Lessons, Classes & Ensembles

Our Community Music School (CMS) offers group classes, private lessons, ensembles and workshops for people of all ages, levels and backgrounds. We have offerings in every major instrument, and our world-class faculty members teach everyone from first-time learners to lifelong musicians. 

The CMS Core Values are community, joy, creativity, quality and perseverance.

Click here to view our CMS Spring 2022 Recital Schedule.

Read the 2022-2023 Course Catalog here

Private Lessons

Early Childhood Music

Instrument Friends

Theory & Composition

Instrument Ensembles

Community Ensembles

Vocal Instruction & Ensembles

Jazz & Improvisation

Suzuki Method

Music Therapy

Kids

Teens

Adults

 

Adaptive Music Lessons

Children and adults who show an interest in learning to play an instrument, but who need extra support, can benefit from studying with a music educator with a degree in music therapy.

 

Private Lessons

Private lessons are a core learning experience at BKCM and are available for every major instrument including voice. Drawing from a diverse faculty of world-class musicians and educators, we match each student to a teacher whose approach and experience fit their learning style.

 

Instrument Adventures

A popular offering at BKCM, students discover music from various parts of the world and explore a range of instruments from the wind, brass, string and percussion families. Students learn how instruments work through hands-on demonstrations, instrument-building activities and guest musicians.

 

Sing & Play

Sing and Play will have you bouncing and singing with your little one all day long. Our repertoire promotes motor skill development, singing, listening and playing small percussion instruments.

 

Music Adventures

Children experience music as a group through stories, movement and songs from different cultures. They are introduced to tuned and non-pitched instruments, sing songs and form kinesthetic connections while learning rhythms, patterns, shapes and textures.

 

SECE (Suzuki Early Childhood Education)

Bond with your little one through music! A gateway to our world-class Suzuki program, children and parents learn and interact with other families through music, gently developing social-emotional skills, vocabulary, motor, number, pitch, singing, and listening skills.

 

Guitar Friends

Ready to learn guitar? Students learn proper guitar technique such as how to play chords, strum, and pick.

 

Piano Friends

A fun introduction to the piano, students develop proper piano technique, learn how to read music, create group compositions and perform full ensemble pieces.

 

Violin Friends

Students begin their journey with the violin in a cheerful group setting which integrates elements of improvisation and composition as well as essential musicianship skills such as sight reading, ear training and singing.

 

Music Notation, Ear Training and Theory

Our theory and composition classes are more than just a supplement to private lessons. Leveled by age and experience, our beginner programs will help students advance in their private lessons while building essential musicianship skills and developing their creativity in a fun, low-pressure group setting.

 

COMPOSERS CLUB

For the budding songwriter and future composer, this class will ignite students’ imaginations and provide a solid foundation in music theory.

 

Intro to Music Theory for Adults

This class is for adults who are interested in understanding the fundamentals of music and covers building blocks such as form, harmony, melody and rhythm. No prior training in music is required for this class, which will bring a fresh perspective to the music you listen to everyday.

 

Intermediate Theory

Designed for older teen and adult students who have some prior experience with music theory. This class is an excellent supplement to private lessons on any instrument.

 

SONGWRITING FOR KIDS

Students will work collaboratively to co-compose songs in class as well as develop their own material in this fun introduction to songwriting.

 

Chamber Music

Youth, teens and adults who have had at least three years experience on the piano, strings, woodwinds, brass or voice are invited to join one of our chamber ensembles. Each ensemble is supported by a professional coach and rehearses weekly, playing repertoire that includes a variety of genres and styles and are tailored to participants’ interest and skill levels.

 

Brooklyn Conservatory Community Orchestra (BCCO)

Experience the joys of performing in a full orchestra! Open by audition to adult orchestral musicians from intermediate to advanced levels, the BCCO performs the great masterpieces of the orchestral repertoire to contemporary works by living composers.

 

Piano Ensemble

Piano Ensemble is a supportive, convivial setting for beginner pianists interested in developing musicianship, enhancing listening skills and deepening the musician-instrument connection.

