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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Welcome to MCMC/Mission Statement ............................................................................3
Staff Directory/Location Information ...................................................................................4
Policies and Information ..................................................................................................5
Registration ...................................................................................................................5
Billing Policy .................................................................................................................5
Financial Aid .................................................................................................................5
Attendance Policy ..........................................................................................................6
Withdrawal Policy .........................................................................................................6
School Closing ..............................................................................................................6
Media Release ..............................................................................................................6
Music Together Policy .....................................................................................................7
Programs and Opportunities
Performance Opportunities ...............................................................................................8
Volunteer Opportunities ...................................................................................................9
Donation Information.......................................................................................................10
Program Listing ..............................................................................................................11
Early Childhood Classes ..............................................................................................11
Private Lessons ...........................................................................................................11
Classes and Ensembles................................................................................................12
Workshops ...............................................................................................................12
Summer Program Listing ...............................................................................................13
Adult Program Listing ...................................................................................................15
Parent Resources
Resources/Instrument Rentals ............................................................................................17
Jackrabbit Customer Portal Information ................................................................................18
Gift Certificate Information ...............................................................................................20
Parent’s Guide to Musical Notation ...................................................................................21
Glossary of Musical Terms ...............................................................................................26
Donation Form ...............................................................................................................29
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Welcome! Greetings to new and returning students of music and families. At
Middlebury Community Music Center (MCMC), we are thrilled to guide you on your path of
musical learning. MCMC is a non-profit organization committed to dynamic and quality
music education for all. Our faculty is a talented and dedicated team of musicians, eager to
share our love of music with students of all ages. We offer private lessons, group classes,
performances, workshops, and camps - all to round out a complete music education for all
who seek it.
MCMC offers programming to budding musicians of all ages, from infants through
senior citizens. Under one roof, MCMC is a community immersed in music. By crossing
paths with each other week to week, our community grows, fostering possibilities for
collaboration. Our interdisciplinary experiences give us opportunities to identify with others
with similar interests from a variety of backgrounds. Through our work with music - in one-onone, and in group settings - we gain meaningful and enriching ways to give back to our
community, and a focal point for our ongoing artistic growth. We can't wait to hear you
grow! Thank you for being an essential part of MCMC.
Musically Yours,
Sadie Brightman
Founder, Executive Director
MCMC is dedicated to providing holistic
musical education for community members
of all ages through excellence in music
instruction, community collaboration and
comprehensive programming in the
musical arts.
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Sadie Brightman
Founder, Executive Director
[email protected]
(802) 989-7538
Molly McEachen
Administrative Coordinator, Early Childhood Instructor
[email protected]
(802) 989-7538
Office Hours: M-Th 10:00am-5:00pm
If no one is in the office to answer your questions please leave us a note in the drop box located
outside the office or call us during office hours at: 802-989-7538. We’ll contact you as soon as we
can. Thank you!
Location Information
Middlebury Community Music Center is located at:
6 Main Street Middlebury, VT 05753
Location Description:
Our home in the 1817 Middlebury
Community House, donated to the
community of Middlebury in 1932, inspires
beauty at every turn. Its initial donation by
Jessica Stewart Swift and Phillip Battell
Stewart was intended to educationally and
recreationally better the people of
Middlebury. We are conveniently located on
Main Street with easy walking access to
local businesses, public transportation,
restaurants and shops. We are located
across from the Town Green, between the
Congregational Church and the Post Office,
on the corner of Main and Exchange.
Parking: 2 hour parking is available on both sides of Main Street and in front of MCMC. Longer
parking hours are available on North Pleasant Street next to the Congregational Church.
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Registration:
Registration can be completed online with our web registration form, located at
www.mcmcvt.org/registration.
If you have questions or are still considering which instrument or program to sign up for, please
complete the pre-registration form at http://www.mcmcvt.org/preregistration-form.html or contact the
office at (802) 989-7538 or [email protected].
Billing Policy:
A one-time registration fee of $25 per student, maximum $40 per family, is due upon registration.
Private lessons follow a 34-week academic year. Annual tuition is paid in 10 equal installments on the
15th of the month, August through May (not including the summer sessions).
Tuition rates vary depending on teacher and length of lesson.
Private lessons can be
 30-min: recommended for beginners and young students
 45-min: recommended for advancing students and adults
 1-hour: for advanced students, by teacher recommendation
Private Lessons:
Tuition payments are processed by MCMC on the 15th of each month via your preferred debit or
credit card. Annual tuition may also be paid in full if you prefer.
Private lesson tuition may be prorated for any start date throughout the year. The current tuition due
upon enrollment will be calculated according to the number of weeks remaining for the year.
Group Classes:
Group class tuition is due in full upon registration and is non-refundable once the session begins.
Sessions are generally 10-weeks in length, with classes meeting once a week. Tuition may be
prorated for students joining mid-session.
Any changes to your credit card or debit card must be received by the 10th of the month to ensure
timely processing. If your credit card is declined, the issue must be resolved and payment received by
the end of the current month to continue in the program. A $25 charge will be assessed for each
declined payment.
