Activities – Music

Adult Chamber Music Players Club

Instructor: Lee Chivers
Meets: 1:30–4:30 p.m., the third Saturday of each month (October–May) at Camelback Bible Church (3900 E. Stanford Dr., Paradise Valley); see calendar for exceptions or special dates.

Music has been called the universal language. It acts as a playground for the soul. It engages the mind and the soul simultaneously and is a vital part of the human condition. Its power knows no boundary of age, gender, social status or race, and can in fact break down such barriers to communication and understanding.

Chamber music holds a unique place in musical communication. Like conversation, each instrument can speak alone, participate in playful banter, or unite with the other voices. But each voice stands individually, expressing its role in its own unique way. Cultivating this style of communication can be rewarding as a musician and helpful in understanding relationships we approach verbally.

At the Recreative Art Center, monthly chamber music sessions consist of performing, reading, and coaching in the best sense of the word. Open communication between members and emphasis on listening is vital to the process. Understanding the language within the music to better express it and expanding participants' understanding of musical communication utilizes the piece at hand to apply greater concepts.

String, wind, and keyboard musicians participate for the pleasure of exploring and playing chamber music. The club meets monthly in members’ homes to self-select into ensembles; make music together; receive coaching, including Alexander Technique and performance anxiety; and perform in small ensembles. The club provides amateur musicians of all playing levels and experience opportunities to meet other players. Ensembles may play for RAC events as well as partner organizations’ events. Registered participants will receive a monthly e-mail newsletter and directory of participants.

On July 8–10, 2011, string, wind, and keyboard musicians attended a weekend workshop among the cool mountain pines of Flagstaff. The weekend included opportunities for playing and performing in small and large ensembles, coaching, Alexander Technique, yoga, and seminars. The featured guest artist was composer Catherine McMichael; wind coach was Lee Ann Chivers, DMA, and string coach was Jacqueline Schwandt, DMA. See photos from the workshop at the Chamber Music Workshop Gallery.

The RAC Chamber Music Players Club is affiliated with ACMP – The Chamber Music Network.

Youth Drumming

Instructor: Mario Barela

Drumming provides youth with a high-energy, stimulating activity that teaches rhythm, performance, and basic music theory.

Youth drumming is provided in partnership with Buckets of Fun.