• Instrumental Music at NESA

    Open to brass, woodwind, percussion, string, piano, and guitar students, our instrumental music major provides comprehensive training to build technical mastery across multiple genres to develop fluency in performing, composing, and improvising. Our program is designed to develop all four language domains: reading (sight-reading), writing (composing), listening (music theory), and speaking (playing by ear). Students strengthen their musical talents through 8 annual concerts spanning chamber, film, classical, broadway, jazz, and mixed media formats while utilizing industry technologies. 

    NESA instrumentalists also gain experience by partnering with the Young Producers Group, Soundtrap, and Ableton to provide a digital audio and recording experience as students move into a technology reliant industry. By already being prepared, instrumentalists are able to follow in the footsteps of alumni by attending Juilliard, Harvard, Stanford, Yale, the Peabody Conservatory, Oberlin Conservatory, Boston Conservatory, Berklee College of Music, Cleveland Institute of Music, and San Francisco Conservatory. 

     

  • Educational Areas of Instrumental Music

    Orchestra & Ensemble
    Students become part of a performance-based orchestra that continually refines their technical skills and expands their knowledge of orchestral literature through rehearsals and concerts. From chamber music to symphonic pieces, students explore the rich world of orchestral music.

    Chamber Music
    In this class, students study small chamber works within their instrumental groups. They also learn about orchestral music in sectionals, further enhancing their ensemble skills and understanding of complex compositions.

    Theory & Composition
    Understanding the language of music is a crucial aspect of the program. Students begin with Music Theory I, learning the fundamentals of music, ear training, and music history. Students can progress to AP Music Theory, preparing them for college-level work in analyzing notated music and aural training. An available composition class allows advanced students to explore the art of composing their own music, studying harmonic analysis, counterpoint, form, and orchestration.

  • Career Paths in Instrumental Music

    Graduating from NESA as an Instrumental Music Major leads to a variety of exciting careers, including:

    Professional Musician: Performs on stages around the world, whether in classical orchestras, jazz ensembles, or as solo artists.

    Composer: Creates original compositions for orchestras, films, television, and more.

    Music Educator: Inspires the next generation of musicians as a music teacher or professor.

    Conductor: Leads orchestras and ensembles to create captivating musical experiences.

    Sound Engineer: Shapes the sonic landscape in recording studios and live performances.

    Music Producer: Crafts and produces music for artists and projects across various genres.

  • Student Showcase