This program offers assistance to those aspiring to be (or already are), gospel musicians with studies in chord progressions, gospel improvisation technique, and a repertoire consisting primarily of traditional and contemporary gospel.

JAZZ MUSIC

This program focuses primarily on the fundamentals of jazz improvisation, chord construction, scale construction, analytical listening, and their application to performance. 

CLASSICAL MUSIC

Classical music is used as a foundational technique for all of the above programs.

MUSIC THEORY

Computer-based and traditional music theory is included as part of the above programs to further the student’s ability to understand and communicate full musical meaning in performance.  With sufficient theory background, students learn and memorize faster, and generally sight read better than students without theory knowledge.  To develop the ability to hear and manipulate sound mentally, vital for effective musical performance, ear training is strongly emphasized.  Well-developed theory skills also form the basis for student composition, jazz and other styles of improvisation.

The types of music education software programs that the students will have access to during computer time are as follows:

• Music Ace 1 & 2

• Alfred's Theory Games 1 - 5

• Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory 1, 2, & 3

• Sibelius Student Edition Version 5 - Educational

PIANO TEACHER TRAINING

This program is designed to train currently enrolled advanced music students, 16 years of age and older, as teachers at the Studio, under the direction of the Director/Instructor.  Those students interested in this program should discuss the program requirements with the Director.  All students interested in this program must be approved by the Director.  The ability to work well with young children and to communicate effectively verbally and in writing is a requirement.

During this directed teacher training experience, the student will be guided by the Director in assisting in teaching the fundamental skills of piano music.  Students accepted in this program will also have the opportunity to assist the Director with class piano instruction.  The student teacher will have the opportunity, under the direction and guidance of the Director, to develop his/her skills necessary for teacher placement at the Studio.

Prior to receiving a teacher placement, prospective student teachers must complete all requisites:  1) advanced music course work including technique, theory, ear training, and sight reading through on-going private music instruction at Bryant’s Music; 2) college level music courses leading to a University degree; 3) attendance at a minimum of two (2) approved music workshops per year; 4) attendance at a combination of a minimum of six (6) piano recitals and music concerts per year.

COLLEGE PREPARATORY

This program is designed to prepare those students interested in majoring in piano music at the college level, upon graduation from high school.  Students interested in the college preparatory program should make the Director/Instructor aware as soon as the decision (preferably not less than four (4) years prior to graduation) is made for his/her career path, to ensure that the private music course of study can be geared towards audition requirements necessary for entrance in this field of study.

HONORS MUSIC PROGRAM

This program offers gifted piano students with additional performance opportunities and participation in music festivals, competitions, and workshops.

GROUP PIANO/KEYBOARD PROGRAM

This program offers group piano/keyboard instruction for beginning children and adults.  The classes are small with five students per class and each student has the use of an electronic piano/keyboard.  Classes are one hour, once a week, for 8 weeks.  The classes acquaint students with the basic skills of rhythm, note reading, and technique.  Improvisation and beginning ensemble playing ensure a creative and lively experience for each student. 

The goal of each class is to create a positive, fun, and relaxed learning atmosphere.  Friendships develop and the joy of sharing music is experienced.  Working in small groups, students learn not only from the teacher but also from each other.  Student enjoyment and enthusiasm is enhanced; interaction and positive peer pressure provide motivation for accurate playing; and playing in groups significantly improves rhythmic ability. 

A student recital at the conclusion of each 8 week session provides a forum for students to share their progress with their families and friends, and benefit from observing the performances of fellow students.

Click here to view the Class/Fee Schedule for group piano/keyboard classes being offered.

JAZZ ENSEMBLE PROGRAM

This program offers currently enrolled Bryant's Music students that are in middle and high school an opportunity to prepare jazz ensemble literature for recitals. Students rehearse on an as needed basis in preparation for recitals twice a year. Students must be prepared to demonstrate their instrument ability, sense of rhythm, and improvisational skills (if any). A solid ability to read music is required. Please call the Studio for an audition. The jazz ensemble is free to currently enrolled Bryant's Music students.