The Division of Preparatory Studies goes far beyond private music lessons! We offer a wealth of group classes and ensemble programs.

Group Fiddling - NEW!     ***JANUARY 2012 REGISTRATIONS BEING ACCEPTED***

Join instructor Beth Hamilton for an introduction to fiddling! This class is for students playing at a minimum grade 2 RCM level or Suzuki book 2 level or above. Repertoire will include Celtic, Métis and French-Canadian styles.

Students are taught by ear and sheet music will also be provided. There will be a group performance at the end of the session.

Further information about the Group Fiddling Program

Registration form for the Group Fiddling Program

Musical Theatre (On Stage in Stages) - NEW!     ***JANUARY 2012 REGISTRATIONS BEING ACCEPTED***

Two levels of Musical Theatre classes for children will be offered with instructor Heather Madill on Thursdays in Room 200 of the Education Building.
Students will sing, act, learn choreography, and most of all, have fun!
Classes will culminate in a showcase cabaret performance.

Further information about On Stage in Stages Musical Theatre classes - JANUARY 2012 START

Registration form for On Stage in Stages Musical Theatre class

Awareness Through Movement® class for Musicians - NEW!     ***JANUARY 2012 REGISTRATIONS BEING ACCEPTED***

Awareness Through Movement® (Feldenkrais) classes are offered on Tuesday evenings. These classes are designed to assist musicians with skill acquisition and efficiency, and will address movement, ability, and breathing, to the benefit of beginners to the most advanced professionals. There’s no studying involved, just come ready to move! The class is led by Colin Mehmel, an Authorized Teacher of Awareness Through Movement, M.Mus (Clarinet Performance) from Michigan State University.

These classes are designed for developing as well as established musicians, and recommended for ages 12+.

Further information about Awareness Through Movement®

Registration form for Awareness Through Movement®

For articles that more fully discuss the benefits and uses of Feldenkrais in a musical environment, click on the links below:

• Feldnet.com
• Feldnet.com: Readings (A Feldenkrais lesson at the Conservatory of Music)

Piano Pedagogy Certificate Program

Instructor Caron Whitlaw Hiebert leads pianists through all three levels (Elementary, Intermediate, Senior) of the RCM Piano Pedagogy Certificate Program.

Further information about the Piano Pedagogy Certificate Program

Faculty of Music Theory Entrance Exam Preparation Courses

Specifically designed to prepare prospective Faculty of Music students for their written theory entrance exams. In each session, students will complete their Entrance Exam during the last class.  Instructor: Aaron Sivertson. Next session: Fall 2012 (dates pending)

This vocal club for young men ages 15+ is designed to supplement ongoing vocal study.  Ensemble members will coach solo and ensemble repertoire with Faculty instructors.  Instructor: Mel Braun. 

Further information about Tuesdays In Winnipeg

Instructor Layla Roberts gives Prep Studies a breath of fresh air with ensembles, "A Mighty Wind" (Level 1) and "Flutissimo" (Level 2).

“Flutissimo” rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 PM and "A Mighty Wind" rehearses on Thursday evenings from 7:00 - 8:00 PM in Room 170 of the Music 2 building on the U of M campus.

Further information about the Flute Ensembles

Group Theory

Theory is a co-requisite for practical exams and an important part of musical development.  In Prep Studies' Group Theory classes, instructors Ruth Douglas and Lorilee Voetberg lead students through all levels of the RCM theory on Monday and Tuesday evenings in the Education Building.  In 30 weekly classes from September to May, students cover an entire theory course and  can write their exams in the May RCM session.  (Conservatory Canada requirements can also be achieved through these courses). 

2011-2012 Theory Class Schedule

Unable to find a theory class that matches your schedule?  Contact 474-9797 to inquire about learning theory via individual lessons.

Joie de Vivre Choir

The Joie de Vivre choir for adults ages 55+ will be directed by John Tanner and accompanied by Deena Grier this year. No audition necessary! The choir rehearses on Saturdays from 10:00-11:30 AM in room 226 of the Education Building on the U of M campus. Choristers perform winter and spring concerts annually, and at other events as opportunities arise. The first rehearsal for the 2011-2012 season is set for Saturday, September 10.

A concert celebrating the tenth Anniversary of the Joie de Vivre choir was held on Saturday, December 10, 2011.

Registration form for Joie de Vivre Choir

Joie de Vivre Choir 10th Anniversary Concert

Winnipeg Free Press article: Choir honours conductor's 60-year career (December 10, 2011)