Heilbrunn Music School
Bronx House proudly continues our tradition of offering high-quality music education geared to children and adults. Whether you are a serious music student or simply a music lover, we provide a wide range of programs to meet your interests and schedule. Our faculty of accomplished performers and seasoned educators provide stimulating and innovative lessons.
Private & Semi-Private Instruction
10-week lessons available January 4–March 20, 2022
Private instruction consists of lessons where an individual student learns to play an instrument or to sing, developing technical skills and artistic abilities through one-on-one instruction. Semi-private lessons are for two students with one instructor. Students must play the same instrument at the same level. Instruction is available in the following instruments:
Voice – Bass (upright & electric) – Cello – Clarinet – Drums – Flute – Guitar (acoustic & electric) – Music Theory – Piano – Saxophone – Violin
Attendance Policy
Lessons missed by a teacher will be made up. Lessons missed by a student with 24 hours notice may be made up at the discretion of the teacher, for a maximum of one missed lesson.
Recitals
Private music students’ accomplishments are showcased in our winter and spring recitals. This offers all students the opportunity to perform for family and friends in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Private Lesson Fees
Private lessons are available for 30, 45, or 60 minutes and run for 10 weeks. Payment plan available.
30-minute lesson
Members: $350
Community: $380
45-minute lesson
Members: $455
Community: $505
60-minute lesson
Members: $525
Community: $610
Semi-Private Lesson Fees
Semi-Private lessons are available for 30, 45, or 60 minutes and run for 10 weeks. The school does not provide a partner for semi-private lessons.
30-minute lesson
Members: $285
Community: $325
45-minute lesson
Members: $340
Community: $390
60-minute lesson
Members: $375
Community: $440
All music lessons require a $20 insurance fee for Community.
Group Music Instruction
10-week classes begin Saturday, January 8, 2022
10 Saturdays – January 8, 15, 22, 29, February 5, 12, 19, March 5, 12, 19
Group lessons provide quality instruction in an affordable group setting (5-8 students). Not all classes are offered every session.
Creative Violin 1
A creative class that is 50% arts and crafts, 50% violin, and 100% fun! Students and families begin the semester by constructing a life-size violin out of cardboard. In the process, students learn the parts of the violin, how to properly care for and hold the violin, and take ownership of the instrument. In the second part of the semester, students “graduate” from a cardboard violin to a real, working violin; students learn the basics of posture, bow hold, pizzicato (plucking), arco (playing with the bow), playing on open strings, and music literacy. Student violins are provided through the Tom Freston Instrument Library; students are encouraged to take their instruments home to practice.
w/parent/caregiver
Ages 4&5
10-10:45 am
Beginning Violin 1
A small-group class that teaches the basics of violin performance and music literacy. Students will learn the parts of the instrument, how to hold the instrument and bow, how to play various bowing patterns on open strings, and begin to play with fingers on the fingerboard. By the end of the semester, students will be comfortable playing simple scales and songs on the violin. Student violins are provided through the Tom Freston Instrument Library; students are expected to take their instruments home to practice between classes.
Ages 6-10
11 am-noon
Creative Piano
A small-group class taught in our keyboard lab that teaches the basics of keyboard performance and music literacy. Students participate in age-appropriate games, activities, and simple songs that emphasize the fundamentals of playing piano. Students are encouraged to keep a piano or small keyboard at home for athome practice.
Ages 4&5
9-9:45 am
11-11:45 am
Beginning Piano
A small-group class taught in our keyboard lab that teaches the basics of keyboard performance and music literacy including rhythm, pitch, tempo, and dynamics. By the end the semester, students will be comfortable playing simple songs on the piano. Many students take Beginning Piano for two or more semesters before enrolling in private lessons. Students are encouraged to keep a piano or small keyboard at home for at-home practice.
Ages 6-8
10-11 am
12-1 pm
Beginning Guitar 1
A small-group glass that teaches the basics of guitar performance. Topics include tuning, chords, strumming patterns, and guitar care. By the end of the semester, students will be comfortable playing songs with simple chord changes on the guitar. Student guitars are provided through the Tom Freston Instrument Library; students are expected to take their instruments home to practice between classes.
