ENSEMBLE PROGRAMS

sampleAfter your initial period of music study, you may be thinking about exploring other programs involving your music instrument. In addition to private music lessons, the Fox River Academy has several opportunities for students to help enhance other areas of music performance. One may sign up for our Duet/Chamber Ensemble Class, which pairs students together to explore and learn duet and chamber repertoire. We also have a Community Chorus (open to individuals ages 10 and up) that meets weekly to work on various vocal works. Both of these activities do not require private lesson enrollment at the Fox River Academy. 

Several of our instructors have Performance Groups or Ensembles built directly into their curriculum (to take place of a private lesson for that week) as a way to expose students to group repertoire or performance. Some instructors have ensembles that are audition-only for students interested in studying and performing in ensembles (such as our Youth and Teen/Adult Guitar Ensembles, Piano Ensemble, and Chamber Vocal Ensemble). The Academy arranges for these groups to participate in various public performances, as well as regular recitals. 

Students have several opportunities for recital performance at the Academy. Throughout the year our students regularly perform in many community events and festivals. Several of our instructors also arrange for other instrument-specific recitals periodically over the course of the year, and may include opportunities for other types of performances (such as accompanists or chamber players). Once a year, we have a full academy Winter Recital (usually near the end of January) for all students. Over several weekends, students may sign out a recital time that is convenient for their schedule. Sometimes teachers designate a specific date and time for their students to participate. The Academy arranges for an outside location (to accommodate the large amount of students, their friends and family) for these performances.

ENSEMBLE CLASSES for WINTER QUARTER:

Fox River community chorus:

The Fox River Academy is pleased to announce openings for our new Community Chorus! Be a part of a fun, energetic, and engaging choir that performs works from traditional folk music to standards and favorite pop selections.

 Enrollment open for ages 10 through adult
  All levels from beginner to advanced welcome— no experience necessary
  Participation in performance events throughout the community 

Thursdays 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Ten to eleven sessions per quarter
Tuition: $110 (an additional $8 fee for music purchases may apply)
Instructor: Kirsten Fyr

Duet/chamber ensemble class:

Looking for an opportunity to play with other musicians? We welcome any instruments and voice type, any levels and ages, including adults. No prior ensemble experience is necessary; any instrument is welcome. We will assist you with rehearsal techniques, performance techniques, and how to be a better musician. Students will be divided into duet/chamber groups for coaching and assisted practice sessions. 
Each session is eight weeks in length.
Saturdays 11:00am-12:00pm

Tuition: $60 (Includes class materials)
Instructors: Dr. Shiho Saito, Ron Stark

rock ensemble class:

Students will work together in a rock band on popular tunes appropriate to the instrumentation and skill level of participants. Enrollment is limited; please contact the Academy office to secure a slot. 
Seven sessions per quarter
Thursdays 6:00pm-7:00pm; 7:00pm-8:00pm; Saturdays 1:30pm-2:30pm

Tuition: $60 (Includes class materials)
Instructor: Karen Kulzer

Jazz concepts class:

Our Jazz Concepts session, taught by a professional jazz pianist, specifically focuses on concepts such as chord symbols, extended harmony, blues scales, and other tools to help you improve your jazz playing. The piano-based class takes place every other week, and is designed as a supplement to private piano lessons. Enrollment in Fox River Academy private lessons is not a prerequisite; advancement to early elementary piano level is required.

Monday evenings (times depend on availability); 60-minute sessions

Tuition: $60 (additional class materials fee may be required)
Instructor: Scott Williams

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