Instrumental Music

Instrumental Music Studies offers a comprehensive and transformative educational experience for individuals passionate about mastering their chosen instrument. Whether it's the eloquent notes of a violin, the resonant tones of a brass instrument, or the nimble fingers dancing across piano keys, this program caters to a diverse range of instrumentalists. Through rigorous training, students refine their technical skills, honing their intonation, phrasing, and dexterity. With an esteemed faculty comprised of accomplished musicians, students receive personalized guidance and mentorship, nurturing their musical growth and instilling a deep appreciation for the art form. The program not only focuses on solo performance but also fosters ensemble collaboration, allowing students to participate in orchestras, chamber groups, and bands, thus cultivating essential skills in teamwork, communication, and musical interpretation. Graduates of the program emerge as adept instrumentalists poised for both professional careers and a lifelong journey of musical excellence.

Immersed in a rich musical environment, the Instrumental Studies area is dedicated to fostering a holistic approach to musicianship. Beyond technical mastery, students engage in rigorous theoretical study, delving into music history, analysis, and interpretation. This well-rounded education equips students with the knowledge to dissect and appreciate musical compositions at a profound level, enhancing their ability to infuse emotion and depth into their performances. The program also emphasizes the development of critical listening skills, enabling students to discern nuances in tone, dynamics, and expression. Whether aspiring to be a virtuoso soloist, a chamber musician, or an orchestral performer, the Instrumental Studies area empowers students with the skills, knowledge, and artistic sensibility to excel in the world of instrumental music.

COURSES:

Private Instruction
Class Piano
Class Guitar
Jazz Combo
Jazz Ensemble
Percussion Ensemble
Steel Pan Ensemble
Mariachi Ensemble
Flute Choir
Recorder Ensemble
Chamber Music Ensemble
Community Orchestra
Community Band

The Concert Band holds two concerts each semester, performing music from a variety of styles on each concert around a central theme. The Concert Band consists of music majors, college students, and community members and is open to all without audition. Instruments are available to rent by the semester through the college. Please contact Dr. Rose French (rose.french@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information.

The Community Orchestra performs two concerts each semester, performing music from a variety of styles on each concert around a central theme. The Concert Orchestra consists of music students and community members and is open to all without audition. Instruments are available to rent by the semester through the college. Please contact Ajay Patel (ajay.patel@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information.

The Big Band at Phoenix College is comprised of music students and community members and open to all based on the needs of the ensemble. The ensemble performs two concerts each semester, collaborates with local composers and guest artists and holds one concert each year at the Nash. Please contact Ryan Anthony (ryan.anthony@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information.

Jazz Combos are an opportunity for musicians to gain practical and performance experience in various jazz styles in a small group setting. Combos are formed by available instrumentation and are assigned by the directors. Please contact Mary Petrich (mary.petrich@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information.

Established in 2019, Mariachi Osos del Valle performs traditional and contemporary mariachi music as well as the traditions surrounding the music. Mariachi Osos del Valle is open to community members and instruments are available to rent by the semester through the college. Please contact Dr. Rose French (rose.french@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information.

The chamber music course is open to all musicians; groups are determined by instrumentation of class members. This class focuses on traditional chamber music ensembles and contemporary combinations of instruments. Please contact Dr. Rose French (rose.french@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information.

Practical and performance experience in various percussion styles. Percussion literature from a diverse number of world musical traditions. Western European art music, various African traditions, Indian music, Japanese music, Indonesian music, Mexican, Central, and South American music, and percussion compositions from the American Experimental Tradition rehearsed and performed. Concerts presented throughout the semester. Percussion techniques are studied and refined as they relate to the literature performed. Emphasis placed on reading and listening skills, increased aesthetic discrimination. Informed performance practice and skills on all percussion instruments and traditions. Please contact Wes Hawkins (wes.hawkins@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information.

The steelpan is the national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago, and has grown to global popularity as its distinctive sound is emblematic of Afro-Caribbean and West Indian music and culture. This class will focus on the basics of the instrument, its history and culture, and its role in the musical styles of Calypso and Soca, as well as a diversity of other musical styles. No previous experience required, may be repeated for credit.

Please contact Wes Hawkins (wes.hawkins@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information.

Ensemble of the entire flute family that includes piccolo, E flat flute, C flutes, alto flutes, and bass flute. Literature will include commissioned works, original works for standard flute choir, and transcriptions from various musical periods. Please contact Dr. Sabrina Hu (sabrina.hu@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information

The jazz improvisation class focuses on theoretical and performance skills in many styles of jazz improvisation. Please contact Mary Petrich (mary.petrich@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information.

Guitar classes are open to beginners and students with previous experience. This class focuses on note-reading, accompaniment styles, and leads to learning music from a variety of genres including classical, popular, and Latin. Instruments are available to rent by the semester through the college. Please contact Dr. Rose French (rose.french@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information.

Piano classes are open to beginners and students with previous experience. Instructors will place students in the appropriate class level, where students will learn music from a variety of genres. Please contact Dr. Jessica Yam (jessica.yam@phoenixcollege.edu) for more information.