Ages 7-10
11 am-noon
Beginner Guitar 2
Prerequisite: Beginning Guitar 1
A small-group class that continues the skills and techniques introduced in Beginning Guitar 1. By the end of the semester, students will gain increased confidence and expand their repertoire. Student guitars are provided through the Tom Freston Instrument Library; students are expected to take their instruments home to practice between classes. After completing Beginning Guitar 2, students are encouraged to enroll in private lessons.
Ages 7-12
12-1 pm
Creative Violin 2
w/ parent/caregiver
Creative Violin 2 continues the skills and techniques introduced in Creative Violin 1. Through exercises, games, and activities, students continue to develop their violin technique while learning the basics of music literacy, including rhythm, pitch, tempo, and dynamics. Student violins are provided through the Tom Freston Instrument Library; students are welcome to take their instruments home to practice. After completing Creative Violin 2, students are encouraged to enroll in private lessons.
Ages 4 & 5
10-10:45 am
Pre-requisite:
Creative Violin 1
Beginning Violin 2
A small-group class that continues the skills, technique introduced in Beginning Violin 1. Students will gain increased confidence and expand their repertoire. Student violins are provided through the Tom Freston Instrument Library; students are expected to take their instruments home to practice between classes. After completing Beginning Violin 2, students are encouraged to enroll in private lessons.
Ages 6-10
12-1 pm
Pre-requisite:
Beginning Violin 1
Group Class Policies
Face masks and social distancing protocols must be adhered to by all participants.
There are no refunds or make-ups for student absences. In the event that an instructor is unable to teach a class, when possible, a substitute instructor will be supplied and the class will be held. If a substitute cannot be secured, the class will be made up on the earliest date possible.
Scholarships
The Harriet and Robert Heilbrunn and Music for Youth Scholarship Funds provide a limited amount of partial and full scholarships for music lessons for students who qualify for financial assistance. To apply for a scholarship, please call (718) 792-1800, ext. 236.
Free Instrument Loans
The Tom Freston Instrument Lending Library
We are delighted to offer instruments available for loan, free of charge, for use during lessons at Bronx House and practice at home.
Group Instruction Fees
Members: $235
Community: $280, plus $20 insurance fee
The Dance Studio at Bronx House
10-week classes begin Saturday, January 8, 2022
10 Saturdays – January 8, 15, 22, 29, February 5, 12, 19, March 5, 12, 19
Welcome to The Dance Studio at Bronx House, where we offer a variety of dance classes that provide a strong foundation in diverse dance styles to children and youth of different ages and abilities. Our comprehensive and sequential approach fosters technique, artistry, and healthy exercise while our professional faculty provide individual attention in small class settings. Whether you are a first-time student interested in a recreational activity or one who is considering dance as a profession, we have a class for you.
Classes for Children and Youth
Our school-year schedule consists of three 10-week semesters. Check the office or website for our current schedule. Not all classes are offered every semester.
Our studio offers classes for youth in the following styles: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, as well as a comprehensive
Pre-School Dance program for ages 1.5-5. All students must be the minimum age by the first lesson of the session.
Recitals
Dance students’ accomplishments are showcased in our end-of-semester recitals. These offer all students the opportunity to perform for friends and family in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Dress Code
The Dance Studio at Bronx House has a required uniform to help students learn discipline, structure, and respect for themselves and their art form, and to help keep the attention on the instruction. All classes have their own designated color to highlight students’ accomplishments as they progress from one level to another.
Centre Stage Boutique, located at 504 Fifth Avenue in Pelham (914) 738-9600 is a designated clothing and shoe provider for The Dance Studio at Bronx House, offering high quality at affordable prices. Learn more about proper attire for each class.
Creative Movement
w/parent or caregiver
A joyful, fun class that encourages self-discipline, independence, and self-confidence in young children, while teaching balance, coordination, and rhythm through the use of movement games, song, and dance.
