Lessons, Classes & Ensembles
For Students of All Ages and Skill LevelsOur Community Music School (CMS) offers private lessons, group classes, 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.
Spring 2023 Priority Registration for private lessons & group classes is open now until January 4, 2023.
Spring 2023 Open Registration for private lessons & group classes opens January 5, 2023.
Click here to view our CMS Fall 2022-23 Recital Schedule.
Read the 2022-2023 Course Catalog here
Private Lessons
Early Childhood Music
Instrument Friends
Theory, Composition & Songwriting
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.
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.
Flute Ensemble
Flute ensemble will improve students’ sight reading, sound production and self expression. Students work on intermediate flute repertoire including classical, pop and jazz selections, and are encouraged to practice their ensemble repertoire outside of class.
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.
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.
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 Summer Strings, Guitar & Piano Camp
Join us for a great week of summer music-making! This full-day drop-off camp for piano, violin, viola, cello, guitar and bass students includes a daily semi-private lesson plus an ensemble class led by an expert instructor!
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.
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.
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.
COMPOSERS CLUB
For the budding songwriter and future composer, this class will ignite students’ imaginations and provide a solid foundation in music theory.
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 Winds, Brass & Percussion Camp
For woodwinds, brass and percussion students who want to keep the music going this summer.
PIANO EXPLORERS SUMMER CAMP
Based on our popular Piano Friends classes, this camp offers a fun, interactive approach to learning piano in small groups. Our engaging curriculum will have students reading and playing music in no time.
BKCM Summer Strings, Guitar & Piano Camp
Join us for a great week of summer music-making! This full-day drop-off camp for piano, violin, viola, cello, guitar and bass students includes a daily semi-private lesson plus an ensemble class led by an expert instructor!
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.
Flute Ensemble
Flute ensemble will improve students’ sight reading, sound production and self expression. Students work on intermediate flute repertoire including classical, pop and jazz selections, and are encouraged to practice their ensemble repertoire outside of class.
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.
COMPOSERS CLUB
For the budding songwriter and future composer, this class will ignite students’ imaginations and provide a solid foundation in music theory.
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.
BKCM Summer Strings, Guitar & Piano Camp
Join us for a great week of summer music-making! This full-day drop-off camp for piano, violin, viola, cello, guitar and bass students includes a daily semi-private lesson plus an ensemble class led by an expert instructor!
BKCM 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.
BROOKLYN HARMONICS VOCAL CAMP
This camp offers young singers an opportunity to advance their singing technique while empowering them with arranging and recording skills. They’ll learn healthy singing technique, vocal arranging skills and performance preparation as both an ensemble singer and soloist.
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.
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 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.
Flute Ensemble
Flute ensemble will improve students’ sight reading, sound production and self expression. Students work on intermediate flute repertoire including classical, pop and jazz selections, and are encouraged to practice their ensemble repertoire outside of class.
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.
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.
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.