2024-2025 Ensemble Program
Age/Level
7th-12th Grade
Our Ensemble Program is a tremendously impactful musical experience and by far, the most substantial performance opportunity for students in Westchester. Students engage in a truly profound and life-changing musical and social experience where they will perform alongside their colleagues and broaden their musical horizons in nearly every way possible. Performing with other like-minded musicians is a cornerstone of your training. It’s the reason we take lessons and ultimately, it’s what music is all about!
Last year was transformative. Our school and program grew significantly and as a result, we invested in instruments and our studio space to improve and add value to the student performance experience. This year we will be continuing that process by vastly improving our in house video/audio and editing capabilities and adding a sound engineer to our performances.
2024/2025 performance highlights include a performance by our Summer Ensemble at the start of the year at the Zildjian Day of Drums and Percussion which will be a major community event, a performance at SUNY Purchase, a return of the very popular Holiday Concert, and both Fall and Winter Studio Concert Events.
Additionally, our Weds rehearsal block will be even more focused with students being placed in very specific groups based on age, goals, and skill level. Expect a new level of organization and professionalism from this program in 2024-2025!
NEW!!! - Sign up by semester
While it is strongly encouraged to participate in Ensemble the full year, we are now offering a semester by semester option for students who either cannot participate the entire year, or who would simply like the opportunity to sign up for 1 semester at a time.
Please keep in mind that if you are new to Ensemble, it will be significantly more challenging to enter the program mid year. If you are new to ensemble and would like to sign up by semester, you are strongly encouraged to sign up for the fall semester and then revisit in the winter.
Details about semester by semester signs up and fees are listed below.
Please review the following information carefully and note that the sign up deadline is August 26th
General Information
Ensemble consists of students from 7th-12th grade (6th graders may join on a case by case basis) and meets on Weds from 5:30-8:30pm. Students are placed in groups based on age and skill level. These groups will be revisited each semester. Not every student will be required to attend the entire rehearsal.
A clear and professional schedule will be sent out once sign ups are complete.
All of the information about our program is included in order below.
General Rehearsal Schedule, Performance Timelines, and Additional Information
Red - Performances
Blue - Rehearsals
All Weds rehearsals at 5:30-8:30pm. Please also note several Saturday morning rehearsals on the schedule.
Weds 9/4 - opening meeting and Zildjian Day rehearsal
Performance #1 - Zildjian Day of Drums and Percussion at the Simon Boyar School of Drums and Percussion, Saturday September 7th, 2024 time TBD - Summer Ensemble Members Only
Summer Ensemble students who sign up for Ensemble will open the year with a short performance at our Zildjian Day of Drums and Percussion, a full day community wide event sponsored by Zildjian that will feature presentations, giveaways, guest artists, performances and so much more!
SUNY Purchase and Fall Concert Timeline Rehearsal Schedule
Weds 9/11
Weds 9/18
Weds 9/25
Weds 10/2
Weds 10/9
Weds 10/16
Saturday 10/19 9am-12pm
Weds 10/23
Saturday 10/26 9am-12pm
Weds 10/30
Performance #2 - SUNY Purchase - Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 time TBD (most likely morning)
Students will visit SUNY Purchase for a 15-20 min performance set. Transportation will not be provided although I will have room for about 5 students in my van. Repertoire TBD.
Weds 11/6
Performance #3 - Fall Concert - Saturday, November 9th, 2024 at the Simon Boyar School of Drums and Percussion, Dress Rehearsal 9am-11am, Concert at 4pm
Our Fall Concert will consist of all the ensemble music that we have been working on during the fall. The concert will be recorded.
Holiday Concert Timeline/Rehearsal Schedule
Weds 11/13 5:30-7:30pm NO REHEARSAL
Weds 11/20 5:30-7:30pm Student Project Hearings
Weds 11/27 NO REHEARSAL
Weds 12/4 5:30-7:30pm Student Project Coachings
Performance #4 - Holiday Concert - Saturday, December 7th soundcheck at Simon Boyar School of Drums and Percussion - studio will be decorated, snacks and beverages provided. Soundcheck 11am-1pm, Holiday Party 2:30-3:45pm, Concert 4pm
Our Holiday Concert was a massive success last year and we are going to build on it. Please note the additional information below.
If you would like to perform a student project on our Holiday Concert, please review the requirements below
- Students may choose from the following performance options
- solo
- drum cover
- personal project
- duo or trio
If you are interested in performing a duo or trio, I am going to strongly encourage you to partner up with another student. I will be happy to meet with students who are interested in this to discuss potential projects and rehearsal options. If you are interested in performing a duo with me, availability will be limited and there will be a list of requirements that must be fulfilled for this to happen.
All students will be required to perform a rough version of their project for the entire class on Weds 11/20. This doesn’t need to be perfect but the act of doing this will represent your commitment to your project. Students will then have a student project coaching in front of the class on one of the coaching dates above.
Weds 12/11 5:30-7:30pm Rehearsal
Performance(s) #5 - Performance weekend at the Paramount in Peekskill NY with Billboard Charting Artist Jessica Lynn for her amazing Christmas Show!!!
