MUSIC THEORY CLASS

We offer four levels of theory classes with a NEW class offering of Composition. Beginning students progress from Theory I to Theory IV. Our experienced students are tested and placed into the appropriate level class. These classes are designed to help students improve their ability to read and interpret musical symbols, play rhythmic patterns, sight sing, read and hear and remember melodies and chords. Each student is tested before they advance to the next class to ensure class material is understood. The Music Theory Class is included for students who are enrolled in the full program.

Beginning Music Composition
This advanced theory class is designed for students who passed all four levels of music theory and who also want more performance experience. Students will collaborate with their peers in a group setting to write music that will be performed by themselves and their peers during the instrument recitals. The class will cover basic composition concepts such as counterpoint and review harmony, but most of all, it is creativity and performance focused. At the end of the school year, each student will have a portfolio consisting of 3 full-length pieces, with their world premier performances occurring during recitals at SCM. This workshop-style class helps students develop creative performance skills that can later be applied to improvisation and a great starting point for those who want to learn how to write their own music.

Theory Safari
A comprehensive class for music beginners in Kindergarten through 2nd Grade. Children learn the basics of music and theory, while introducing them to a range of instruments from percussion to strings to winds. Hands-on participation and fun crafts are a staple, making this class a memorable and enjoyable way for our youngest students to prepare for instrument lessons and our Theory I class the following year. Plan to enroll for all three quarters, as each quarter will cover different material and build on the last one.

Jazz Improvisation
This is a lab for students who have reached at least intermediate level in their instrument and have mastered the Theory II class. This lab teaches jazz theory and techniques. It introduces students to the art of improvisation, and gives the students the tools needed to create melodies at a simple harmonic level. Students will participate in a small jazz ensemble. Other prerequisites and corequisites apply.
Let's Make Music!
The Saturday Conservatory of Music (SCM) was established to provide affordable, quality music instruction to children in the greater Los Angeles area, targeting children from low income families and the school trained musician.