Bay Chamber Concerts and Music School will be offering several group classes this fall beginning in early October. All classes meet weekly for one hour and cost $10/class and run for 6 week sessions. Classes take place in the Recital Hall at the Bay Chamber Music School, 18 Central Street in Rockport. Group classes are free to all students currently enrolled in private lessons at Bay Chamber Music School.

The Continuing Beginner Ukulele class with instructor, Jeffrey Weinberger level will emphasize song learning. Through the songs of varied styles and techniques, students will learn not only more about uke playing, but also basic musicianship. This new session begins with 3 weeks dedicated to single note, melody and scale studies and 3 weeks of chord melody playing (playing chords and melody simultaneously like piano or jazz and classical guitar). Students should bring their own instrument and electronic tuner. Players must know at least 6 chords and be able to play a simple song all the way through. The entire spectrum of "intermediate" level playing will be covered though, and all players will have an equally important role.

The Bay Chamber Jazz Ensemble, led by Mike Whitehead, trumpet and Nate Martin, bass will explore jazz in a fun supportive environment. Students will be learn simple jazz/blues tunes to explore the key components of jazz; rhythm, harmony, melody, improvisation and group interplay. All are encouraged to come to learn what jazz is all about or to expand their existing knowledge. All instruments and voices are welcome.

The fall session will concentrate on tunes with simple form and harmonic structure. This makes it easier for members to find their voice in the music and to get the feel of playing jazz. We will also concentrate on improvising and getting an ensemble sound. At the end of the semester the ensemble will perform on music school concerts and recitals.

Music Exploration: Hum, Strum, Drum & Play, a group class led my Jessica Day allows children ages 6-9 to explore the world of music by making music (playing and listening) in a group setting. Children learn basic music concepts and skills using a variety of percussion instruments, recorder and ukulele. Students also learn fun and age-appropriate ways to sing and express themselves. They'll sing, move, play, improvise (ensemble and solo work) and listen to a wide range of music. Everyone's allowed to develop at their own pace and encouraged to reach toward their potential. This class is a great choice for students who are considering lessons, as a companion to private instruction, or anyone who wants to explore the world of music.

And finally, Six Classes for the Insatiably Curious, taught by musician and composer, Malcolm Brooks, meets weekly on Tuesdays at 11 a.m. beginning October 10. Through discussions and casual presentations, students will explore to musical mysteries from classical to contemporary. Possible mysteries include: Why does some music feel particularly sensual? What would a blues song by Bach sound like? What do musicians actually think while they are improvising? When people are tapping their feet on the floor, are they all also lifting their feet at the same time? How do painting and sculpture influence music? How does a melody actually communicate an emotion? How does a music score change a film? Do trained musicians secretly play by ear?
To register or for more information please visit www.baychamberconcerts.org or call 207-236-2823.