Tech Rehersal Friday 12/13 5-8pm
Performance Saturday 12/14 at 8pm
Performance Sunday 12/15 at 3pm
NO REHEARSAL Weds 12/18, 12/25, 1/1 ENJOY YOUR BREAK!!!
Winter Concert Timeline/Rehearsal Schedule
Please note, we will also be holding several mandatory Saturday rehearsals in the lead up to our concert on Saturday, March 22nd.
Weds 1/8 5:30-8:30pm
Weds 1/15
Weds 1/22
Weds 1/29
Weds 2/5
Weds 2/12
Weds 2/19 NO REHEARSAL
Weds 2/26
Weds 3/5
Saturday 3/8, 9am-12pm
Weds 3/12
Saturday 3/15, 9am-12pm
Weds 3/19
Performance #6 - Winter Concert Saturday, March 22nd at the Simon Boyar School of Drums and Percussion, Dress Rehearsal 9am-11am, Concert at 4pm
Our winter concert is a culmination of everything we’ve learned throughout the year. Assignments will be made based on student goals and commitment. The concert will be recorded.
2024/2025 Ensemble Program Fee Overview
While it is strongly encouraged to participate in Ensemble the full year, we are excited to offer a semester by semester option for students who either cannot participate the entire year, or who would simply like the opportunity to sign up for 1 semester at a time.
Payment In Full
Fall Semester $849
Due 9/1
Winter Semester $849
Due 12/15 - please note that enrollment for the Winter Semester must be complete by this date
Fall and Winter Semester $1649 (save $49)
Due 9/1
Monthly Payment Option
By semester - 4 equal payments of $212.25
Payments due 9/1, 10/1, 11/1, 12/1
Fall and Winter semester - 8 equal payments of $212.25
Payments due 9/1, 10/1, 11/1, 12/1, 1/1, 2/1, 3/1, and 4/1
Credit Card Payments
You may pay for Ensemble by credit card. If you decide to do this, a 4% convenience fee will be attached to your payment. If you are paying monthly and decide to pay by credit card you will be sent a separate invoice for ensemble each month with the fee attached.
Requirements
Students must be enrolled in lessons at the Simon Boyar School of Drums and Percussion in order to participate in our ensemble program. If you are enrolled in lessons elsewhere, a short video of your playing must be submitted.
Junior Ensemble Fall 2024
Age/Level
3rd-6th Grade
Content
Our Ensemble Program is a tremendously impactful musical experience and by far, the most substantial performance opportunity for students in Westchester. We are now proud to offer a program specifically designed for younger students who would like the opportunity to experience our program.
Students engage in life-changing musical and social experience where they will perform alongside other students their age and broaden their musical horizons in nearly every way possible through exposure to new instruments, music, and an overall elevated experience. Students will be given parts, participate in rehearsals, and perform in a concert which will be recorded. This is a major opportunity to put some of the skills we learn in lessons to use. Performing with other like-minded musicians is a cornerstone of your training. It’s the reason we take lessons and ultimately, it’s what music is all about!
Opportunity To Grow
Many students who participate in Junior Ensemble will go on to join our Flagship Percussion Ensemble Program. Junior Ensemble is a great way to become acquainted with performing in a supportive and fun environment. We highly recommend it for young students who are enjoying their lessons and excited to learn more.
Rehearsals
Saturday 9/14 from 12-1pm
Saturday 9/21 from 12-1pm
Saturday 9/28 from 12-1pm
Saturday 10/5 from 12-1pm
Saturday 10/12 from 12-1pm
Saturday 10/19 from 12-1pm
Saturday 10/26 from 12-1pm
***Sunday 11/3 from 12-1pm
Please be aware that while it is strongly recommended, you DO NOT need to be available for all of these rehearsal dates. If you have a conflict, please don’t let that discourage you. we will be happy to try and work it out with you.
Concert - Saturday 11/9 at the Simon Boyar School of Drums and Percussion
Dress Rehearsal 11:30-12:30pm
Concert at 1pm
Fee
$259
OR you are welcome to pay in two installments
9/1 $129.50
10/1 $129.50
Sign up Deadline
August 26th
Special Performance Opportunity with Jessica Lynn at the Paramount in Peekskill, NY!
Junior Ensemble participants will also have the opportunity to join Billboard Charting Artist Jessica Lynn on stage at the Paramount in Peekskill, NY for her amazing Christmas Show!!! You must be signed up for the full fall Junior Ensemble program to participate in this opportunity.
If you would like to do this, please review the dates below and please note the additional rehearsal dates on Saturday 12/7 and Weds 12/11. There will also be an additional fee of $65 which will be due upon sign up on August 26th.
Saturday 12/7 10am-11am Rehearsal
Weds 12/11 5:30-7:30pm Rehearsal - Full Ensemble Program
Performance weekend at the Paramount in Peekskill NY with Billboard Charting Artist Jessica Lynn!