Ages 1.5-3
9-9:45 am
Creative Ballet
Must be 3 years old by first lesson of session
An exciting introduction to the world of ballet designed especially for the preschool child, this class helps the young student increase their body awareness, heighten their coordination, and begin to learn basic ballet steps and French terminology all while having fun. Emphasis is placed on developing a good foundation, increasing attention span, listening skills, and instilling a love for dance.
Ages 3 & 4
9-9:45 am
Pre-Ballet w/Tap
Must be 4 years old by first lesson of session
Students in this combination class will develop coordination, flexibility, rhythm, and body awareness through an introduction to two different sets of dance skills – beginner ballet and basic tap techniqueallowing children to experience both styles. The structure of a dance class will be introduced, and emphasis is placed on increasing attention span, adopting class courtesies such as taking turns, raising hands, respecting personal space, listening and instilling a love for dance.
Ages 4 & 5
10-11 am or 12-1 pm
Ballet Beginnings
This class follows the format of a typical ballet class and includes basic barre exercises, center practice, and learning combinations while building strength, proper alignment, and agility. Students begin learning basic French terms and proper technique. Emphasis is placed on developing a good foundation, increasing attention span, and instilling a love for dance. Students begin to learn personal responsibility for their own supplies (i.e. shoes, tights, hair supplies etc.) Increases the number of steps, terms, strength, and flexibility as compared to Pre-Ballet.
Ages 5 & 6
10-11 am
Ballet Level A
New students ages 12 and up with permission of director. In this class there will be an increased focus on body placement; longer combinations, musicality, and technique will be emphasized. Dancers at this level will be encouraged to increase their number of ballet classes per week to two by age 10, to develop the strength necessary to continue on to the pre-pointe level. It is common to spend 2 years at this level, as more advanced technique and individualized corrections will be standard in the class, as well as a continuance of perfecting steps and technique.
Ages 8 & up
11am-noon
Pre-requisite: at least one full year of Intro to Classical Ballet and/or permission of instructor
Tap 1
Must be 6 years old by first lesson of session. Students will build a fundamental knowledge of tap dance through learning a repertoire of tap dance steps and begin combining these steps to create longer rhythms. Students will learn about rhythm (syncopation), proper use of the foot, weight change, posture, physical conditioning and development of fine motor skills. Students will be challenged through an emphasis on sound clarity, rhythm patterns and performance style.
Ages 6-11
11 am-noon
Contemporary Dance 1
Modern/Contemporary classes teach the body to move as an expressive tool, using body, spatial and sensory awareness in exploring movement. Concepts such as breath, floor work, strength, flexibility, weight, and energy are used to create unique combinations and develop artistic and technical performance.
Ages 6-11
1:30-2:30 pm
Intro to Classical Ballet
Learn the basics of classical ballet in a welcoming, encouraging environment. Students will develop technique, musicality and grace while progressing at a steady pace over the session. This class follows the format of a typical ballet class and includes basic barre exercises, center practice, and learning combinations while building strength, proper alignment, and agility. Students learn basic French terms and proper stretching technique. Emphasis is placed on developing a good foundation, increasing attention span, and instilling a love for dance. Students begin to learn personal responsibility for their own supplies (i.e. shoes, tights, hair supplies etc.) Increases the number of steps, terms, strength, and flexibility as compared to Ballet Beginnings. It is common to spend 2 years at this level, as more advanced technique and individualized corrections will be standard in the class, as well as a continuance of perfecting steps and technique.
Ages 6-11
12-1 pm
Hip Hop 1
In both Hip Hop 1 & 2, these upbeat and energetic classes students develop rhythm, coordination and self-expression using the latest styles of street dancing, breaking, popping, and locking to today’s popular music. Students will be encouraged to step outside of the box by bringing their own individual style and personality to the movements. As Hip Hop dance requires students to have the strength and stamina to successfully perform moves, classes include upper and lower body conditioning as well as a rigorous warm-up to help prepare students for more intense movements.
