Performances + Events
Contemporary Music Education at NEC
Discover a vibrant community of creative music-making through Expanded Education at New England Conservatory, where contemporary arts and global traditions come to life.
From learning by ear to collaborative performance, our programs empower musicians of all ages and experience levels to find their voice and connect through song.
Spring 2026 Offerings
Explore our current lineup of immersive, ensembles and skill-building classes designed for every stage of the musical journey. These programs run in convenient four-week blocks, allowing you to build your skills at a pace that fits your schedule.
Experience the joy of community-centered singing in an intergenerational ensemble designed for families and individuals of all ages. Through folk and contemporary traditions, singers of all experience levels explore harmonization in a supportive, low-pressure setting.
Dates: February 28 – March 21
Time: Saturdays, 1-1:50 pm
Instructor: Erin Hogan
Age Eligibility: All ages
Immerse yourself in the traditional tunes and rhythms of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales while developing essential aural skills. In addition to instrumental performance, students gain a deeper connection to the style by exploring traditional folk dances.
Youth Ensemble
Dates: March 22 – April 12
Time: Sundays, 9-10 a.m.
Instructor: Adam Hendey
Age Eligibility: Under 18 years
Adult Ensemble
Dates: March 22 – April 12
Time: Sundays, 10-11 a.m.
Instructor: Adam Hendey
Age Eligibility: Over 18 years
Join an inclusive, facilitated environment where musicians of all backgrounds and styles can connect and create together. This relaxed session focuses on breaking down musical barriers and learning through shared, real-time collaboration.
Youth Ensemble
Dates: March 22 – April 12
Time: Sundays, 12–12:50 p.m.
Instructor: Noah Fishman
Age Eligibility: Under 18 years
Adult Ensemble
Dates: March 22 – April 12
Time: Sundays, 1–2 p.m.
Instructor: Noah Fishman
Age Eligibility: Over 18 years
Start your musical journey by learning basic chords and rhythms through familiar, accessible songs. This encouraging four-week course is designed specifically for beginners and children to build a musical foundation in a relaxed atmosphere.
Dates: Saturdays, March 14 – April 4
Times: Saturdays, 10–11 a.m.
Instructor: Erin Hogan
Age Eligibility: 5–10 years
Explore global folk traditions through a collaborative process that emphasizes learning by ear and internalizing musicality. Participants of all ages and levels will develop original arrangements while building a diverse and performable repertoire.
Dates: March 22 – April 12
Time: Sundays, 2–3 p.m.
Instructor: Noah Fishman
Age Eligibility: All ages
Discover the craft of songwriting as you learn to transform creative ideas into fully realized lyrics and melodies. In a supportive environment, you will develop your unique voice through guided prompts and collaborative peer feedback.
Youth Class
Dates: March 25 – April 15
Time: Wednesdays, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Instructor: Amanda Taylor
Age Eligibility: Under 18 years
Adult Class
Dates: March 25 – April 15
Time: Wednesdays, 6:30–8 p.m.
Instructor: Amanda Taylor
Age Eligibility: Over 18 years
NEC Expanded Education offers a full suite of additional classes, summer intensives, and private lessons tailored to musicians of every age and skill level. Whether you’re exploring a new passion or refining your craft, we provide a personalized path to help you reach your full creative potential.
Contact Us
For more information about music education at NEC, please contact us at ee@necmusic.edu.
Contact Us