MCMC Financial Aid Request:
Part of Middlebury Community Music Center's mission is to support music education for all. MCMC
seeks to enable students of all financial means to begin or further their music education. A limited
amount of funding is available for financial aid. Students with a demonstrated financial need may
apply for financial aid for private lessons or group classes, based on the availability of funds. A
Financial Aid Request Form is located on the Financial Aid page of our website
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
(http://www.mcmcvt.org/financial-aid). Once a form has been submitted, our office will contact you
in order to determine an appropriate payment plan.
To contribute to our financial aid fund, please complete the enclosed donation form, or mail checks to
6 Main St. Middlebury, VT 05753. Thank you for your support!
Attendance Policy:
Regular attendance is important to productive music learning at MCMC.
Private lessons missed due to teacher absence are rescheduled at the earliest date possible. If the
instructor is not able to make up the missed lesson by the end of the term, MCMC may offer a lesson
with a substitute teacher, or if you prefer, a credit to the student’s account of 80% of the lesson rate.
The remaining 20% is withheld to cover administrative expenses.
Private Lessons Missed Due To Student Absence:
MCMC offers one make-up lesson per year to students who notify MCMC at least 24 hours in
advance of an absence. Make-up lessons can be scheduled at a mutually agreed upon time during the
term, or at the end of the school year in the make-up period. As a courtesy to instructors, students are
asked to notify the school or their instructor directly if they expect to be absent.
Withdrawals:
Private Lessons - We strongly encourage students to enroll in lessons for the full year and beyond!
Music learning is a long term endeavor that evolves over time. If lessons must be discontinued, a
withdrawal form (which can be accessed on the “MCMC Policies and Info” page of our website –
www.mcmcvt.org) must be completed two weeks prior to the effective date. Verbal notification or not
attending a class does not constitute a withdrawal. A withdrawal fee, equal to one additional tuition
installment, is assessed when a student withdraws from private lessons.
Group Classes - No tuition refunds are given for class withdrawals after the start of the session.
School Closings Policy:
When there is a school closing due to weather, MCMC follows Middlebury public school closings.
MCMC students (and/or parents) will be notified of MCMC school closings on:
 Homepage of the MCMC website
 MCMC Facebook Page
 An email will be sent to all currently enrolled students through our mailing list. To ensure you
receive these notices please make sure not to unsubscribe from our school mailings.
Missed lessons and classes will be scheduled to the greatest extent possible.
Media Release:
From time to time MCMC may use photographs, video, and/or audio recordings of students’ classes,
lessons, and performances in print, email, and/or web applications in furtherance of our mission.
Please contact us via email ([email protected]) or call the office at 802-989-7538 if this presents an
obstacle for you.
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Tuition:
Full tuition ($165/$115 siblings) plus the non-refundable registration fee of $25 (maximum $40 per
family) is due at the time of registration. The registration fee applies to all MCMC programming,
including Music Together.
Withdrawals:
No tuition refunds are given for class withdrawals after the start of the session. Please note that nonattendance does not constitute a withdrawal from class. We are not able to offer tuition refunds unless
we are informed of your intent to withdraw prior to the first class.
Make-ups:
If you miss your regularly scheduled Music Together class for any reason, you may reschedule up to 2
make-up classes per session in another class on a first-come, first-served, open-spot basis. To schedule
a make-up class, contact [email protected] as soon as you know you are going to miss a class. Makeups must be taken during the current session and cannot be carried over. Beware of the end-of-session
rush! We appreciate you scheduling your make-ups as early as possible. If you know you will not be
attending a previously scheduled make-up class, please let us know so the spot becomes available for
another family.
Financial Aid:
Part of Middlebury Community Music Center's mission is to support music education for all. MCMC
seeks to enable students of all financial means to begin or further their music education. A limited
amount of funding is available for financial aid. Students with a demonstrated financial need may
apply for financial aid for private lessons or group classes, based on the availability of funds. A
Financial Aid Request Form is located on the Financial Aid page of our website
(http://www.mcmcvt.org/financial-aid). Once a form has been submitted, our office will contact you
in order to determine an appropriate payment plan.
To contribute to our financial aid fund, please complete the enclosed donation form, or mail checks to
6 Main St. Middlebury, VT 05753. Thank you for your support!
Media Release:
From time to time MCMC may use photographs, video, and/or audio recordings of students’ classes,
lessons, and performances in print, email, and/or web applications in furtherance of our mission.
Please contact us via email ([email protected]) or call the office at 802-989-7538 if this presents an
obstacle for you.
Licensing:
Music Together art & logo design © 1992-2014 Music Together LLC. Music Together is a registered
trademark. Middlebury Community Music Center is licensed by Music Together LLC. For more
locations: www.musictogether.com - (800) 728-2692
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MCMC offers regular performance opportunities to students of all ages and levels. Performance is a
key aspect of completing the cycle of musical learning. We endorse performing as a courageous and
valuable undertaking, and support students in taking that bold step into public. Our private lesson
instructors prepare students for these opportunities with care and compassion. Participation is not
mandatory, but strongly encouraged at any level!
MCMC’s monthly Performance Salons occur at 6pm on the second Wednesday of each month.
Performance Salons give students from a variety of studios a chance to perform pieces they have been
studying for family and friends in an intimate and supportive setting. Outreach Concerts occur
throughout the year in venues all over town. These concerts are uplifting opportunities to share our
music with our broader community. Please let us know if you’d like to help out, or if you have any new
locations to suggest! Additionally, some faculty members organize Studio Recitals held at MCMC or
other locations in town. Finally, our end of year concert at the Town Hall Theater is a showcase for
teacher-nominated performers to take the stage. This event is an annual benefit to support our
scholarship fund.
