Tuesday Wind Ensemble with Katie Fritts

Playing in an ensemble enhances musical skills, fosters support and patience, reinforces techniques, exposes you to diverse genres, and boosts self-esteem, making it a rewarding and enjoyable experience beyond private lessons.

This class aims to develop strong sight-reading habits, foster positive group behavior when encountering new material, and teach students to listen and balance their playing within the group. Focus will be on a few carefully chosen songs that offer variety and challenge, such as Mission Impossible, Blue Monk, Pachelbel's Canon, Afro Blue, Soul Bossa Nova, Tubular Bells medley, Sandstorm, Rock With Bach, or selections from Cumbia, Reggaeton, or Middle Eastern music.

• Tuesdays, Mar 3 - May 6, 7:15 - 8:15p
  (performance date: Wed, May 6 at The Hopmonk in Novato)
• Cost: $378 for 9 sessions (8 weekly lessons + 1 performance night)
• All wind instruments are eligible: Trombone, saxophone, clarinet, bass clarinet, trumpet, flute, baritone horn, tuba, oboe and bassoon
• Requirements: Min. 1 year playing experience, ages 10-15 years old, must bring your own instrument
• Min/Max group size*: 6-15 players
• Location: The Magic Flute

Pop & Rock Academy with Brody Valentino

Experience the thrill of being in a band! Students will practice in a professional studio, with professional sound, lighting, and instruction, play a song of their choosing, and feel the excitement of performing in a group. Singers get to belt out hits from their favorite pop artists, while musicians learn the essentials of collaboration, rehearsal, and rocking the stage!

• Wednesdays Jan 21 - Mar 25, 6:30-7:30p
  (performance date: Wed, Mar 25 at The Hopmonk in Novato)
• Cost: $549 for 9 sessions (8 weekly lessons + 1 performance night)
• Eligible instruments: Bass, drums, guitar, vocals, piano, horns, violin and cello
• Requirements: Min. 1 year playing and/or singing experience, ages 12-15 years old, must bring your own instrument (except for drums/keyboards/amps)
• Min/Max group size*: 4-10 players
• Location: Valentino Studios (17 Joseph Court, San Rafael near The Magic Flute)

Motivation & Excitement: Kids stay more engaged when they’re part of a group, inspired by the energy of making music together.

Teamwork & Communication: Students learn how to listen, blend, and support one another, developing essential collaboration skills.

Confidence Building: Performing with others helps kids feel more comfortable taking risks and builds stage presence.

Real Band Experience: Instead of just practicing alone, students enjoy the thrill of creating a bigger sound as part of a group.

Life Skills: Group lessons teach patience, problem-solving, and leadership—skills that go beyond music.

Friendships & Community: Being in a band creates bonds and shared goals, giving kids a sense of belonging.

Practice Daily: Get comfortable and proficient with your part(s).

Choose a Song to Play and Sing: Everyone gets to choose a song, choose something that you want to play and sing.

Show Up Ready to Play: Treat each lesson as a band rehearsal, be ready to contribute!