond School of Music follows the approach of the Japanese violinist, philosopher, and educator Shinichi Suzuki who understood that talent is not inborn, but can be developed in the right environment. At the heart of the Suzuki philosophy is the belief that children learn music in exactly the same manner in which they absorb their native language - through constant immersion and repetition in the home environment. The Suzuki Violin Program involves both private lessons and group classes. Learn more about our Suzuki Violin program.
Class Voice - for beginning singers (ages 8-12)
In this course, students will learn the basics of healthy vocal production and performance in a fun and encouraging environment. In order to get the most out of this class, we recommend having a basic understanding of music theory and/or some prior musical instruction.
Kindermusik (ages 12 months-4 years)
Kindermusik is a music and movement program for children of all ages. You and your child will enjoy musical activities specifically designed to stimulate early childhood development and strengthen neural pathways in your child's mind. This Kindermusik class is specially designed for children ages 1 through 4 years of age. With an accompanying caregiver, children will enjoy singing, moving, dancing, listening, playing instruments, reading stories, and so much more! Home materials that include 2 CDs, 2 storybooks, a family activity book, instrument, and cute carry bag allow you to continue the learning at home throughout the week! We may call it learning… but kids call it FUN! **Special offer: Sign up with a friend and you will BOTH receive a free Kindermusik CD! **
A Survey of Instruments (ages 2-5)
In this class preschoolers have the opportunity to hear and play instruments up close and personal! This is a short four week class introducing preschoolers to the families of instruments (string, woodwind, brass, percussion) as well as voice. If your child is thinking about studying music in the future, this a great opportunity to get acquainted with the various instruments that are available.
Class Recorder – An Introduction to Woodwinds (ages 6-9)
If your young one is thinking about studying the flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, or saxophone in the future, this class is a wonderful opportunity to get a head start. Class Recorder is a great introduction to woodwind playing within a positive, supportive environment taught by woodwind musicians from the Richmond Symphony. Classes will focus on tone production, proper technique, rhythm, and note reading. No experience is necessary.
Music Theory I and II (ages high school-adult)
The music theory classes teach the nuts and bolts of tonal music. These are great classes for those going into college level music or for those who want to know more about the 'how' and 'why' of music composition. Music Theory I begins with basic musical concepts like intervals, scales, and basic chords. Music Theory II moves into more complex chords, chord progression/function, and the class ends with a music composition project. Music Theory I is a prerequisite of Music Theory II. All materials are included in tuition.
Music Appreciation (ages high school-adult)
Have you ever wanted to know more about music? How does it work? Why is some music more 'serious' than other music? How is music associated with dance, religion, and patriotism? In this class, students will learn about various musical styles through a general history of music. The class will feature various styles, ensembles, and composers. The class will contain two field trips to experience live musical performances. Basic music theory will also be covered. Come learn about and appreciate the love many of us have with music.
