ROCKPORT — Registration is open at Bay Chamber Music School for group classes and ensembles. 

“The health and safety of our students and staff is of the utmost priority, and measures have been taken to ensure the security and comfort of all as we begin to offer a limited number of in-person lessons and small group classes at our Rockport location,” said Bay Chambers, in a news release.

Group class size is limited to eight students and all participants including faculty and staff are required to wear masks at all times.

Group classes will meet in the largest spaces available, either at the Music School location, 18 Central St. in Rockport or down the block at Union Hall, 24 Central St. Both locations are well supplied with hand sanitizer, wipes, and masks, according to the School.

New this fall Bay Chamber Music School offers Fiddle Jam, led by violinist Luke Fatora, on Thursdays, from 5:30 - 6:15  p.m., in the Recital Hall at the music school or virtually through an online platform. Students will learn old time, folk, and bluegrass fiddle music, learning to play together in group jam type settings. Classes will be taught online with monthly/bi-monthly in-person meetings for jam sessions of material covered. The fee is $10/week for the 12-week session.

The ensemble program for young strings players, Allegro, returns this fall on Tuesdays, from 4:15 - 5 p.m., at Union Hall. 

“A wonderful first experience ensemble for string players, Allegro is open to students with at least one year of violin, viola, cello, harp, or bass who are comfortable reading music and playing in the keys of A, D, C, and G,” said the School. Allegro opens a new world of ensemble playing while reinforcing technique and reading skills in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

“Led by Colin Wheatley and Nate Martin, Allegro is a great way for young musicians to learn to play together,” said the School.

The Chamber Music Program at the Music School offers participants the opportunity to play in small ensemble settings such as trios, quartets or quintets. Due to COVID-19 ensembles cannot include winds and brass players at this time. Musicians of all ages and abilities participate in these ensembles, coached by Bay Chamber Faculty. Costs vary depending on the size of the group. Please contact the office to learn more.

Finally, depending on interest, the Bay Chamber Jazz Ensemble will return this fall for strings, piano and percussionists. The Ensemble meets on Tuesday evenings, from 6 - 7 p.m., in Union Hall and costs $10/session. For Music School students enrolled in private instruction, all group classes are free. The Jazz Ensemble is led by Mike Whitehead and Nate Martin and open to all levels. No experience with playing jazz is necessary.

With an emphasis on creating an exceptional experience, based on total musicianship and a positive, enriching exchange between student and instructor, Bay Chamber Music School provides a dynamic environment in which musicians of every level can learn and grow though music education, practice, and performance. Spaces are limited due to COVID-19 restrictions so be sure to contact Bay Chamber today to enroll in group classes and ensembles.

Bay Chamber concerts is committed to making high quality arts education accessible and affordable to all. For more information about financial aid or any educational programming, please contact Monica Kelly, Executive Director at Monica@baychamberconcerts.org or (207) 236-2823.