Music Theory Classes
See the Spring schedule of music theory courses.
A solid foundation in music theory helps students of all levels build and improve their music literacy and their ability to think more analytically and creatively about their own playing. Students enjoy group games and activities while learning the musical concepts of rhythm, melody and harmony. All instrumentalists and vocalists are welcome. These classes provide a great supplement to private lessons or can refresh skills from previous study.
Advanced classes are excellent preparation for the Advanced Placement (AP) Music Theory exam. NMS also offers theory classes specifically geared toward preparing for the theory component of the National Music Certificate Program. Class placement will be confirmed by Music Theory & Diploma/Certificate Program Coordinator Jody Rowitsch 203-624-5189 x 36 or jrowitsch@neighborhoodmusicschool.org.
Classes for Children & Preteens (through age 12)
Beginning - For children and preteens, generally ages 8+, in their first three years of study. Intermediate - For children and preteens, generally ages 10+, who have 3+ years of study.
Classes for Teens (age 13+) & Adults
Beginning - For students with little or no experience in music theory. Class covers notation, scales, key signatures, rhythm drills, begins to develop aural skills with dictation of rhythm, pitch and interval training.
Intermediate - For those with a rudimentary understanding and some playing experience. Class continues improving fundamentals, plus minor scales and key signatures, intervals, triads and inversions. Some form and harmonic analysis included and continued development of aural skills.
Advanced - For experienced students looking to deepen their musical understanding and skills. We continue improving intermediate fundamentals, begin 4-part writing, borrowed and augmented chords, modes, form and harmonic analysis. Continued development of aural skills. AP Prep - For students with advanced knowledge. Review and practice taking the AP Music Theory exam.
Diploma & Certificate Programs
Junior Diploma Program
The Junior Music / Dance Diploma Program is designed for enthusiastic students in grades 6 - 9 who desire a more rounded music experience. Entrance to the program is by teacher recommendation and no audition is required. Students will play for a faculty committee at the end of each semester. The diploma is awarded for each year of successful student participation, for up to four years.
The Junior Diploma Program for each semester includes: four NMS Performance Seminars and a semi-annual adjudication. Students must also be enrolled in an appropriate-level music theory class (14 weeks), an ensemble (14 weeks) and private lessons (16-18 weeks). Class, private lesson and ensemble costs are charged separately.
Certificate Program
The more rigorous three-year NMS Certificate Program is designed for serious high school students who desire a more intense and in-depth music education. Admission is by teacher recommendation and audition prior to the sophomore year.
In addition to semi-annual adjudications, each candidate must take a Performance Seminar, an ensemble, and be enrolled in a music theory class each semester. After three years, the student must be able to pass a theory proficiency exam equivalent to the HS Advanced Placement exam. The program culminates in a senior recital. The Music Performance Certificate will be awarded after three years to students who demonstrate proficiency in their chosen instrument. A Senior Diploma will be awarded instead to those who make arrangements to fulfill only partial requirements.
