YMP class descriptions
Read about all the classes on offer through New Zealand School of Music’s Young Musicians Programme.
YMP classes
- Jazz
- Composition
- Chamber ensemble coaching
- Classical group classes in piano, strings, voice, woodwind, and guitar.
Apply to enrol for YMP after reading the class descriptions below and viewing the YMP schedule. See also fees, scholarships and withdrawals. Jazz and classical classes run for two ten-week modules and composition for eight weeks. Module 1 YMP classes begin late February. Module 2 begins in late July. Classes have limited numbers and entry criteria. The information below including class times is subject to change including cancellation of classes. Enrol now to secure your place.
Jazz class — Monday 5.30–8pm
Jazz musicians learn jazz theory, improvisation and combo performance skills in an integrated performance-oriented programme presented by NZSM’s acclaimed Rodger Fox aided by postgraduate jazz students and alumni. Develop combo playing skills and gain experience in a wide range of techniques, styles and repertoire.
Composition class — Tuesday 6.30–8pm
Composers expand their skills in an exciting project offered half-yearly, under the expert supervision of NZSM composition staff. Suitable for Year 10–13 students. Limited numbers only.
Classical classes
All classical classes including chamber ensemble coaching prepare students to perform publicly at the end of each module. Students work towards clear goals and develop a high level of performance readiness and presentation.
Piano class — Saturday 10.30am–12pm
Piano class helps broaden knowledge of styles, eras and repertoire, to improve technique and perform confidently. Each module has a different theme and students experience a mix of solo and multi-hand ensemble playing. Students play regularly in front of classmates and benefit from supportive feedback and discussion about technical and performance issues. This class has limited numbers only. A minimum of Grade 4 is required.
String class — Saturday 12–1pm
Violinists, violists, cellists and bassists expand their understanding of style and repertoire, and gain valuable technical skills through solo and ensemble playing. An environment of supportive feedback and discussion with clear goals provides a framework for individual growth. The mix of masterclass and ensemble opportunities lifts performance skills to the next level. This class is taught by NZSM faculty staff.
Voice class — Saturday 12–2pm
YMP’s classical voice class is ideal for young people who want to develop their solo singing and also work as an ensemble. Students learn how to work effectively with a professional accompanist, how to approach a new text and how to prepare for auditions. Each year, the voice class works intensively on two languages, completing a full cycle of four languages (Italian, German, French and English) every two years. The voice class includes additional input on karanga, chant and waiata.
Chamber ensemble coaching — Saturday 12–1pm or 1–2pm
This full year class is essential preparation for those entering the NZCT Chamber Music Contest. The weekly class format includes an hour of instrument-specific tuition from a consistent tutor team. You also get access to rooms for your own ensemble practice time and workshops with other groups leading up to performances. Students are also encouraged to enter the NZSM Queen’s Birthday Chamber Music Weekend with the NZSQ. A minimum of Grade 4 is required. We warmly welcome pre-existing ensembles or will match students. This is a full-year course and students are asked to commit to their group for the full year.
Woodwind class — Saturday 3–4pm
During this class you will work on technical issues such as breathing, intonation, tonguing and finger control while developing your musicianship and understanding of style. You will prepare and perform solo and ensemble pieces from a wide range of woodwind repertoire.
Guitar class — Saturday 4–6pm, Module 2
Students play a broad range of styles from Latin to classical while developing technical and ensemble skills. Tablature and conventional notation systems are used. Students perform both as soloists and in a range of ensemble groupings, giving plenty of opportunities for extension.