Performance Ensemble Classes

Gypsy Jazz with Steve Gardner 

Irish Ensemble with Steve Gardner

Americana/Old-Time with Steve Gardner

Our Performance Ensemble Classes are group master classes of 4-6 musicians at the same level of technical ability that focus on working towards a final performance (we have both beginner groups and more advanced groups).  Admission to the class is by instructor approval.  All classes meet weekly for 8 weeks (cost is $200 for all 8 classes).

If you are interested in participating in our ensemble classes, please contact us and let us know which group you're interested in.   Classes are formed on a rolling basis as we have enough musicians available at particular skill levels.

More about the Classes

These classes provide a "band" experience that is carefully guided by our instructors.  Students develop a repertoire of common tunes and work on arrangements that will excite an audience.  Students are then given an opportunity to perform together in a local venue (our past performances have been at the Sleeping Lady in Fairfax).

Performance classes vary by type according to student interests.  We currently are offering performance experiences in:

Irish Performance Band

We have several levels of Irish Performance groups, from beginner through advanced.  These groups focus on playing traditional Irish music using a blend of melody and rhythm instruments.  Class is open to anyone who has been playing Irish music for at least 6 months or who has attended one of our Irish Guitar or Irish Fiddle classes.

Gypsy Jazz

The Gypsy Jazz performance group is an advanced group of students who have all attended some of our other classes.  They will be working on various Gypsy inspired jazz tunes including those by D'Jengo Reinhardt and learning the art of soloing over unusual chord progressions.  We will also be starting a beginner class if there is enough student interest.

Americana/Old-Time

Our Americana/Old-Time performance group will be focusing on folk songs from the US and classic old-time and country tunes.  Focus is on instrumental soloing, vocal development and lively performance.

Become a Player

Other Adult Classes

Guitar Workshop

Acoustic Jam Music Class

Klezmer Music Band

Old Time Music

Traditional and Folk Songwriting