General Information
In an effort to provide musical opportunities for the homeschool community, the ECMA has created a music program for home-schooled families. Now in its 21st season, the Encore Academy offers beginning, intermediate and advanced instruction on all band instruments. Members are grouped in small ensemble settings and meet for one hour each week. Adults are welcome to join the program! Our professional director assists your child from the very beginning, explaining how to select and play the instrument, how to read music, work in an ensemble and perform concerts. The program strives to provide a musical experience in a relaxed and fun environment. Music is a valuable aspect in the educational development of the whole student.
Give Your Child the Musical Advantage!
Researchers are providing us with an unprecedented understanding of how we think and how we learn. Studies at the University of Sarasota and East Texas State University both found links between the number of years of music instruction and significantly improved academic achievement as measured by standardized math, science and language tests. Now we know that music is a vital part of a complete education. Our children can benefit greatly from making music. Now is the time to insist that it is a part of your child’s educational experience.
Where To Start
Selecting an instrument your child enjoys and is comfortable with is a critical first step. The ECMA offers a FREE “Petting Zoo” to anyone interested in the program. It provides students with a hands-on experience producing a sound on all of the basic band instruments: flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, percussion/bells. This will help in choosing the instrument that’s right for them. Please visit the Petting Zoo page for more information.
3 Locations
- Carroll County – Thursdays, Westminster Baptist Church
354 Crest Lane, Westminster - Frederick County – Wednesdays, Frederick First Church
7899 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick - Howard County – Fridays, Crossroads Church
2750 Rogers Avenue, Ellicott City
CLASSES OFFERED
Beginning Band (ages 7 and up)
These beginning ensembles are for students who have never played an instrument. Members will be grouped in a band setting, where they will learn the fundamentals of music, establishing a strong foundation to build upon. Classes include specific instruction, music appreciation and music theory. Adults are invited to participate.
Intermediate/Advanced Band (ages 8 and up)
These ensembles are for students that have completed the beginner program or have previous experience on his/her instrument. Classes are grouped by level. Students will enhance their abilities, working together in a symphonic band setting. Classes will include specific instruction, music appreciation and music theory. Adults are invited to participate.
Jazz Band – Carroll County only (ages 8 and up)
This ensemble is for students that have completed the beginner program or have previous experience on his/her instrument. Offered to students with experience on the following instruments: saxophone, trumpet, trombone, drum set, keyboard, guitar. Students will learn basic jazz styles and techniques, working together on basic jazz band repertoire. Adults are invited to participate.
Private Instruction (all ages)
Private instruction is available on all instruments to those interested in a one-on-one approach to music. This is usually done as a supplement to the other group programs.
Concerts
All groups will perform a minimum of two scheduled concerts each year. A winter concert in December and spring concert in May. View our Concert Schedule.