 

String Ensemble

In addition to private lessons, playing in an ensemble with other strings is essential for students to focus on sound production, sight-reading, tuning, rhythm and setup of the instrument. Young players develop their bow technique, expression and dynamics in a fun group experience.

 

Guitar Ensemble

Guitar ensemble is an opportunity for young guitarists with at least two years of private lesson experience who wish to take their guitar playing to the next level. This ensemble will improve student’s sight reading, chord knowledge and build right hand and left hand technique.

 

Brass Ensemble

Brass ensemble is for young students with at least two years of private lessons. Playing in an ensemble is essential for any brass musician where they can learn important elements such as how to play in tune, blend and support their sound and balance within a section. Students work on intermediate brass repertoire including classical, pop and jazz selections.

 

BKCM String Ensembles

Our Suzuki program offers two String Ensembles which are open by audition to any students who play violin, viola, cello or bass. Led by Suzuki instructors, the two ensembles are a wonderful combination of Suzuki, Community Music School (CMS) and non-BKCM string students.

 

Brooklyn Conservatory Chorale (BCC)

This dynamic 40+ member mixed choir performs a rich variety of musical styles, both a cappella and with accompaniment from the Renaissance to today.

 

Big Bad Brass Band

Calling all brass, winds and percussion players who want to take their playing to the next level and join us in a rockin’ good time. This group plays and performs brass band music from all corners of the globe.

 

BKCM Klezmer Ensemble

This is a great opportunity for those who might be interested in trying a new genre and who haven’t played klezmer music before! This session is geared toward advanced beginner / intermediate players ages 16+ with 2+ years of experience.

 

Bluegrass Jam

Vocalists and string, guitar and mandolin players are invited to experience the historic American music of bluegrass. Taught by expert bluegrass musicians, in a fun jam-style approach, students experience the joys of leading, improvising and accompanying traditional folk songs and old-time music.

 

Brooklyn Harmonics Teens

Co-Directors Jeff Klitz and Christine Cornell lead twelve dedicated teen singers for the select vocal performance ensemble Brooklyn Harmonics Teens.

 

Groove Lab

Groove Lab offers students a fun, interactive deep dive into the study of making electronic beats, rhythms and grooves.

 

GLOBAL BEATS

Through call and response, language, repetition and layers, students will connect with the rich history and culture of various musical drumming traditions and learn basic hand drumming and percussion techniques.

 

MUSIC OF INDIA

Immerse yourself in the expansive ocean of raga music (South Asian classical music). Traditional music of North and South India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal, including a myriad of small regional folk styles, will be explored with depth and focus.

 

INTRO TO SONGWRITING

One fleeting idea can spark a whole song. Explore that spark and collaborate with a community of other songwriters in this creative setting.

 

BROOKLYN HARMONICS TWEENS

Young students bring their voices together in this exciting new group! Brooklyn Harmonics Tweens is a preparatory group for Brooklyn Harmonics Teens. It’s a happy approach to singing with other 9- to 13-year-olds

 

Brooklyn Harmonics Twenty+

Brooklyn Harmonics Twenty+ sing arrangements of pop tunes (and some originals) written specifically for the group, which are featured in concerts that will also showcase Brooklyn Harmonics Teens and Tweens. Bring your singing joy to the adults of the Brooklyn Harmonics continuum!

 

BKCM BLUES BAND (12 & Up)

Students will learn a variety of popular blues forms, scales, lyrics and performance styles connected to the genre. Students will also try their hand at performing, writing and singing the blues. All instruments and voices are welcome.

 

Brooklyn Conservatory Chorale (BCC)

This dynamic 40+ member mixed choir performs a rich variety of musical styles, both a cappella and with accompaniment from the Renaissance to today.

 

Brooklyn Harmonics Teens

Co-Directors Jeff Klitz and Christine Cornell lead twelve dedicated teen singers for the select vocal performance ensemble Brooklyn Harmonics Teens.

