2010-2011 ENSEMBLE PROGRAM


Whether you call it chamber music, a combo, string trio, band, clarinet choir, a session, or just jammin' with friends, playing music with other people is FUN! IHM has many opportunities for you to find people to play with, and coaches willing to help you play better. All you have to do is ask the right questions --


CUSTOM ENSEMBLE QUESTIONNAIRE - Fill out this form to sign up for an ensemble!



WHAT KIND OF MUSIC CAN I PLAY?

Jazz, classical, folk, early music, rock, Irish and more! You can even create your own original music. You can be in a group with just your instrument, or with mixed instruments. Vocalists are welcome too!


WHAT IF I'M 10? WHAT IF I'M 50?

We have and can create groups that are for a certain age group (children, teens, adults), or are inter-generational (all ages welcome). If you would rather be with musicians your own age, let us know.


HOW ADVANCED DO I HAVE TO BE TO PLAY IN AN ENSEMBLE

You should have good basic skills with your instrument. Some groups will specify that they are for intermediate or advanced musicians. In your placement meeting we can determine what your skill level is.


WHY DO YOU HAVE PLACEMENT MEETINGS?

We want to hear you play (or sing) and to talk with you about your preferences, so we can match you with other musicians who share your interests, level of musical skills, age, compatibility and schedule.


WHEN ARE THE PLACEMENT MEETINGS?

We form groups at the beginning of each semester (fall and spring) and schedule placement meetings in September and February. When you have returned your questionnaire we will contact you to choose a meeting time.


WHO TEACHES THE GROUPS?

Many of the Music School faculty are skilled coaches who will choose music for your group, and will help you learn and interpret the music and give tips on working well together as an ensemble.


WHEN DO ENSEMBLES MEET TO PRACTICE?

Ensembles are available most days and evenings of the week, depending on the coach's schedule and room availability. There are a number of groups that are on-going (like Jazz Standards Band, Clarinet Choir and Sessions on the Hill) which have a set schedule. If you are looking for a custom group, we will tailor the schedule to match the group's needs.

Most groups meet once a week for 60 minutes, for 12 or 15 weeks. Depending on start date, some groups may run for a shorter number of weeks.


DO WE GET TO PERFORM FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS?

Groups are welcome to play in the end-of-semester recitals in January and June. Other performing opportunities may also be available. We are always looking for musicians to play at special school events and outreach performances in our communities.


HOW DO I SIGN UP?

Complete a questionnaire that provides us with information about your music background and interests, then we will contact you to schedule your placement meeting.


CAN I SIGN UP IF I DON'T TAKE LESSONS AT IHM?

Absolutely! If you are not a part of the IHM family, this is a great way to get involved. Follow this link to the questionnaire and send or bring the completed form to the school office.


CAN MY FRIEND AND I SIGN UP TOGETHER?

Yes! If you have a friend (or more than one) you want to be part of your group, let us know. You don't have to play the same instrument.