The first activity of the day is Instrument Training. This is done in small groups, by instrument, and by level. During technique classes, we also cover basic music theory, styles, fundamental skills sets needed on each instrument and song structure analysis. Classes will be brought together for sectionals. Bass players will work with drummers, singers will work with keyboard players, or lead guitars and rhythm guitars will work together. Vocalists and other instruments such as horns, violins, cellos, etc. will also be working with the rhythm sections and other instruments as needed.

Repertoire will consist of working on selected material for band rehearsals in preparation for the final concert.

All students attend Voice classes.

If a band is not rehearsing it is attending a master class, workshop in Songwriting, Band Management, or a Master Class. Songwriting will focus on song structure, style, lyrical development, rhythm and melody.

Band Management will focus on setting goals and selecting material, rehearsal organization, and concert stage preparation. Master Class will be either an instrument master class, where advanced concepts for a particular instrument are explored, or a band master class where the emphasis is more on advanced group performance techniques.

Bands are coached through rehearsals and performances on how to work together. Bands work as teams, analyzing songs, learning covers and/or writing their own tunes. The instructors will teach the bands how to get started on rehearsing a song and see it through to completion.

Recording: We have launched a Recording Project with Derek Studios in Dalton. Selected bands will record off campus with Greg Steele at Derek Studios. This is a fully professional studio. Bands selected must be at Rock On both weeks and will have 4 hours in the studio to record one song.

Orientation Day Schedule

Moving into Melville:We will be using 12 rooms in Melville. We will pre assign rooms before load in. Each drummer will be assigned to a rehearsal room. Guitar and Bass players will be directed to either Melville 104, 105 or 110.

DRUMMERS and Keyboard players: Please drive directly to the Melville Building to unload drum kits, amps, and keyboards. We will have staff on hand for directions and to help with the instruments.

Drummers: Each drummer will be assigned a rehearsal room at load-in. This is where you will rehearse with your band. Please ID all parts of your kit and bring a list of what you have brought to Chris Mattoon.

Keyboard players: Ben Kohn will assign you to a rehearsal room.

Guitar and bass players: Do not leave your instruments in Melville. Keep your guitars with you. You may leave your amps in Melville rooms 104,105, and110. These rooms will be used for guitar and bass instruction. You will move your amps for rehearsals. (Please bring a small amp that you can carry easily). ID your amp!

General Meeting After loading in your equipment, please come to the Koussevitzky Arts Center Lobby to sign-in. We’ll gather in K111 (Little Theater) which is right off the lobby. We’ll introduce the faculty and hand out schedules. Registration tables will be set up in the lobby.

NOTE to Drivers: Please do not park in the drop off zone in front of the KAC or the lawns in front of the Melville Building rehearsal rooms. We will have staff available to help unload the instruments. PACK CORDS and CABLES in a TOTE BAG

Any questions: Please call me, Mary Talmi at 413-499-1733 or 447-9964

Director Jay Fruet can be reached at jayfruet@hotmail.com