Mark your Calendar!
Kick-0ff! Salon at American Flatbread & Benefit Bake for
MCMC
Wed, Oct 12th: Food Service from 5-9pm, Salon at
6pm.
Salon - November
Wed, Nov 9th, 6pm
Winter Outreach Concert at Elderly Services
Sat, Dec 10th, 1pm
Salon - December
Wed, Dec 14th, 6pm
Salon - January
Wed, Jan 11, 6pm
Salon - February
Wed, Feb 8th, 6pm
Salon - March
Wed, March 8th, 6pm
Salon - April
Wed, April 12th, 6pm
Salon - May
Wed, May, 10th, 6pm
Spring Outreach Concert at Elderly Services
Sat, May 20th, 1pm
Town Hall Theater Final Recital
Sunday, June 18th, 1pm reception, 2pm concert
Eastview at Middlebury Outreach Concerts
TBD
Outreach Performance Venues:
American Flatbread - Middlebury Hearth
137 Maple St, Middlebury, VT 05753
(in the Marbleworks parking lot)
(802) 388-3300
Eastview at Middlebury
100 Eastview Terrace, Middlebury, VT 05753
(802) 388-0303
Town Hall Theater
68 S Pleasant St, Middlebury, VT 05753
(802) 382-9222
Elderly Services
112 Exchange St, Middlebury, VT 05753
(802) 388-3983
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
There are many opportunities for volunteering at MCMC. Please contact [email protected] for more
information about getting involved. Thank you!
Opportunities:
Event Usher/Greeter: MCMC is looking for volunteers to greet and usher audiences and guests at
MCMC events, concerts and recitals.
Production Assistance at Salons: Parent volunteers NEEDED! On the second Wednesday of every
month students from a variety of studios gather in MCMC's salon to perform pieces they have been
studying in their lessons. MCMC would appreciate volunteers to help set up chairs before the salon,
coordinate light snacks for reception, be a backstage assistant during the salon, help break down
chairs and/or clean up at the end of the salon.
Weekly Greeter: MCMC is looking for someone to be a greeter in the downstairs foyer of the music
center M-F, 3-6pm (or portions of that time frame). Responsibilities/qualities include: A friendly
demeanor, directing students to the appropriate classroom, and letting students know which faculty
member is teaching that day.
Afterschool Mentor: MCMC would appreciate an adult (or a high school or college student) present
during the “after-school rush” M-F, 3-6pm (or portions of that time frame) to oversee the snack station
and assist with homework as needed.
MCMC Ambassador at Events: At events such as the Middlebury Farmer's Market, Make Music Day
or the Summer Music Series, MCMC would appreciate a volunteer to sit at our booth (or table) to
answer questions, oversee crafts and encourage donations.
Audio Tech Person (and Videographer): MCMC is looking for a volunteer to run sound or take
professional-level videos of MCMC events, recitals and concerts.
Accompaniment: If you are skilled and experienced at the piano, please contact Molly
([email protected]) to ask about volunteer accompaniment opportunities at MCMC lessons or events.
Household Organizer: We are looking for a household organizer to carry out organizational projects
as needed (such as closet and dresser organization).
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Thank you for your support!
How You Can Help:
Middlebury Community Music Center is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. By supporting MCMC,
you are helping to make quality music instruction available to all in our community. We believe in the
power of music to transform individuals and unite our community. Thank you for helping to make this
happen! You can conveniently and securely donate via our website (mcmcvt.org), or checks can be
mailed to 6 Main Street, Middlebury, VT 05753.
Funding Sources:
We welcome private and corporate donations earmarked for general funding of our school or
earmarked for students requiring financial assistance for their music education. Financial aid pays for
classes and private lessons and is made possible by donations from private and corporate sponsors
seeking to support music education programming in Addison County.
We appreciate your contribution to MCMC’s fundraising efforts.
Thank you for your support!
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
For a lifetime of music making – birth and up!
Please check our website for class schedules and tuition information.
Early Childhood Classes
Music Together®
(Ages 0-4) We are happy to provide our community with the nationally recognized, research based
Music Together program. The program is for children from birth up to kindergarten with their parents
and caregivers. Classes are designed to be mixed ages, participatory, fun, and a wonderful way to
bond with your child(ren). Music Together classes provide a rich musical experience for our children in
class and at home, giving us tools in day to day parenting, and opening up a lifetime of music
making! This program begins the musical journey at MCMC.
Music Discoveries for Preschoolers
(Ages 3-5) Music Discoveries is an afternoon drop-off music and movement class. This class is a fun
and engaging introduction to the principles of music. We will dance, sing, play music games, and
have a lot of fun as we learn concepts pertaining to rhythm, melody and form. Our repertoire will
include children’s songs from around the world as well as old favorites.
This class is geared toward kids who are ready for fun and interactive musical experiences with others.
Musical Discoveries serves as a diverse, experiential preparation for private music lessons. Children
learn about music first through exploring large scale movement and singing. Later, they refine their
experiences and apply their knowledge to an instrument. The more early childhood exposure to these
ideas and skills the better, for future instrumental success! This is a next step program to follow Music
Together, or to be taken as a first music class experience.
