Founded in 2003 to provide additional depth to the rich tapestry of the Geneva School experience, The Geneva Conservatory of Music (GCM) is located within and works in accordance with the values, purpose, and mission of The Geneva School of Manhattan. This partnership provides an enriching environment where excellence, friendship, and service to others are reinforced.
The Conservatory offers instruction in piano, violin, cello, music composition, music theory, voice, and chamber music to Geneva School students. Additionally, each student is placed in a music theory class or Suzuki violin group class. Chamber music ensembles are available to brass, string, piano, and woodwind students. Frequent public performances give students the opportunity to develop confidence and stage presence.
Private Lessons
Private lessons are offered for 30, 45, or 60 minutes of instruction in piano, violin, viola, cello, and voice. Students have the opportunity to perform in at least four recitals annually, attend masterclasses, and participate in special concerts and musical field trips designed for GCM students.Private lessons include a 30-minute weekly Music Theory class of appropriate level (see below). Violin students in their early years participate in Suzuki group class instead of Music Theory, graduating to an Advanced Ensemble as they get older.
Chamber Music Program
Chamber music may be taken in addition to private lessons or as a separate course and is open to students who play piano, string (violin, viola, cello), woodwind (flute, clarinet, etc.), or brass (trumpet, trombone, etc.) instruments. Chamber Music students focus on developing ensemble skills, communication, and leadership. Chamber Music students receive a weekly 45-minute coaching session and are placed in an ensemble by audition. Requirements include a minimum of two years of study, demonstrated proficiency on their instrument, and ability to read music. Chamber Music students are not required to take private lessons at The Geneva Conservatory of Music. GCM welcomes any interested student who meets these requirements.
Music Theory and Musicianship
These courses may be taken in addition to private lessons or as a separate course. They are open to any interested student.
Beginning or Intermediate Music Theory
This class is for students with little or no music theory training. Topics covered include reading notes in treble and bass clefs, writing notes, reading and counting basic rhythmic values, time signatures, accidentals, dynamics and articulations, major scales, intervals, key signatures, and the circle of fifths. Recognizing intervals, chords, and rhythms by ear, as well as basic conducting and composition skills, will also be explored. Intermediate classes will also delve into minor scales, triads, and compositional analysis. Students are placed according to age and ability, and the pace of the class will be more rigorous for older students.
Advanced Music Theory/Ear Training I
This class is designed for students who have had basic music theory training already and are eager to move deeper into the inner workings of music. Students study melody, harmony, and rhythm from a creative perspective and begin to write music of their own. In addition, students will learn to recognize intervals and chords by ear. This class gives students a chance to take their musical study even further after Level I. They will learn more about how composers create their music and become composers themselves—the best way to learn about music is to write it! The course also trains students to write down music by ear and develop basic conducting skills.
Excellence: Our aim is to create well-rounded musicians who are proficient on their instruments and have a solid grasp of music theory and musicianship. Performance opportunities and access to professional performances reinforce a pursuit of excellence.
Community: Friendship, encouragement, and communication are the building blocks of our community. Each student is encouraged to develop his or her own creative ability while gaining an appreciation for the creative abilities of others.
Formation: Students flourish in an atmosphere that celebrates God-given creativity and inspires achievement. We desire for each child to grow not only in their musical abilities but also in the formation of their character and service to others.
The Conservatory’s world-class instructors are accomplished musicians in their fields, having achieved the highest levels of musical training, many of them at The Juilliard School, and having performed in the world’s most renowned concert halls. Our teachers encourage creativity and love for music, emphasize excellence, and foster values such as service, communication, and leadership.