A Complete Curriculum

 

Diversity, accessibility, a sense of community, and a range of opportunities characterize the Hochstein experience. Each department provides balanced and varied offerings:

 

Music

 

Hochstein provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide a well-rounded musical education, including weekly lessons, regular evaluation, frequent performance and ensemble opportunities, and musicianship courses. Taking part in all aspects of the curriculum will not only introduce you to the delights of music, but also help you perform more easily, broaden your musical skills beyond your instrument, and make new musical friends.

 

Dance

 

Hochstein offers a wide variety of dance options, including ballet, modern, jazz, tap, creative movement, and various ethnic styles. Classes are offered weekly and as students progress, they are encouraged to participate in multiple classes and/or styles. Ensemble and performance opportunities, and instruction in topics including choreography, dance history, injury prevention and stage make-up, add excitement and depth to the program.

 

Music Therapy

 

Individual and group sessions are tailored to the specific needs of those with developmental, social/emotional, learning, and physical challenges. Performance opportunities at Hochstein and in the community offer students a chance to socialize and experience performing in an ensemble or as a soloist. Group sessions are available at Hochstein or in community programs, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, rehabilitation centers, or group residences. Additional programming includes community choirs, handbell groups, wellness classes, percussion/drumming groups, and an arts-based therapeutic day program (TAP) for students with special needs.

 

A Supportive Environment

Included as part of your tuition fee, Hochstein provides the following ongoing services:

 

  • an orientation session to discuss individual or, in the case of Music Therapy, group goals
  • weekly lessons tailored to meet individual goals, scheduled Mondays through Saturdays and on most evenings,
  • regular evaluation through written reports,
  • consultations with a Dean of Students on future directions,
  • music and dance rehearsals and performances with a professional accompanist,
  • student and studio recitals, as well as Dance and Music Therapy Departmental recitals,
  • a wide variety of community performance opportunities.

 

Getting Started

 

New students in the Music Department are introduced to Hochstein through an orientation meeting with the Dean's Office. At that time, we can explore your goals and expectations while you learn more about the philosophy and programs of the School. After this discussion, a teacher will be recommended and a weekly lesson time scheduled.

 

Charting Your Progress

 

The faculty, Department Chairs and the Dean's Office work closely to monitor each student's progress. Communication between students, parents, and faculty is ongoing and is formalized through progress reports at the end of each semester. Parents are welcome to visit lessons by arrangement with the teacher.

 

Asking For Help

 

Members of the Deans' Office are available to consult with you about your progress, your choices for ensembles, and even college or career choices.

 

Accompanist Services for Music and Dance Students

 

An accompanist is available for student recitals, studio recitals, and School competitions. To make these arrangements, as well as for assistance in making audition CDs or DVDs for colleges and summer programs, please contact the Dean's Office.

 

Sharing Your Success

 

All students are encouraged to take advantage of one or more of the following performance opportunities; however, participation is always a decision shared by you and your teacher.

 

  • Student & Studio Recitals occur frequently, allowing for a limited concert length and an enjoyable performance experience. Family and friends are welcome. Dance and Music Therapy Departmental Recitals occur twice yearly.
  • Annual performance opportunities occur through our weekend Performathon in December at Eastview Mall and our Barnes & Noble Booksellers Bookfair each February in Pittsford. Funds raised from these events support the programs of Hochstein.
  • Community Outreach Performances by students, individually or in ensembles, take place at such venues as The Memorial Art Gallery, Eastman House, Valley Manor, Rochester Area Community Foundation, Rochester Friendly Home, Strong National Museum of Play, and various senior centers and nursing homes throughout the community.

 

Reaching For Excellence

 

Merit Scholarships are awarded annually to selected students following an audition, and based on achievement and performing ability. Scholarship awards in varying amounts, as well as honorable mentions, are presented in the Elementary, Junior High, Senior High, and Dance categories. Following are named scholarships awarded each year: Dorothy Pund Allen Memorial Scholarship; Walter J. Holloran Memorial Scholarship; Lillian Taylor Hubbard Memorial Scholarship; Lois P. Lines Memorial Scholarship; Joseph Parungao Memorial Scholarship; Sydney R. Rubin Memorial Scholarship; Ruth Salzman Memorial Scholarship; Dr. David Skvorak Scholarship; Knights of Pythias Scholarships; the Christina & Diana Wang Memorial Scholarships; and the Donald G. Yungkurth Memorial Scholarship.

 

The Honors Chamber Ensemble Program offers serious students who play at an advanced level an opportunity to celebrate a love of music with others at the same level of performance, while exploring a broad repertoire for the small ensemble. The program features weekly coaching sessions, a master class component, and a variety of performance opportunities. Scholarships are awarded based on audition, and members of the Honors Chamber Ensemble Program are expected to perform at venues throughout the community.

 

Hochstein’s Scholarship Dance Ensemble (ages 12 and older) provides ensemble experience in ballet, modern, and other styles for the serious dance student who is on pointe. Placement in the ensemble is based on fall auditions.


The Honors Certificate Program provides both structure and challenge for the serious student. Entrance to this program is gained by audition, and a certificate is awarded to those who complete the following requirements: enrollment in the program for a minimum of two years, music theory and music history courses, yearly performance examinations, and a final solo recital.