Ages 6-11
1-2 pm
Hip Hop 2
Ages 12 & up
2-3 pm
The Dance Studio Fees
Preschool thru age 17
Per Semester
Members: $175
Community: $225
- Plus $20 insurance fee for community
- There will be a $25 late fee for participants who register on or after the first day of classes
- Partial scholarships are available for those who qualify
- 10% Multi-Class or Sibling/Parent Discounts available
- Costume fees may apply for Spring Semester Recital
Drama
10-week classes begin Saturday, January 8, 2022
10 Saturdays – January 8, 15, 22, 29, February 5, 12, 19, March 5, 12, 19
Intro to Acting I
Ages 6-11
Through the use of theater games and improvisation techniques, Introduction to Acting I introduces young students to the basics of acting: Concentration, imagination, and spontaneous expression. Through a sense of fun and exploring, children are encouraged to refine their listening skills and collaborate with one another.
Intro to Acting II
Ages 12+
In addition to the goals stated in Introduction to Acting I, in Introduction to Acting II students will begin to explore the truthful use of self in imaginary circumstances. Beginning with exercises for relaxation, concentration, and sensitivity to other actors, techniques for moment-to-moment expression will be explored.
Drama Fees
Members: $175
Community: $225, plus $20 insurance fee
Faculty
Anne Cohen
Director of Performing Arts
Bronx House is proud to announce the appointment of Anne Cohen as our new Performing Arts Director. A native of New York, Anne most recently served as the founding Director of Music at WHIN Music Community Charter School, where she oversaw a comprehensive orchestral and vocal music program, led a team of Teaching Artists and served on the School Leadership Team. Anne is a nationally recognized workshop clinician and guest conductor and has worked with groups including Kodaly Organization of New York, New York State School Music Association, Harmony Program, and Organization at Kodaly Educators. Awards and honors include a PRESTO grant through El Sistema USA, OAKE’s Outstanding Emerging Educator, Liz Swados Inspiration Grant honorable mention, and serving as past president of the Kodaly Organization of New York. Anne holds a MA in music and music education from Columbia University Teachers college, a BM in music education from Bucknell University, an Advanced Certification in Educational Leadership from Stony Brook University, and certification in nonprofit management from Duke University.
Adelle Blauser
Voice/Piano/Guitar
As a young musician, Adelle Blauser was always terrified of singing in public but soon got over that fear by learning to accompany herself on guitar and piano. She then went on to receive her undergraduate degree in classical voice performance at Bowling Green State University, and her master’s degree in musical theatre voice performance from New York University. As a singer, she has performed in numerous operatic and theatrical productions across the US but feels most “at home” singing in jazz and pop bands. While at NYU, she also completed an advanced certificate in vocal pedagogy, discovering her passion for helping young musicians find their own artistic individuality while providing them with the technical proficiency to do so. She is an active singer-songwriter and music teacher throughout the New York City area.
Joan Bradford
Dance Instructor
A Bronx-based choreographer, dancer, teaching artist, and arts administrator. Holding her BFA in Dance and minor in Theatre from LIU, Joan’s choreographic highlights include a residency with Lost Dog Dance Theatre in Lewes, England, and a recent residency through the Dance Your Future: Artist & Mentor Collaborative Residency through Pepatián & BAAD! under the mentorship of Alexandra Beller & Sydnie L. Mosely. Currently, Joan works as a teaching artist with The Bronx House, a dance company director with Coalition for Hispanic Family Services’ Arts & Literacy, a dancer and rehearsal director with Sydnie L. Mosley Dances, and a producer with WAXworks.
Sean Britt
Guitar
In 2013, Massachusetts native Sean Britt became the first guitarist in the Brubeck Institute fellowship program at the University of the Pacific. He was a member of the Brubeck Institute Jazz Quintet (BIJQ), which Downbeat Magazine named the best undergraduate jazz combo in their Student Awards Poll in 2016. While in the BIJQ he performed with visiting artists including Christian McBride, Stefon Harris, and Chris and Darius Brubeck among others. Britt transferred to The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York City where he received his BFA in Jazz Studies. He went on to receive a Master of Music degree from the Manhattan School of Music, class of 2019. Sean currently resides in New York City where he composes, performs, and teaches privately.
