Programs

The Music Stream Center’s (MSC) comprehensive private lesson has a unique combination of programs. It includes individual lessons with music lab time, musicianship classes, MSC recitals, Music Teachers’ Association concert opportunities, and various auditions, competitions, master classes, special awards, etc.

Musicianship Class

• The musicianship class consists of theory, ear training, rhythm, performance, repertoire, ensemble, music history, music appreciation, composition, improvisation, transposition, harmonization, singing, movements, sight singing / sight playing and technique, etc. 
• Students learn each subject through the benefit of group teaching and games in general.
• The detailed contents of each class depend upon the age and level of each group. 
• Each class has 5 to 8 students and lasts 60 minutes long. 
• The musicianship classes are scheduled about 4 to 5 weeks apart except in the summer. Please refer to the MSC calendar for the dates.
• The classes will be held in place of the private lesson for that week.

Recitals

• There will be 4 to 5 MSC recitals throughout the school year.
• Every student must dress up for any recital or musical event. This is part of the student’s training. Boys need to wear a dress shirt, dress slacks, a tie, and dress shoes. Girls need to wear a suitable dress. Dressing up always makes the performer feel good and play better.
• All the students are expected to perform at EVERY studio recital.  This is perhaps the most valuable part of the student’s musical education.
• Students will also be given the opportunity to perform in recitals presented by CAPMT (California Association of Professional Music Teachers), DMTA (Davis Music Teachers’ Association), MTAC (Music Teachers’ Association of California), MTNA (Music Teachers’ National Association) and SMAC (Suzuki Music Association of California).

Evaluations

• All piano students are expected to participate in the National Guild Piano-Playing auditions.  This audition provides a goal for each student and the evaluation measures the progress the student made over the entire year.  Each participating student will receive a certificate with comments and a pin.

• This audition takes place in May, and it is held in Davis.
• The fee for this audition is $25 to $40, and is based on the number of pieces each student can memorize and perform.

• All the school age students are encouraged to participate in a study program sponsored by MTAC called the Certificate of Merit (CM).  The CM evaluation includes technical skills, preparation of varied literature for performance, sight-reading, ear training, and the study of theory and music history.  Each student who passes all phases will receive a certificate with comments and will advance to the next level.

• The CM takes place every February or March in Davis or Sacramento.
• The fee for CM is $25 to $50, and differs by level.