 

BROOKLYN HARMONICS TWEENS

Young students bring their voices together in this exciting new group! Brooklyn Harmonics Tweens is a preparatory group for Brooklyn Harmonics Teens. It’s a happy approach to singing with other 9- to 13-year-olds

 

Brooklyn Harmonics Twenty+

Brooklyn Harmonics Twenty+ sing arrangements of pop tunes (and some originals) written specifically for the group, which are featured in concerts that will also showcase Brooklyn Harmonics Teens and Tweens. Bring your singing joy to the adults of the Brooklyn Harmonics continuum!

 

Brooklyn Conservatory Chorale (BCC)

This dynamic 40+ member mixed choir performs a rich variety of musical styles, both a cappella and with accompaniment from the Renaissance to today.

 

Musical Theater Workshop

Young performers learn proper singing technique—including breath control, posture, and diction—while exploring classic and contemporary musical theater repertoire.

 

Intro to Singing for Adults

If you’ve never had formal training or would like to start singing again, this course is for you. Intro to Singing will help students discover vocal technique, warm-up exercises and guided meditations that bring an awareness to the body in preparation for singing.

 

Amy Winehouse Jazz Explorers (5th & 6th Grade)

Taught by accomplished women and non-binary musicians who are active in the New York City jazz community, Amy Winehouse Jazz Explorers empowers young students to grow their musicianship and confidence through improvisation and ensemble playing.

 

INTRO TO IMPROVISATION (12 & Up)

This ensemble focuses on improvisation concepts and strategies such as game pieces, graphic scores and live conduction. Students learn how to respond, lead and support each other in a collaborative improvisation practice.

 

BKCM Jazz Program (6th To 12th Grade)

The six main components of the BKCM Jazz Program are: diverse repertoire, creative improvisation, small group work, jazz theory, weekly performances, and masterclass and workshops.

 

BKCM BLUES BAND (12 & Up)

Students will learn a variety of popular blues forms, scales, lyrics and performance styles connected to the genre. Students will also try their hand at performing, writing and singing the blues. All instruments and voices are welcome.

 

Jazz Instrumental Lab (Adults)

In this weekly small group ensemble, jazz musicians at a beginner to intermediate level have the opportunity to collaborate, improvise, rehearse and develop the confidence for public performance.

 

SECE (Suzuki Early Childhood Education)

Bond with your little one through music! A gateway to our world-class Suzuki program, children and parents learn and interact with other families through music, gently developing social-emotional skills, vocabulary, motor, number, pitch, singing, and listening skills.

 

Suzuki Method

The Suzuki Method is recognized worldwide as a highly effective approach for teaching children the language of music. Generations of students have begun a lifelong journey of musical enrichment through this approach.

 

BKCM String Ensembles

Our Suzuki program offers two String Ensembles which are open by audition to any students who play violin, viola, cello or bass. Led by Suzuki instructors, the two ensembles are a wonderful combination of Suzuki, Community Music School (CMS) and non-BKCM string students.

 

Adaptive Music Lessons

Children and adults who show an interest in learning to play an instrument, but who need extra support, can benefit from studying with a music educator with a degree in music therapy.

 

On-Site Music Therapy

In Music Therapy, the developmental, emotional, psychological and social needs of children and adults are addressed through active music-making in a relationship with a music therapist.

 

Adaptive Music Lessons

Children and adults who show an interest in learning to play an instrument, but who need extra support, can benefit from studying with a music educator with a degree in music therapy.

 

Chamber Music

Youth, teens and adults who have had at least three years experience on the piano, strings, woodwinds, brass or voice are invited to join one of our chamber ensembles. Each ensemble is supported by a professional coach and rehearses weekly, playing repertoire that includes a variety of genres and styles and are tailored to participants’ interest and skill levels.

 

Guitar Friends

Ready to learn guitar? Students learn proper guitar technique such as how to play chords, strum, and pick.

 

On-Site Music Therapy

In Music Therapy, the developmental, emotional, psychological and social needs of children and adults are addressed through active music-making in a relationship with a music therapist.