Private Lessons
Private Lessons are offered in a 34-week academic year, plus a make-up period at the end of the year.
Lessons are tailored to meet the individual needs of each student. Our faculty are highly trained and
enthusiastic professionals who are devoted to their craft. Private Lessons are available as 30-mins, 45mins, or 60-mins. Lessons include regular performance opportunities at MCMC in our monthly salons,
outreach concerts in the community, and in studio recitals both at MCMC and in venues all over town.
Semi-private or duo lessons may be available upon request. MCMC’s private lesson program offers
individual instruction in the following instruments:
Accordion
Banjo
Bagpipes
Bass
Cello
Clarinet
Fiddle
Flute
French Horn
Guitar
Harmonica
Harp
Mandolin
Percussion
Piano
Recorder
Saxophone
Tin Whistle
Trombone
Trumpet
Ukulele
Viola
Violin
Voice
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Classes
Suzuki Violin Group Class
The Suzuki Method is based on the combination of a weekly private lesson and group classes. = The
group classes serve to motivate and inspire students of all levels and ages. The class curriculum focuses
on development and review of violin techniques relevant to students of all levels and ages. In the
group classes beginning students can play along with and model the more advanced players, inspiring
them to work towards a more advanced level of playing. Meanwhile, the more advanced students
work on leadership skills and ensemble playing. Faculty member, Emily Sunderman creates a
welcoming environment for all to participate and uses creative strategies to work on common skills
during the group classes including musical games and exercises.
Jazz Improvisation
In this small group class, we'll explore improvisational playing and group interplay, using jazz and
blues structures and forms to create spontaneous “compositions.” We’ll work with ways to use
fundamentals of rhythm, harmony and melody to improvise - challenging students both to create on their
native instruments, and provide supportive accompaniment on other “rhythm section” instruments - all
"without a net" of written parts or sheet music. Note: At least one year of prior private music lessons is
recommended.
Ensembles
Allegro Children’s Choruses
Allegro Children’s Choruses give kids the chance to discover their voices, to find joy in creating
something beautiful together with their friends and to learn the power and responsibility inherent in
being part of a team. As they tune to each other, learn to play rhythms together and compose songs
together, children develop a sense of individual value and the feeling of belonging to a group.
Musicality is developed through singing, which can be applied to the study of any instrument.
MCMC offers two children’s choirs of the following age groups:
Melody Chorus (K-3rd grade)
Rhythm Chorus (4th-6th grade)
Chamber Music
Always wanted to play with other instruments, or ready to take your private lessons to the next level? In
our chamber music program, players are matched based on their levels and schedules in various
combinations and will study a variety of genres based on the interest of the group. Groups are
coached weekly or upon arrangement by an appointed MCMC faculty member. Weekly rehearsal
space will be made available to each group at MCMC. All are encouraged to participate in a public
concert to conclude the session.
Acoustic Music Ensemble
Students young and old, with different levels of experience take private lessons on an acoustic
instrument (guitar, banjo, mandolin, accordion, or fiddle) along with monthly group classes. The
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individual lessons will focus on technique, tunes, and songs, which are applied and worked on as a
band in the monthly group classes. The group presents a concert for the public to finish the session. The
music is primarily - though not limited to - Bluegrass and American Roots music.
Workshops
Audition Preparation Workshop
The Middlebury Community Music Center (MCMC) hosts a series of workshops to help middle and
high students prepare for the Green Mountain Music Festival, District Five Auditions. The two-hour
workshops cover all the requirements of the audition including scales, sight-reading, and the audition
pieces. These instrumental workshops are offered for all instruments.
Summer Program Listing
Private Lessons
MCMC’s private lesson program offers individual instruction in the following instruments:
Accordion
Banjo
Bagpipes
Bass
Cello
Clarinet
Fiddle
Flute
French Horn
Guitar
Harmonica
Harp
Mandolin
Percussion
Piano
Recorder
Saxophone
Tin Whistle
Trombone
Trumpet
Ukulele
Viola
Violin
Voice
Day Camps
Musical Arts Camp
(Ages 6-9) Love to sing AND act? This musical theater camp is for you. This music-heavy theater arts
camp structured around a culminating performance for friends and family at the end of the week is
NOT to be missed. Children will participate in and perform a mini - musical. There will be chorus,
dance & movement, theater games and other musical activities sprinkled throughout the week. There
will also be opportunities for prop-making, and the creation of a simple and interesting set and
background.
Camp Adagio
(Ages 8 & up) Camp Adagio is a week long day program that ventures into the art of ensemble
playing. Campers are matched to form small groups that play together all week. Music selections are
made prior to the start of camp so that campers can practice their pieces ahead of time. During the
week of camp, we dive into putting all the pieces together for our final performance. ALL
instrumentalists are welcome and at least one prior year of lessons preferred.
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Music Discoveries Camp
(Ages 4-7) Music Discoveries Camp is all about exploration! Singing, games, movement to music, and
art projects will all be in full effect during this dynamic week. Campers will be introduced to
instruments, learn and refine basic music skills, practice pre-note reading activities, pair movements and
instrumentation with songs. This camp is perfect for young kids who have just begun music lessons, or
who are almost ready to begin. Camp will end with a presentation for parents and friends on the final
day.
