This American Music course explores the development of classical music in the United States from the Colonial era to today. Students will examine how American composers blended European traditions with local influences to create a unique classical sound. The course highlights key figures, major works, and cultural movements that shaped the American classical tradition. Through listening, discussion, and historical context, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the music and its role in reflecting American identity. No prior musical experience is required—just a willingness to listen, learn, and engage with the music. 

Just a few composers we will listen to are Charles Ives, Leonard Bernstein, and John Williams. Come get more acquainted with these great American Masters! 

Mondays, October 6, 13, 20, and 27

6:00 - 7:00 pm 

Founded in 1989, Encore’s mission is to offer our community excellent music in an entertaining way through four seasonal concerts a year while providing quality experiences for the musicians, allowing them the opportunity to return their talents to the community. Encore Symphonic Winds consists of approximately 50 exceptionally talented amateur musicians from the 7-county Grand Traverse region, and continues to serve the community by making music easily accessible to everyone.

Schedule:

Rehearsals and Concert are at the Traverse City Philharmonic Center in Traverse City

November 13, 20, and December 4, 11 at 7:00 - 9:30 pm

NOTE: No rehearsal on November 27 for Thanksgiving

December 14 at 3:00 pm Concert

30 Minute Private Suzuki Lesson:

The Private Suzuki lesson lies at the heart of the learning process. Since a young child needs structure and support, parents come to every lesson, take detailed notes and discuss the lesson with the teacher. The parent takes the techniques learned and provides a home environment in which they can be practiced daily. The parent is expected to be the home practice partner. In this way, the parent is able to ensure that the child is able to repeat the goals of the private lesson every day and can help shepherd the child towards productive and self-reflective learning. Lessons take place each week and last between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on a child's age and level of experience.​​

About the Suzuki Method:The Suzuki Method of teaching and learning music is based upon the philosophy of renowned Japanese violin pedagogue Dr. Shinichi Suzuki discovered early in his professional career: Every Child Can. He realized that all children across the world learn to speak and communicate their native languages with ease, despite the difficulties of the language.  He believed that music is learned in much the same way as language and that every child can thrive in a musical environment.  Dr. Suzuki’s method has come to inspire and guide music instruction all over the world.

This term begins January 5, 2026, and runs through June 1st, 2026. There will be no lessons or group class for Spring Break March 23- April 5th, 2026. The recital will be June 2, 2026 at 3:00 pm. 

Lessons to be schedule individually with the Private Instructor.

45 Minute Private Suzuki Lesson:

The Private Suzuki lesson lies at the heart of the learning process. Since a young child needs structure and support, parents come to every lesson, take detailed notes and discuss the lesson with the teacher. The parent takes the techniques learned and provides a home environment in which they can be practiced daily. The parent is expected to be the home practice partner. In this way, the parent is able to ensure that the child is able to repeat the goals of the private lesson every day and can help shepherd the child towards productive and self-reflective learning. Lessons take place each week and last between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on a child's age and level of experience.​​

About the Suzuki Method:The Suzuki Method of teaching and learning music is based upon the philosophy of renowned Japanese violin pedagogue Dr. Shinichi Suzuki discovered early in his professional career: Every Child Can. He realized that all children across the world learn to speak and communicate their native languages with ease, despite the difficulties of the language.  He believed that music is learned in much the same way as language and that every child can thrive in a musical environment.  Dr. Suzuki’s method has come to inspire and guide music instruction all over the world.

This term begins January 5, 2026, and runs through June 1st, 2026. There will be no lessons or group class for Spring Break March 23- April 5th, 2026. The recital will be June 2, 2026 at 3:00 pm. 

Lessons to be schedule individually with the Private Instructor.

60 Minute Private Suzuki Lesson:

The Private Suzuki lesson lies at the heart of the learning process. Since a young child needs structure and support, parents come to every lesson, take detailed notes and discuss the lesson with the teacher. The parent takes the techniques learned and provides a home environment in which they can be practiced daily. The parent is expected to be the home practice partner. In this way, the parent is able to ensure that the child is able to repeat the goals of the private lesson every day and can help shepherd the child towards productive and self-reflective learning. Lessons take place each week and last between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on a child's age and level of experience.​​

About the Suzuki Method:The Suzuki Method of teaching and learning music is based upon the philosophy of renowned Japanese violin pedagogue Dr. Shinichi Suzuki discovered early in his professional career: Every Child Can. He realized that all children across the world learn to speak and communicate their native languages with ease, despite the difficulties of the language.  He believed that music is learned in much the same way as language and that every child can thrive in a musical environment.  Dr. Suzuki’s method has come to inspire and guide music instruction all over the world.

This term begins January 5, 2025, and runs through May 31, 2024. There will be no lessons or group class for Spring Break March 30- April 5, 2025. The recital will be May 31st at 3:00 pm. 

Lessons to be schedule individually with the Private Instructor.

Founded in 1989, Encore’s mission is to offer our community excellent music in an entertaining way through four seasonal concerts a year while providing quality experiences for the musicians, allowing them the opportunity to return their talents to the community. Encore Symphonic Winds consists of approximately 50 exceptionally talented amateur musicians from the 7-county Grand Traverse region, and continues to serve the community by making music easily accessible to everyone.

Schedule:

Rehearsals and Concert are at Traverse City Philharmonic Center in Traverse City

January 29, February 5, 12, and 19 from 7:00 - 9:30 pm

February 21 7:00 pm Concert

Founded in 1989, Encore’s mission is to offer our community excellent music in an entertaining way through four seasonal concerts a year while providing quality experiences for the musicians, allowing them the opportunity to return their talents to the community. Encore Symphonic Winds consists of approximately 50 exceptionally talented amateur musicians from the 7-county Grand Traverse region, and continues to serve the community by making music easily accessible to everyone.

Schedule:

Rehearsals and Concert are at Traverse City Philharmonic Center in Traverse City

March 26 & April 2, 9, and 16 at 7:00 - 9:30 pm

April 19th at 3:00 pm Concert