 

Piano Friends

A fun introduction to the piano, students develop proper piano technique, learn how to read music, create group compositions and perform full ensemble pieces.

 

Amy Winehouse Jazz Explorers (5th & 6th Grade)

Taught by accomplished women and non-binary musicians who are active in the New York City jazz community, Amy Winehouse Jazz Explorers empowers young students to grow their musicianship and confidence through improvisation and ensemble playing.

 

Piano Ensemble

Piano Ensemble is a supportive, convivial setting for beginner pianists interested in developing musicianship, enhancing listening skills and deepening the musician-instrument connection.

 

String Ensemble

In addition to private lessons, playing in an ensemble with other strings is essential for students to focus on sound production, sight-reading, tuning, rhythm and setup of the instrument. Young players develop their bow technique, expression and dynamics in a fun group experience.

 

Guitar Ensemble

Guitar ensemble is an opportunity for young guitarists with at least two years of private lesson experience who wish to take their guitar playing to the next level. This ensemble will improve student’s sight reading, chord knowledge and build right hand and left hand technique.

 

Violin Friends

Students begin their journey with the violin in a cheerful group setting which integrates elements of improvisation and composition as well as essential musicianship skills such as sight reading, ear training and singing.

 

Private Lessons

Private lessons are a core learning experience at BKCM and are available for every major instrument including voice. Drawing from a diverse faculty of world-class musicians and educators, we match each student to a teacher whose approach and experience fit their learning style.

 

Brass Ensemble

Brass ensemble is for young students with at least two years of private lessons. Playing in an ensemble is essential for any brass musician where they can learn important elements such as how to play in tune, blend and support their sound and balance within a section. Students work on intermediate brass repertoire including classical, pop and jazz selections.

 

Suzuki Method

The Suzuki Method is recognized worldwide as a highly effective approach for teaching children the language of music. Generations of students have begun a lifelong journey of musical enrichment through this approach.

 

BROOKLYN HARMONICS TWEENS

Young students bring their voices together in this exciting new group! Brooklyn Harmonics Tweens is a preparatory group for Brooklyn Harmonics Teens. It’s a happy approach to singing with other 9- to 13-year-olds

 

BKCM String Ensembles

Our Suzuki program offers two String Ensembles which are open by audition to any students who play violin, viola, cello or bass. Led by Suzuki instructors, the two ensembles are a wonderful combination of Suzuki, Community Music School (CMS) and non-BKCM string students.

 

Musical Theater Workshop

Young performers learn proper singing technique—including breath control, posture, and diction—while exploring classic and contemporary musical theater repertoire.

 

SONGWRITING FOR KIDS

Students will work collaboratively to co-compose songs in class as well as develop their own material in this fun introduction to songwriting.

 

Adaptive Music Lessons

Children and adults who show an interest in learning to play an instrument, but who need extra support, can benefit from studying with a music educator with a degree in music therapy.

 

Chamber Music

Youth, teens and adults who have had at least three years experience on the piano, strings, woodwinds, brass or voice are invited to join one of our chamber ensembles. Each ensemble is supported by a professional coach and rehearses weekly, playing repertoire that includes a variety of genres and styles and are tailored to participants’ interest and skill levels.

 

On-Site Music Therapy

In Music Therapy, the developmental, emotional, psychological and social needs of children and adults are addressed through active music-making in a relationship with a music therapist.

 

Big Bad Brass Band

Calling all brass, winds and percussion players who want to take their playing to the next level and join us in a rockin’ good time. This group plays and performs brass band music from all corners of the globe.

 

Piano Ensemble

Piano Ensemble is a supportive, convivial setting for beginner pianists interested in developing musicianship, enhancing listening skills and deepening the musician-instrument connection.

 

String Ensemble

In addition to private lessons, playing in an ensemble with other strings is essential for students to focus on sound production, sight-reading, tuning, rhythm and setup of the instrument. Young players develop their bow technique, expression and dynamics in a fun group experience.