Classes
Music Together®
(Ages 0-4) We are happy to provide our community with the nationally recognized, research based
Music Together program. The program is for children from birth up to kindergarten with their parents
and caregivers. Classes are designed to be mixed ages, participatory, fun, and a wonderful way to
bond with your child(ren). Music Together classes provide a rich musical experience for our children in
class and at home, giving us tools in day to day parenting, and opening up a lifetime of music
making! This begins the musical journey at MCMC.
Acoustic Music Summer Session
With 6 individual lessons and 3 group lessons, students of any age and ability progress on an
instrument of their choice, and experience an opportunity to play in a band! Part of each one-on-one
lesson focuses on a short list of tunes and songs to be performed with the group in a closing
concert. When the whole group meets, the arrangements allow for meaningful participation from each
musician, beginner, intermediate, or advanced.
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Adult Programs
Private Lessons
In addition to our ongoing weekly private lesson offerings:
Lessons for Busy Adults
Have a busy work or travel schedule but still want to study your instrument? This private lesson option
available to our adult students takes the regularity of weekly private lessons, but adds an element of
flexibility. Packages available for 8 private lessons.
MCMC’s private lesson program offers individual instruction in the following instruments:
Accordion
Banjo
Bagpipes
Bass
Cello
Clarinet
Fiddle
Flute
French Horn
Guitar
Harmonica
Harp
Mandolin
Percussion
Piano
Recorder
Saxophone
Tin Whistle
Trombone
Trumpet
Ukulele
Viola
Violin
Voice
Classes
Group Piano for Adults
Designed with the complete beginner in mind, this class will introduce you to the fundamentals of piano
playing in a group setting. Each class member will play at their own keyboard. Skills we will practice
include technique, sight-reading, playing by ear, theory and repertoire. If you have always wanted to
play the piano, this class offers a fun and supportive environment to learn something new! Students
should have access to a piano or weighted keyboard for practice outside of class; daily practice
ensures advancement in keyboard proficiency.
Jazz Improvisation
In this small group class, we explore improvisational playing and group interplay, using jazz and blues
structures and forms to create spontaneous “compositions.” We work with ways to use fundamentals of
rhythm, harmony and melody to improvise - challenging students both to create on their native
instruments, and provide supportive accompaniment on other “rhythm section” instruments - all "without
a net" of written parts or sheet music. Note: At least one year of prior private music lessons is
recommended.
Music Reading for Singers
This class is for avid choral singers and newer singers who want an opportunity to deepen their skills in
order to maximize their potential in a choral or solo setting. The class is led by Jessica Allen, soprano.
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Participants practice and refine their understanding of essential musical elements, such as the Grand
Staff, note names, rhythms, key signatures, and intervals. This class provides a fun, relaxed
atmosphere, acting like an applied music theory class. Productive learning strategies will be explored,
including movement, sight-singing on numbers, and more.
Suzuki Violin Group Class
The Suzuki Method is based on the combination of a weekly private lesson and group classes. The
group classes serve to motivate and inspire students of all levels and ages. The class curriculum focuses
on development and review of violin techniques relevant to students of all levels and ages. In the
group classes beginning students can play along with and model the more advanced players, inspiring
them to work towards a more advanced level of playing. Meanwhile, the more advanced students
work on leadership skills and ensemble playing. Faculty member, Emily Sunderman creates a
welcoming environment for all to participate and uses creative strategies to work on common skills
during the group classes including musical games and exercises.
Ensembles
Allegro Community Chorus
The Allegro Chorus is a lively gathering of people who want to share the joy of singing together. All
are welcome - there are no auditions. In our weekly meetings, melodies, rhythms and harmonies are
taught in the context of singing songs from around the world. Faculty members Susan Reit de Salas and
Betty Kafumbe teach sight reading, healthy vocal practice and musicianship. At the end of each
semester, the entire Allegro community shares their music with each other, their families and friends in a
joint concert.
Acoustic Music Ensemble
Students young and old, with different levels of experience take private lessons on an acoustic
instrument (guitar, banjo, mandolin, accordion, or fiddle) along with monthly group classes. The
individual lessons will focus on technique, tunes, and songs, which are applied and worked on as a
band in the monthly group classes. The group presents a concert for the public to finish the session. The
music is primarily - though not limited to - Bluegrass and American Roots music.
Chamber Ensemble
Always wanted to play with other instruments, or ready to take your private lessons to the next level? In
our chamber music program, players are matched based on their levels and schedules in various
combinations and will study a variety of genres based on the interest of the group. Groups are
coached weekly, or upon arrangement, by an appointed MCMC faculty member. Weekly rehearsal
space will be made available to each group at MCMC. All are encouraged to participate in a public
concert to conclude the session.
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Vermont Violins - Burlington Violin Shop - MCMC recommended!
Vermont Violins is dedicated to promoting the study of violins, violas, 'celli, and bass'. In fact, the violin
family of instruments is not only their specialty, it is all they do. Owner, Kathy Reilly, is a violist having
studied at the Oberlin College Conservatory of music.
Website: http://www.vermontviolins.com/
Address: 23 Church St. Burlington, VT 05401
Phone: (802) 862-0349
Ellis Music Company - MCMC recommended!
High Quality and affordable instruments for Vermont and New Hampshire residents, with “student”
through “professional” instrument model options. Repairs needed while renting are offered by Ellis.