Tech Rehersal Friday 12/13 5-8pm
Performance Saturday 12/14 at 8pm
Performance Sunday 12/15 at 3pm
Performance Examples
Here are some performance videos and examples of our Junior Ensemble.
Ensemble Program FAQ
How much does Ensemble Cost?
Payment In Full
Fall Semester $849
Due 9/1
Winter Semester $849
Due 12/15 - please note that enrollment for the Winter Semester must be complete by this date
Fall and Winter Semester $1649 (save $49)
Due 9/1
Monthly Payment Option
By semester - 4 equal payments of $212.25
Payments due 9/1, 10/1, 11/1, 12/1
Fall and Winter semester - 8 equal payments of $212.25
Payments due 9/1, 10/1, 11/1, 12/1, 1/1, 2/1, 3/1, and 4/1
I’m involved in sports and other activities. Is there any way for me to participate?
Absolutely YES! If you are someone who is going to put in the work and remain committed we will work with you. While not ideal, we have no problem with students needing to miss a rehearsal from time to time as long as when they attend rehearsal they are fully prepared. Additionally, we can certainly design your level of participation if you are concerned about being overwhelmed. You don’t need to be in every piece we play. The SB School has a successful track record of supporting and working with families who have multiple interests and I encourage you to reach out to us with your concerns. Again, WE WILL WORK WITH YOU!!!
I’m really nervous about playing with other students. I think I want to wait until the “right moment” to try this out.
I hear this quite a bit. Truthfully, there will never be a “right moment.” Learning music is fun and fulfilling but it’s also about challenging yourself and meeting goals. It’s important to recognize that playing with other students is the very reason we take lessons to begin with. Additionally, Ensemble is a supportive environment. We want to welcome new people.
I am opting into monthly payments. If after a few months it’s not working out, are we still responsible for the remaining balance?
Yes. While payment options are provided for convenience, once you sign up, you are responsible for the entire balance. If you leave the program early for any reason you still must pay the remaining balance either monthly or in full.
I'm already enrolled in lessons at the school. Why do I have to pay an additional fee for Ensemble?
It takes a great deal of resources to run an ensemble program. From instruments, to guest artists, to concerts, to the sheer amount of time spent rehearsing and putting the material together, ensemble is a substantial commitment on everyone’s part. It needs to be supported financially. If you enjoy the experience of performing alongside other musicians with personalized parts and music in a state of the art drum and percussion studio with top of the line instruments surrounded by a supportive community of professional guest artist musicians and music lovers, you have to pay for it.
Can I miss rehearsals for school and family functions?
While technically all rehearsals are mandatory, if you are truly committed to learning your parts and working with your colleagues you will find me to be extremely flexible and even helpful when things come up. If you are doing the work and doing what you’re supposed to be doing we will work with you.
Ensemble seems like it’s only for serious students. I’m just having fun and I only want to take lessons.
This point of view is certainly well-meaning but slightly misguided. It’s important to realize that percussion ensembles of some sort exist in most parts of the country. This is because like lessons, they are an essential part of your training. It’s only in our area that they are perceived as something “extra” for “serious students.” Unfortunately, our area represents the exception to what is taking place in many if not most school districts across the country.
Ok that makes sense but again, I’m just having fun with lessons. I don’t really care about the big picture. Why should I do this?
Lessons are certainly essential. However, absolutely NOTHING compares to performing alongside other students. The challenges, performances, and AMAZING moments that take place during Ensemble are experiences that will last a lifetime. You will truly experience what your training has to offer and have more fun than you ever thought possible playing music.
I already perform in my school band program. Do I really need to be in Ensemble?
We consistently encourage and support students being a part of their band program. We also have great relationships with nearly every music department in our area and we fully and unequivocally support their efforts. Despite the fact that most music programs in Westchester have excellent and dedicated teachers, most school music programs in our area are simply not equipped to provide the kind of personalized experiences and performances needed. There are very few challenges and substantial opportunities available. This is especially true for drums and percussion. Students in our ensemble program will play more notes on better instruments, interact on a deeper level, and be personally challenged in a way that is only possible in a program with the proper focus and resources. Beyond that, students who participate in our Ensemble Program are often leaders in their school music programs. They tend to add tremendous value to the overall experience of their classmates. This is why our efforts are often strongly supported by band programs and educators in our area.
Why do I have to be signed up for lessons to participate?
Your own personal development will determine your success in Ensemble and private lessons are an essential cornerstone of that development. Without a private teacher to give you the personal one-on-one attention that you need to progress, it is nearly impossible to be successful in something like Ensemble.
Ensemble sounds great but my child isn’t serious enough. I want to wait until they are serious and then I will sign them up.
As a parent myself I totally get this. However, I would also point out that without the proper opportunity to discover what’s “out there,” it can be hard or even impossible for a student to ever fully experience what their training has to offer. Unfortunately, I see this time and time again. Without performances and goals to work towards things can become stagnant and students quit just when the best part is about to happen. Ensemble showcases the power and joy of what we do from every angle. If you know why you come here for lessons, I urge you to review our program and give it a chance. You won’t be sorry.