FAQs
How much will I actually be playing my instrument?
In the large group workshop, you will participate in a mixture of playing and non-playing activities. In the small group, you will be playing your instrument most of the time.
Will I be able to hear the other musicians? Isn’t it impossible to play together due to latency?
Yes, you will be able to hear the other musicians as you play together. Though the sound will be delayed, latency is an aspect that we will embrace. In the small ensembles, we will create asynchronous music that is not pulse driven and therefore does not need to align exactly to be successful.
If I miss a session, can I go back and watch it later on my own time?
No. All the sessions are live on Zoom and are not recorded. Please plan accordingly so that you can participate in all of the sessions.
Will younger students be placed in age-appropriate groups?
Yes. Students will be grouped according to musical experience and background as well as by age group.
Can I request my private composition lessons instructor? Can I get lessons from multiple composers?
Yes and yes. We cannot guarantee that all requests will be honored, but we will do our best to accommodate. Private lessons will be scheduled based on student and teacher availability.
What traditional repertoire are we going to play?
None. The ensemble works will all be totally new, specifically composed to highlight the strengths of a virtual ensemble. Students will collaborate and write their own works for the small ensembles (with guidance from a mentor composer).
Is all of this live? Or is some of it prerecorded webinars?
This is all live — none of it is prerecorded. There will be times we watch or listen to a musical example together, but all sessions are live at the times indicated.
I just graduated high school. Can I still participate?
Yes, and we would love to have you join us!
I’d like to get an audio interface and microphone. What do you suggest?
The Zoom H1 is a nice, compact option that can serve as a USB connected interface or a portable recorder for concerts, recording sessions, etc. Another great option is the Shure MVi iOS/USB audio interface, available as a great bundle with headphones and microphone here.
I’m a vocalist and this looks awesome, can I participate?
Yes! The academy is for all musicians; instrumentalists and vocalists.
English is not my native language, can I still participate?
Sure! All sessions will be conducted in English and as long as you feel comfortable communicating in English, please join us!
Is financial aid available?
Yes. We desire to make it possible for everyone who wants to join us to be able to participate regardless of family finances. We have a limited amount of funds available. Please email for more information.
Do you offer a sibling discount?
Unfortunately, no. Each student is getting individualized attention, and so we are not able to offer this. Additionally, you may want to consider if your home situation is able to accommodate two participants in sound isolated rooms, and both on bandwidth intensive internet.
Do you offer refunds?
No. We do not offer refunds.