Website: https://www.ellismusic.com/aeRntPlan.aspx
Address: Ellis Music Company, Inc. 1709 Vermont Route 107 Bethel, VT 05032
Phone: 802-234-6400
email: [email protected]
New Music Store in Middlebury, VT
We sell lightly used and factory refurbished guitars. All guitars are professionally serviced and
guaranteed with free return shipping. Quality guitars for affordable prices.
Website: https://theonlineguitarstore.com/
Address: 7 Seymour Street Middlebury, VT (next to the fire station)
Phone: (802) 458-1266
email: [email protected]
Chris Prickitt, MCMC’s acoustic music instructor has acoustic instruments (violas, banjos, hammer
dulcimer, mandolins, bass, autoharp, guitars, fiddles, accordions, dobros) and sound equipment for
sale!
Phone: (207) 924-4121
email: [email protected]
National Education Music Company
Band and Orchestra instruments available for unlimited low-cost monthly rental payments.
Website: http://www.nemc.com/instrument-selection-guide/
Music and Arts
Affordable instrument rental with a three month trial period for new musicians.
Website: https://www.musicarts.com/
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Why is the Customer Portal useful for the parent or student?
You can access your account with us at any time! Update your information, register your students,
make payments, view your balances and statements, review our policies and much more!
CUSTOMER PORTAL FIRST TIME LOGIN INSTRUCTIONS:
In order to use the Customer Portal, you must have a valid email on file with us, and your email
account must accept mail from [email protected].
Instructions for accessing the Customer Portal for the first time:
1. Navigate to www.mcmcvt.org and click on the “Account Login” link located on the right side of the
page.
2. You will be directed to a new window with our studio logo to the left and a boxed login area to the
right. In the boxed area, enter the email address that you have on file with us at the studio and click on
“I don’t have or know my password.” A temporary password will be created and sent to you
immediately by email.
Visual Below:
3. Retrieve your temporary password from your email inbox, then return to the login screen and log in
to your secure personal account page.
4. Change your password to something you will remember under the “My Account” tab. Be sure to
click on the “SAVE” button whenever you’ve made changes.
5. Click on a tabbed area (News, My Account, Fees & Payments, My Contacts, My Students, My
Classes, Registration, Policies) to view detailed information or choose from the drop down list next to “I
want to:”
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6. Be sure to log off after you’ve completed your session by clicking on the “Sign Out” link in the upper
left corner of the main page.
Important Notes and Trouble Shooting: If you
click on the “I don’t have or know my password”
link and do not receive an automatically
generated password in your email inbox, it is
likely that the email address you’ve provided is
not the one we have on file. Please contact us,
so we can correct the email associated with your
account.
For assistance, search “customer portal
jackrabbit” on YouTube.
Visual Example Below:
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
MCMC Gift Certificates are a great way to share the invaluable gift of music with those you love.
Purchase private lessons for your friends and family and we’ll schedule lessons at their convenience.
Customize your gift certificate by instrument, number of lessons and lesson length.
Instrument Options:
Accordion
Banjo
Bagpipes
Bass
Cello
Clarinet
Fiddle
Flute
French Horn
Guitar
Harmonica
Harp
Mandolin
Percussion
Piano
Recorder
Saxophone
Tin Whistle
Trombone
Trumpet
Ukulele
Viola
Violin
Voice
Length Options:
30 minute lesson
45 minute lesson
60 minute lesson
To order or inquire about pricing, email Molly at: [email protected] or call (802) 989-7538.
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Created by Community School of the Arts, Wheaton IL
Formatted and revised, with permission, for Middlebury Community Music Center by Lois Rood 2016
The following basic music notation information will aid in your encouragement and support as
a parent of a practicing musician.
Note Values
The note value symbols below, demonstrate the duration of each note. Here is the order of
note values from longest to shortest:
whole
half
quarter
eighth
sixteenth
(4 beats) (2 beats) (1 beat) (½ beat) (1/4 beat)
The following demonstrates equality of duration.
=
=
=
=
Each note has a head, a stem and a flag.
flag
stem
head
When there are two or more notes that have flags within one beat, they are joined at the top
by a beam (one beam for eighth notes, two for sixteenth notes).
Rests are silences in music. Below are equivalent time values for notes and rests:
whole
half
quarter
eighth
sixteenth
(4 beats) (2 beats) (1 beat) (½ beat) (1/4 beat)
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Dotted Note Values
Notes followed by a dot, express a duration one and a half times the original note value (3
times one half of the original note’s value):
=
=
=
=
Music Staff
The music staff has 5 lines and 4 spaced. Count from the bottom to the top (like a building).
Line notes can be identified by the line going through the note. Space notes are in the spaces
between the lines.
5
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
space note
line note
Clef
The symbol at the beginning of each line of music is called the clef. Different clefs are used,
depending on the range of the instrument. When instruments play high notes, the treble (also
called the G clef) is used. For violas, the alto clef (also called the C clef) is used. For lower
notes, such as cello, bass or the left hand on the piano, the bass clef (also called the F clef) is
used.
G clef/treble clef
C clef/alto clef
F clef/bass clef
Musical Alphabet
In musical notation, notes range from A to G.