Daniel Fernandez
Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute
MM, Woodwind Performance, California State University at Fullerton; BM University of Texas at El Paso (Bachelor of Music). A seasoned performer and teacher, Danny regularly performs and teaches on saxophone, clarinet, and flute in classical, jazz, and Latin styles. Before moving to NYC, he was the founder and director of Fuego Latino, a Cuban Salsa band that performed with Son Como Son, Tito Puente Jr., and Ocho y Mas. As a classical player Danny has performed with the Orange County Wind Symphony, Claremont Winds, and more. He has served as a band director for several intermediate and high school programs; been an adjudicator for the Texas Music Educators Association and has taught students from beginner to university level.
Hermira Gjoni
Piano
Degrees from the National Conservatory of Music and Liceu Artistik School of Music in Tirana, Albania. In Tirana 1958-1993: Opera Concert Master, Piano Master for State Opera, a Piano teacher at Tirana School of Music. Accompanist for Placido Domingo, International Vocal Competition, Paris.
Kim Johnson, BA Theater
Dance Instructor
Northwestern University; extensive dance training including a merit scholarship with Alvin Ailey School. Kim has worked in regional, stock theaters, and on Off-Broadway dancing, singing and acting, directing, and choreographing. For nine years she was the Artistic Director of ARTISTS IN SEARCH OF …, a NYC performing arts company. Teaching work includes Horace Mann, The Center for Arts Education, CommunityWorks, and the Brooklyn Academy of Music. She is currently a teaching artist for Alvin Ailey American Dance and Henry Street Settlement/Abrons Arts Center.
Kathryn Lam
Violin
Kathryn Lam is a violinist who received her Bachelor’s in Music Education at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music. She has performed in the pit of numerous musicals, operas, and ballets during her musical career, and organized a solo recital while at Jacobs. Kathryn has taught students from ages K-12 and has led ensembles from beginner to advanced level. She has always been passionate about education in music, and strives to become the best teacher she possibly can be!
Diego Maldonado
Percussion
BFA CUNY, Magna Cum Laude, Jazz Performance; Advanced Music Certificate, The Collective School of Music. Originally from Venezuela, Diego is a professional jazz drummer and educator. Diego has studied with players such as Kim Plainfield, Peter Retzlaff, Adam Cruz, Mark Ferber, Kendrick Scott, and the arranger and piano player Mike Holober. In Venezuela, Diego toured and recorded with many jazz artists and was the head of the Jazz Percussion department at the jazz academy Taller de Jazz de Caracas for five years.
Sasha Meyer-Porco
Dance Instructor
Sasha has been dancing since the age of six, and at the age of eight began assisting in classes at the Rolynn Dance Studio under the auspices of her mom, faculty member Marci Meyer. She has previously taught and choreographed at the Academy of Dance Arts and Miss Andrea’s Dance Studio.
Anthony Papandrea
Violin
Following studies with Robert Lipsett and Victor Danchenko, violinist Anthony Papandrea is excited to bring his passion for the violin & teaching to Bronx House. An eclectic violinist, Anthony has not only played in the Boston Philharmonic, and has appeared as a soloist with The New Bedford Symphony, he has also collaborated with Gloria Estefan and Carlos Santana at the Latin Grammys and appeared in the major motion picture, August Rush. In Los Angeles, Anthony has worked at the Capitol Records building for many studio sessions, and in his free time studied Improv at the Groundlings, of which he is a graduate. A native of Connecticut, Anthony began violin in Branford Public schools and enjoys playing chamber music and giving outreach concerts in the area.
Joao Pedrosa
Piano, Guitar
Joao Paulo Pedrosa is a Guitarist and Music Teacher with over fifteen years of experience performing and teaching music. Joao likes to teach music engagingly, making sure that students feel excited about the content, and adapting his lessons accordingly to the needs, interests, and goals of each student. Joao graduated from Berklee College of Music with a Bachelor’s Degree in Performance.
