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Adult Education Ensembles

Contemporary Musical Arts Ensembles

1.5 hours per week (scheduled according to student and instructor availability)
Lautaro Mantilla, Instructor
Tuition: $999

This ensemble is an introduction to the diverse repertoire of underground music starting in 1970s to the present day. This music was (and is) created to represent cultural movements and to help shaping societies. By arranging and recomposing this repertoire, students gain knowledge of different compositional and improvisational approaches and explore different genres and styles.

1.5 hours per week (scheduled according to student and instructor availability)
Lautaro Mantilla, Instructor
Tuition: $999

In this hands-on ensemble, students will be introduced to creative ways to explore and develop their instrument techniques and the possibilities of musical growth and unique approaches to learning and playing in a band. By studying selected contemporary methodologies of improvisation, students will learn the fundamentals of rhythm, harmony, melody, and ear training. Selected repertoire and practical exercises will guide students down the path of finding their own voice and creating their own musical journey while they gain a better understanding of composition and improvisation.

Tuesday, 6 – 7:30 p.m. (1.5 hours per week)
Nat Seelen, Instructor
Tuition: $999

This ensemble offers an introduction for students to a variety of repertoire within the Jewish Tradition of Klezmer. It is an opportunity to perform and arrange repertoire while students gain proficiency on their instruments and learn and explore the multiple layers of this music.

First Class: Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Vocal Ensembles

Monday, 6:30 – 9:15 p.m. (2 hours 45 minutes weekly)
Erica Washburn, Instructor
Tuition: $999

The NEC Symphonic Choir is the Conservatory’s resident community chorus. Ranging from 80 to 90 members and open to all students, regardless of major and year, as well as community members by audition, this ensemble offers its musicians the opportunity to perform music from all styles and periods of choral literature, extending beyond traditional Western masterpieces to the music of non-European cultures. The Symphonic Choir collaborates with NEC’s large instrumental ensembles, as well as with ensembles in greater Boston, and gives its concerts in NEC’s Jordan Hall.
Please note: Registration is not a guarantee of enrollment — this class requires an audition. Email EE@necmusic.com to set up an audition.

Jazz Ensembles

World-class instructors. Individualized learning. NEC Adult Education offers Jazz Ensembles for all experience levels — from seasoned pros to total beginners. Jazz Ensembles are designed for instrumentalists and vocalists who wish to work with a complete rhythm section and are formed at all levels. Emphasis is placed on the exploration of various jazz styles and improvisation techniques. Performances of student compositions are encouraged. 

Although registration and payment is by semester, players are asked to participate for the full year so that groups remain intact. Auditions are held each semester during the registration periods.

Please complete our Request for Information form for more information about Jazz Ensemble auditions and placement.

Chamber Music Ensembles

NEC Adult Education offers chamber ensembles (small ensemble with one on a part) for string, woodwind, brass, and piano students. Chamber music at NEC connects musicians together based on the common interest of their love of music. Each group is coached by a highly experienced teacher and performer who has a passion for chamber music and loves to work with adult learners. Groups are determined by ability, instrumentation, and scheduling availability. Each ensemble receives an hour of coaching each week throughout the semester and will have the opportunity to perform in an end-of-semester concert.

Please complete our interest form form for more information about Chamber Music Ensemble auditions and placement.