ABCDEFGABCDEFG
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This alphabet sequence is used to find the notes on the music staff. When the alphabet goes
forward, the notes go up the staff. When the alphabet goes backward, the notes go down
the staff.
G
G
F
F
E
E
D
D
C
C
B
B
A
A
Ledger lines
Notes that are above or below the staff are notated on ledger lines.
G A B C D
A B C
C
B
D
E
C
D
F
Accidentals
Accidentals are sharp, flat or natural signs that occur in a piece of music and are not already
in the key signature, thus applying only to that measure.
Sharp sign: raise the note a half step
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Flat sign: lower the note a half step
Natural sign: note’s original pitch
Key Signatures
After the clef symbol, there will sometimes be sharp or flat symbols indicating the key of the
piece; this is called the key signature. The key signature explains which notes the composer is
using in the piece. For example, if there is a sharp symbol on the F line, all Fs in the piece will
be played sharp (unless otherwise indicated with a natural sign).
The order of the sharps as they appear in the key signature: F C G D A E B.
The order of the flats as they appear in the key signature: B E A D G C F.
Example:
F, C and G sharp
B and E flat
Time Signatures
Time Signatures are located at the beginning of a piece of music, after the clef symbol and
key signature. The top number indicates how many beats are in each measure. The bottom
note explains what kind of note gets the beat: 2 = , 4 = , 8=
, 16=
Sometimes the “common time” symbol is used instead of four/four time.
Similarly, sometimes the “cut time” symbol is used instead of two/two time.
=
=
Examples:
2 beats per measure
gets the beat
2 beats per measure
gets the beat
3 beats per measure
gets the beat
3 beats per measure
gets the beat
4 beats per measure
gets the beat
6 beats per measure
gets the beat
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Dynamics
Dynamics indicate the volume of a piece of music, both static and changing.
The following dynamics are listed from softest to loudest, include:
Pianissimo
Piano
mezzo piano
mezzo forte
forte
fortissimo
A crescendo is a gradual increase in volume
A decrescendo is a gradual decrease in volume.
Articulation
Articulation is a series of contrasting expressive, technical strategies, such as staccatos or slurs,
used in performance to achieve desirable musical effects.
Staccato markings indicate playing the note as short, or quick, as possible.
Accents marks suggest playing a note with a strong attack
Marcato markings are similar to, but more intense than, an accent mark; Marcato suggest
attacking the note as strong as possible.
Slurs connect two or more notes.
Tenuto marks indicate stretching the note to its full, or greater, value
Fermatas are symbols which indicate that a note’s length may be held longer than the note’s
original value, at the discretion of the performer or conductor.
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
A Capella – Vocal music performed without
instrumental accompaniment
Coda – the ending portion of some songs
Crescendo – a gradual increase in volume
Accelerando – a gradual increase in tempo
Decrescendo – a gradual decrease in volume
Accidental – A symbol – flat, sharp or natural – used Dissonance – when two or more notes are performed
to indicate when a note is played one half step
simultaneously and cause harmonic tension; clashing
above or below the original pitch within the key
notes played simultaneously
Adagio – Italian for “slowly”, a tempo marking
Drone – a single pitch played consistently throughout
indicating a slow rhythmic pace
a piece, simultaneous to melody and harmony
Allegro – Italian for “cheerful”, a tempo marking
indicating a fast rhythmic pace
Dynamics – volume of music, static or changing
Alto – a voice part within a choir, usually sung by
females with a lower range
Fermata – a symbol indicating that the note’s length
may be held longer than the note’s original value, at
the discretion of the performer or conductor
Aria – a vocal solo, with orchestral accompaniment,
within an opera or oratorio
Forte – Italian for “strong”, a loud dynamic marking
Atonal – music with no tonal center or key
Fortissimo – Italian for “very loud”, a dynamic
marking, louder than forte
Articulation – technical strategies, such as staccatos Flat – an accidental indicating when a note is played
or slurs, used in performing to achieve musical effects one half step below its original pitch
Bass – the lowest voice part within a choir, sung by Glissando – a symbol indicating a very fast, slurred
males with the lowest range
chromatic scale to be performed between two notes
Bass Clef – A clef used for low-range instruments and several pitches apart
voice parts where the bottom line is G and the top
Half Step – the smallest possible difference between
line is A
two pitches in Western music; adjacent pitches; the
Beat – the technical and audible pulse within a piece next closest pitch above or below a given note (see
of music; a grouping of beats make up a measure
pitch)
within a given key signature
Harmony – a line of music within a piece which
Canon – when a melody is performed by several
supports the melody with pitches that differ from the
musicians with different starting points, simultaneously. melody line, though remain within the key
Chord – A grouping of notes within a scale
performed simultaneously
Homophony – a singular line of music without
harmony, performed by one or more musicians
Chromatic – a series of two or more notes a half step Intonation – used to describe the accuracy of a note’s
apart
pitch, not sharp or flat
Clef – the symbol at the beginning of a staff
Key – the series of eight notes, whole or half steps
indicating the range of the instrument or voice part
apart, used within a piece of music, or section of
and the note names on each line or space within the music
clef
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Key Signature – accidental symbols at the beginning Phrase – 1) a section of the melodic line which
of a staff, indicating the key
completes an idea; a musical sentence
Legato – Italian for “bound, driven,” a musical style to Polyphony – one or more independent and
