Sierra College Music at Nevada County Campus invites learners to join its vibrant community for the upcoming Spring 2025 semester. Courses such as the Jazz Ensemble, beginning guitar, voice classes, and an orchestra music class are now open for enrollment. The jazz ensemble offers a unique opportunity to develop performance skills in a supportive environment, while other courses provide diverse musical experiences. Led by experienced educators, these programs cater to beginners and advanced students alike, offering an affordable and enriching educational journey.
Exploring Jazz: A Collaborative Learning Experience
The Jazz Ensemble at Sierra College provides a platform for students to enhance their musical abilities through collaborative performances. This course runs from January to May, meeting weekly on Thursdays. Participants will learn to read scores, understand jazz theory, and practice improvisation, all under the guidance of Justin Purtill, a renowned musician with extensive experience. Whether you're new to jazz or have some background, this ensemble welcomes all levels of proficiency.
In-depth exploration of jazz techniques and theories is a cornerstone of the ensemble's curriculum. Students will engage in weekly rehearsals that foster teamwork and individual growth. Auditions, which assess basic instrumental skills, occur during the first week of classes. No prior jazz experience is necessary, making this an ideal starting point for aspiring musicians. The ensemble director, Justin Purtill, brings a wealth of knowledge from his education at Berklee School of Music and his work with Grammy-winning artists, ensuring a rich learning experience. Through hands-on practice and mentorship, students can refine their skills and gain confidence in their musical expression.
Diverse Musical Offerings for All Levels
Beyond the Jazz Ensemble, Sierra College Music offers a variety of courses tailored to different interests and skill levels. Beginning guitar classes, voice lessons, and an orchestra music appreciation course are available, providing comprehensive musical training. These courses are designed to be inclusive, welcoming both college and high school students, as well as community members. With flexible scheduling options, learners can find a program that fits their needs and availability.
Professor Purtill leads the beginning guitar class, held on Wednesday afternoons, where students can master the fundamentals of playing. Voice classes on Monday and Wednesday mornings offer personalized instruction to improve vocal technique. Additionally, the Tuesday morning OLLI class delves into the world of orchestral music, broadening students' understanding of classical compositions. Each course is structured to promote skill development and musical appreciation. At just $46 per unit, these affordable classes provide a valuable opportunity for anyone seeking to deepen their musical knowledge and talents. Enrollment is currently open, inviting everyone to embark on a musical journey at Sierra College.