General Information

In an effort to provide musical opportunities for the homeschool community, ECMA offers several programs taylored specifically to these students. No previous instrumental experience is necessary as our professional instructors start your child from the very beginning. Explaining not just how to select and play the instrument but how to read music, blend with a group and even perform solos. This is only the beginning to an exciting musical experience!

Why Music?
Take a look at our discussion on how music affects our children. We think you will find it very insightful.

Where To Start
Selecting an instrument your child enjoys and is comfortable with is a critical first step. ECMA offers a FREE "Petting zoo" to anyone interested sampling a variety of instruments. More information is on the Petting Zoo page. If you have further questions, we urge you to contact us. We love discussing children and music!

The following is a summary of each program. Some programs are not offered in all locations. Please contact the ECMA office if you have any questions.

Beginning Band & Orchestra (ages 7 and up)
These beginning ensembles are for students who have never played an instrument. Classes startas individualized groups of like instruments. Students learn the fundamentals of music, establishing a strong foundation to build upon. As they progress, the groups will be combined into a full band or orchestra. Classes include specific instruction, music appreciation and music theory, comparable to private private instruction.

Intermediate Band & Orchestra (ages 8 and up)
These ensembles are for students that have previous experience with band or string instruments. Students will build upon there previous fundamentals of music, working together in a full band or string orchestra. These two groups may also be combined to form a full symphony orchestra. Classes will include specific instruction, music appreciation and music theory, comparable to private private instruction.

Guitar Instruction (ages 7 and up)
This ensemble is for beginning students interested in learning the guitar. Students will work in a group setting, learning the fundamentals of music, establishing a foundation to build upon. Classes will include specific instruciton, music appreciation and music theory, comparable to private lessons.

Private Instruction (all ages)
Private instruction is available on all instruments to those interested in a one-on-one approach to music. This can be done in place of, or as a suplement to the other group programs.

Other Programs
Several other programs are offered depending on the local interest. These include Jazz Ensemble, Recorder Ensemble, Vocal Ensemble,Music Appreciation, Music Theory. If you have an interest in these or other music specialties, please contact us. We are always interested in expanding our program to better meet the needs of the community.

Performances
All groups will perform a minimum of two scheduled concerts each year. A holiday concert in December and spring concert in May. Other performances may be scheduled in area malls, at community events or other locatons at the discretion of the director.