produce a flowing, even and connected sound
complimentary lines of music performed
Major – a key in which the order of steps within the simultaneously
scale progresses whole, whole, half, whole, whole,
whole, half, generally portraying a “happy” sound
Piano – Italian for “soft”, a quiet dynamic marking,
between mezzo piano and pianissimo
Measure – a complete cycle of beats within the given Pianissimo – Italian for “very soft”, the quietest
time signature
dynamic marking
Melody – the main line of music within a piece,
usually most prominent in sound
Mezzo Piano – Italian for “moderately soft”, a quiet
dynamic marking, between piano and mezzo forte
Mezzo Forte – Italian for “moderately strong”, a
moderate dynamic marking
Pitch – 1) synonym for “note” 2) an adjective used to
describe the accuracy of a note’s performance:
sharp, flat or in tune
Presto – Italian for “quick,” a fast tempo
Range – the distance between the lowest and highest
notes in an instrument’s, or voice’s, capability
Minor – a key in which the third and sixth notes of the Recitative – the rhythmically-free section of music
scale are lowered by a half step, generally portraying before an aria, within an opera or oratorio
a sad or angry sound
Refrain – a few lines of music repeated and returned
Modulation – a phenomenon where the key changes to several times within a piece
within a piece
Register – synonym for octave
Natural – an accidental indicating that a pitch should
Relative Key – the major and minor keys which use
be played without sharp or flat
the same key signature
Octave – 1) the notes between and including the
Resonance – a performer’s ability to strongly and
bottom and top notes of a scale 2) the location, in
clearly play or sing a given pitch; full reverberation
terms of pitch, in which an instrumentalist or vocalist within a sound; a desirable musical quality
performs
Rhythm – 1) a series of notes with specific durations –
Opera – a theatrical production with sets, costumes,
one beat, two beats, half a beat, etc. 2) a general
blocking and characters, with orchestral
pulsation within a given piece of music – swung,
accompaniment, performed entirely in song
straight, even, etc.
Oratorio – musically equivalent to an opera, without Scale – 1) major and minor scales: a series of eight
sets, costumes or blocking
notes made up of whole and half steps 2) chromatic
Ornamentation – added notes performed quickly,
scales include all pitches, or every half step, within an
before or after an adjacent pitch, usually added by octave
the performer or indicated by composer, common in Sharp – an accidental indicating that a given note
Baroque Era music
should be performed one half step above the original
Parallel Key – the major and minor scale that begin
with the same pitch, or share a tonal center
pitch
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Slur – an articulation indicating connectedness
between pitches
Tonic – The note at the bottom and top of a given
scale
Soprano – the highest voice part within a choir, sung Treble Clef – A clef for high-range instruments and
by females with the highest range
voice parts, where the bottom line is E and the top
line is F
Staccato – an articulation indicating separation, or
audible space, between pitches
Staff – five horizontal lines and spaces on which
music is printed
Straight – a rhythmic pattern/style in which all beats
receive even worth
Swing – a rhythmic pattern/style in which the every
other beat is shorter than the previous beat, the
previous beat is stretched to account for the time
signature
Tempo – the frequency between beats; how fast or
slow a given piece of music is
Tenor – a voice part within a choir, usually sung by
males with a higher range
Tremolo – 1) An undesirable, rapid shaking of the
voice on a sustained pitch; flawed vibrato 2) rapid
alternating between two notes to create a suspenseful
effect
Time Signature – 1) the number of beats in a measure
2) the symbol at the beginning of a staff line,
indicating beats per measure and rhythmic value of
beat
Trill – when a sustained pitch is performed by rapidly
switching between the given pitch and a neighboring
pitch
Tune – the act of physically adjusting an instrument to
improve accuracy, not sharp or flat
Unison – when two or more instruments, or voices,
Timbre – the description of an instrument’s, or voice’s, perform the same note – can include different octaves
distinct and unique sound
Vibrato – a desirable, steady, even and subtle
Tonal Center – the note at the bottom of a given
shaking of the voice on a sustained pitch
scale, synonym for tonality
Whole Step – equivalent to two half steps
Tonality – a word used to describe the key of a
piece: major or minor
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Middlebury Community Music Center Handbook 2016/17
Thank you!
Middlebury Community Music Center | [email protected]
MCMC is dedicated to providing holistic music education for community members of all ages through excellence in musical
instruction, community collaboration and comprehensive programming in the musical arts.
MCMC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. EIN: 47-1178640
______ Yes! I would like to be a
□ Scholarship donation
sustaining supporter of MCMC.
□ General donation
Please indicate the amount you would like to contribute monthly:
$5___
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$25___
$50___ Other $_________
I, ___________________, authorize MCMC to charge the agreed amount listed above, to my
credit card on file with MCMC. I agree that I will pay for this purchase in accordance with
the issuing bank cardholder agreement.
______ Yes! Please accept my
□ Scholarship donation
donation to MCMC!
□ General donation
Please indicate the amount you would like to contribute:
$25___
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I, ___________________, authorize MCMC to charge the agreed amount listed above, to my
credit card on file with MCMC, or by check. I agree that I will pay for this purchase in
accordance with the issuing bank cardholder agreement.
Checks may be payable to “MCMC” or Middlebury Community Music Center 6 Main St
Middlebury VT 05753
Thank you for your donation!
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