 

Guitar Ensemble

Guitar ensemble is an opportunity for young guitarists with at least two years of private lesson experience who wish to take their guitar playing to the next level. This ensemble will improve student’s sight reading, chord knowledge and build right hand and left hand technique.

 

BKCM Klezmer Ensemble

This is a great opportunity for those who might be interested in trying a new genre and who haven’t played klezmer music before! This session is geared toward advanced beginner / intermediate players ages 16+ with 2+ years of experience.

 

Private Lessons

Private lessons are a core learning experience at BKCM and are available for every major instrument including voice. Drawing from a diverse faculty of world-class musicians and educators, we match each student to a teacher whose approach and experience fit their learning style.

 

Brass Ensemble

Brass ensemble is for young students with at least two years of private lessons. Playing in an ensemble is essential for any brass musician where they can learn important elements such as how to play in tune, blend and support their sound and balance within a section. Students work on intermediate brass repertoire including classical, pop and jazz selections.

 

Bluegrass Jam

Vocalists and string, guitar and mandolin players are invited to experience the historic American music of bluegrass. Taught by expert bluegrass musicians, in a fun jam-style approach, students experience the joys of leading, improvising and accompanying traditional folk songs and old-time music.

 

Suzuki Method

The Suzuki Method is recognized worldwide as a highly effective approach for teaching children the language of music. Generations of students have begun a lifelong journey of musical enrichment through this approach.

 

Brooklyn Harmonics Teens

Co-Directors Jeff Klitz and Christine Cornell lead twelve dedicated teen singers for the select vocal performance ensemble Brooklyn Harmonics Teens.

 

Groove Lab

Groove Lab offers students a fun, interactive deep dive into the study of making electronic beats, rhythms and grooves.

 

Amy Winehouse Summer Jazz Camp

Heat up your jazz and improvisation skills this summer! Students of all levels and experience with jazz are welcome. Students work in small groups and masterclasses with top-notch faculty, developing skills in improvisation and jazz theory.

 

Jazz Instrumental Lab Intensive (Adults)

In this week-long, small-group ensemble, jazz musicians of all skill levels have the opportunity to collaborate, improvise, rehearse and develop the confidence for public performance.

 

Klezmer Summer Intensive (Teens & Adults)

This ensemble is open to all strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion and accordion players with two or more years of experience on their instrument. This session is geared toward advanced beginner/intermediate players.

 

GLOBAL BEATS

Through call and response, language, repetition and layers, students will connect with the rich history and culture of various musical drumming traditions and learn basic hand drumming and percussion techniques.

 

MUSIC OF INDIA

Immerse yourself in the expansive ocean of raga music (South Asian classical music). Traditional music of North and South India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal, including a myriad of small regional folk styles, will be explored with depth and focus.

 

INTRO TO SONGWRITING

One fleeting idea can spark a whole song. Explore that spark and collaborate with a community of other songwriters in this creative setting.

 

INTRO TO IMPROVISATION (12 & Up)

This ensemble focuses on improvisation concepts and strategies such as game pieces, graphic scores and live conduction. Students learn how to respond, lead and support each other in a collaborative improvisation practice.

 

BKCM String Ensembles

Our Suzuki program offers two String Ensembles which are open by audition to any students who play violin, viola, cello or bass. Led by Suzuki instructors, the two ensembles are a wonderful combination of Suzuki, Community Music School (CMS) and non-BKCM string students.

 

BKCM Jazz Program (6th To 12th Grade)

The six main components of the BKCM Jazz Program are: diverse repertoire, creative improvisation, small group work, jazz theory, weekly performances, and masterclass and workshops.

 

BKCM BLUES BAND (12 & Up)

Students will learn a variety of popular blues forms, scales, lyrics and performance styles connected to the genre. Students will also try their hand at performing, writing and singing the blues. All instruments and voices are welcome.

 

Adaptive Music Lessons

Children and adults who show an interest in learning to play an instrument, but who need extra support, can benefit from studying with a music educator with a degree in music therapy.

