
September Classes

Intro to Songwriting in the Songbook Style with Steve Leslie
MONDAYS, 6-8 PM
IN-PERSON, 3 WEEKS
SEPTEMBER 8, 15, and 22
Join Grammy-winning songwriter and educator Steve Leslie for an immersive exploration of songwriting inspired by the Great American Songbook. This course covers the techniques of legendary composers like Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, and Cole Porter, focusing on song form, melody, harmony, and lyric themes. Through guided analysis and hands-on exercises, students will learn to craft songs that echo the elegance and emotional depth of classic American standards, blending tradition with their unique creative voice.

Vocal Cohort with Abigail Flowers
MONDAYS, 6:30-8:30 PM
IN-PERSON, 4 WEEKS
SEPTEMBER 8, 15, 22, and 29
Join vocalist Abigail Flowers for a supportive, in-person vocal class focused on active listening, performance, and communal growth. Each week offers an opportunity to take one meaningful step forward in your musical journey—whether you’re a seasoned singer or just beginning. With an emphasis on lifelong learning and consistent progress, this class nurtures vocal development in a collaborative, encouraging environment. All skill levels welcome.

Beginner’s Jazz Improvisation with Desmond Ng
TUESDAYS, 6-8 PM
IN-PERSON
SEPTEMBER 9, 16, 23, and 30
Unlock the fundamentals of jazz improvisation in this engaging beginner-friendly class. You’ll explore the building blocks of jazz harmony, study classic solos to understand the language of jazz, and learn standard repertoire essential for any aspiring jazz musician. We’ll also cover common jam session procedures so you can feel confident and prepared to join in and play with others. Perfect for instrumentalists or vocalists ready to take their first steps into improvisation.

Brazilian Rhythms & Repertoire with Erik Abernathy
TUESDAYS, 6-8 PM
IN-PERSON, 4 WEEKS
SEPTEMBER 9, 16, 23, and 30
$150
Explore the vibrant world of Brazilian music in this performance-based class led by guitarist Erik Abernathy. Students will dive into classic Brazilian repertoire—especially samba and bossa nova—while learning the rhythmic foundations and stylistic nuances that define the genre. Each session focuses on group playing, allowing students to develop ensemble skills, deepen their rhythmic feel, and connect with the soulful spirit of Brazilian jazz.

Celia Cruz and the Birth of Salsa: Jazz, Rhythm, & Immigrant Voices with Alison Brazil
WEDNESDAYS, 6-8 PM
IN-PERSON, 4 WEEKS (This class meets in-person with the option to join online if needed.)
SEPTEMBER 10, 17, 24, and OCT 1
$150
Celia Cruz, the legendary Queen of Salsa, was the vibrant voice at the heart of a genre born from the immigrant experience in America. While Salsa’s rhythmic roots trace back to Afro-Cuban son, its modern form blossomed in New York City, shaped by the creativity of Cuban, Puerto Rican, and Dominican immigrants who infused it with jazz, funk, and diverse Latin influences. This 4-week course, designed for jazz enthusiasts, centers on Celia Cruz’s extraordinary legacy as a cultural icon and musical innovator.