Supported in part by the New York State Music Fund, established by the New York State Attorney General at Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors.   

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Hochstein Music & Dance Programs—An Overview

Explore the diversity of Hochstein of age, background, skill level, program, curriculum, and opportunity as you participate in the arts. Many may also enjoy the added benefits of an arts education; an increased knowledge and appreciation of music and dance, as well as improved self-discipline, self-confidence and, often, academic skills.

The Hochstein Experience

A Complete Curriculum

Diversity, 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, emotional, learning, and physical challenges. This special program features solo and ensemble recital opportunities that add a joyful and rewarding dimension to private lessons. Group sessions are available at Hochstein or at day treatment centers, nursing homes, or group residences. Additionally, musical and social opportunities are available to Senior Centers through Handbell Choirs and Senior Choruses.

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 your 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,
• 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 your 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 tapes for colleges and summer programs, please contact the Dean's Office.

Sharing Your Successes

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.

• NQR (Not Quite a Recital) is a friendly, informal recital opportunity designed to remove many of the fears associated with public performance.
• 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. Additionally, the Music Therapy Department presents an annual, informal, cabaret-style evening, The Coffee House.
• 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, The Lilac Festival, Strong Museum, 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; and the Christina & Diana Wang Memorial Scholarships.

The Honors Chamber Ensemble Program offers serious students in grades 9-12 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 Junior Scholarship Dance Ensemble (ages 12-16), and Senior Scholarship Dance Ensemble (ages 13 and older), provide ensemble experience in ballet, modern, and jazz for the serious dance student who is on pointe. Placement in each ensemble is based on fall auditions, and the ensembles enjoy a variety of performance opportunities.

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; periodic performance examinations and a final recital. While primarily intended for high school students, the program is also open to adults.

For additional information, please call 585-454-4596.