 

Chamber Music

Youth, teens and adults who have had at least three years experience on the piano, strings, woodwinds, brass or voice are invited to join one of our chamber ensembles. Each ensemble is supported by a professional coach and rehearses weekly, playing repertoire that includes a variety of genres and styles and are tailored to participants’ interest and skill levels.

 

Brooklyn Conservatory Community Orchestra (BCCO)

Experience the joys of performing in a full orchestra! Open by audition to adult orchestral musicians from intermediate to advanced levels, the BCCO performs the great masterpieces of the orchestral repertoire to contemporary works by living composers.

 

On-Site Music Therapy

In Music Therapy, the developmental, emotional, psychological and social needs of children and adults are addressed through active music-making in a relationship with a music therapist.

 

BKCM Klezmer Ensemble

This is a great opportunity for those who might be interested in trying a new genre and who haven’t played klezmer music before! This session is geared toward advanced beginner / intermediate players ages 16+ with 2+ years of experience.

 

Private Lessons

Private lessons are a core learning experience at BKCM and are available for every major instrument including voice. Drawing from a diverse faculty of world-class musicians and educators, we match each student to a teacher whose approach and experience fit their learning style.

 

Intro to Music Theory for Adults

This class is for adults who are interested in understanding the fundamentals of music and covers building blocks such as form, harmony, melody and rhythm. No prior training in music is required for this class, which will bring a fresh perspective to the music you listen to everyday.

 

Intermediate Theory

Designed for older teen and adult students who have some prior experience with music theory. This class is an excellent supplement to private lessons on any instrument.

 

Beginner Group Piano (Adults)

This class is open to adults who are either completely new to the piano or have had some prior experience at a beginner level. In a relaxed small group setting, students receive individual attention and helpful resources to familiarize them with the piano.

 

Beginner Group Guitar (Adults)

Almost any song can be learned with the knowledge of a few chords. Open to adults who are either completely new to the guitar or have had minimal prior experience, this relaxed small group class gives students individual attention and helpful resources to learn simple chords and melodies.

 

Klezmer Summer Intensive (Teens & Adults)

This ensemble is open to all strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion and accordion players with two or more years of experience on their instrument. This session is geared toward advanced beginner/intermediate players.

 

GLOBAL BEATS

Through call and response, language, repetition and layers, students will connect with the rich history and culture of various musical drumming traditions and learn basic hand drumming and percussion techniques.

 

MUSIC OF INDIA

Immerse yourself in the expansive ocean of raga music (South Asian classical music). Traditional music of North and South India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal, including a myriad of small regional folk styles, will be explored with depth and focus.

 

INTRO TO SONGWRITING

One fleeting idea can spark a whole song. Explore that spark and collaborate with a community of other songwriters in this creative setting.

 

Brooklyn Harmonics Twenty+

Brooklyn Harmonics Twenty+ sing arrangements of pop tunes (and some originals) written specifically for the group, which are featured in concerts that will also showcase Brooklyn Harmonics Teens and Tweens. Bring your singing joy to the adults of the Brooklyn Harmonics continuum!

 

BKCM BLUES BAND (12 & Up)

Students will learn a variety of popular blues forms, scales, lyrics and performance styles connected to the genre. Students will also try their hand at performing, writing and singing the blues. All instruments and voices are welcome.

 

Jazz Instrumental Lab (Adults)

In this weekly small group ensemble, jazz musicians at a beginner to intermediate level have the opportunity to collaborate, improvise, rehearse and develop the confidence for public performance.

 

Brooklyn Conservatory Chorale (BCC)

This dynamic 40+ member mixed choir performs a rich variety of musical styles, both a cappella and with accompaniment from the Renaissance to today.

 

Intro to Singing for Adults

If you’ve never had formal training or would like to start singing again, this course is for you. Intro to Singing will help students discover vocal technique, warm-up exercises and guided meditations that bring an awareness to the body in preparation for singing.