Stephen Schwartz
Voice, Piano, Guitar
MM Voice, Manhattan School of Music; BA cum laude Music, Cortland State University; Opera Engagements: Koblenz Opernhaus (Germany), Lobero Theater (Santa Barbara), Nederlands Reisopera (Holland), Bachzaal (Amsterdam); music teacher, choir director, International School of Amsterdam, 1995-1999.
Mariya Spector
Piano
Studied in Moscow at the Stasov School of Music and Moscow Musical College, later earning her M.A. in Music Education at CUNY Lehman College. A creative and versatile music teacher, Mariya brings a special knowledge of Music History and Musical Genres. She is skilled in the Dalcroze and Kodaly methods of musical education.
Brian Walsh
Piano/Vocal Instructor
Brian is a piano/vocal instructor with over a decade of professional experience, most notably as a music director, conductor, live performer, and private instructor. His foundation begins with over 30 years of classically-trained piano since the age of four and more than 20 years of voice. Brian has taught students across a wide range of ages and levels, including the Princeton University Collegiate Summer Theater program and The Ritz Theatre Children’s Summer program. As a former Nashville-based national touring musician, Brian performed with major US award-winning artists across many genres and for notable events hosted by individuals throughout the sports and entertainment industries.
Brian is currently attending the Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College pursuing a Bachelor’s of Music degree in Music Education. As a teacher, he brings his enthusiasm and passion for music in an effort to create a stimulating and individualized learning environment.
Shantel Williams
Piano & Voice
Shantel Williams is a voice, beginner piano, and theory teacher from Queens NY. She has taught private and group voice lessons as well as piano lessons throughout NYC to various ages and skill levels. She specializes in working with youth with developmental and behavioral needs and has many years of experience working with youth along the spectrum. She enjoys teaching the fundamentals of music to the beginner, intermediate and advanced voice students and her philosophy on music is Human first. She enjoys exposing youth and others to genres of music that they may not ordinarily hear and study but feels comfortable teaching popular genres of music. Shantel specializes in building a solid foundation in music and focuses on musicianship, vocal technique, comfort on stage, character development, and gears learning to the individual needs of the student. She has experience preparing students for NYSSMA, performances, juries, and auditions. As a soloist, she has performed roles such as Fiordiligi, Cio-Cio San, and Liu. Shantel also enjoys ensemble works and has recorded works such as André Previn’s, Four Songs, and Schubert’s Shepherd on the Rock. Shantel holds a Bachelor of Music from Hunter College and an Artist Diploma and Masters of Music from the Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College.
Thanh Woods
Dance Instructor
Thanh Woods writes, “My passion has always been in dancing. Dance has helped me to build positive habits and created many great opportunities for me. I am a student of my craft and life, so my goal is to continue to learn and give back to my students. As a dance instructor, my goal is to create a positive and fun learning environment for all families. My students will be educated on different types of dance, getting familiar with different types of movements, and expressing themselves through creativity; enjoying our time learning from each other, and learning about self-expression and communication. I hope to bring joy and happiness to all families while we lift our mind, body, and spirit altogether.”
Sam Zagnit
Violin, Cello, Bass
A versatile player and musician, Sam Zagnit is a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied with Orin O’Brien and David Grossman. He recently completed his graduate studies at the Yale School of Music, with Don Palma. Sam is dedicated to performing works by living composers, and creating a more inclusive environment in every musical context. Sam is co-founder and administrator for Bass Players for Black Composers, a collective of bassists, composers, and patrons devoted to expanding the solo bass repertoire with works by BIPOC composers.
In March 2019, he served as Acting Associate Principal Bass for the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, led by Mattias Pintscher, and recently returned to play with LACO accompanying his former teacher, David Grossman, in the west coast premiere of Dark with Excessive Bright, by Missy Mazolli in November 2019, led by Jaime Martín.
As an educator, Sam worked in the New Haven Public School System through the Music in Schools Initiative as part of the Yale School of Music and is dedicated to providing equitable and comprehensive music education in the tri-state area.
Performing Arts Inquiry Form
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