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teaching cello lesson

Classes & Ensembles

for adults

Welcoming musicians of all levels in a relaxed, supportive environment

NSM offers a 20% tuition discount on group classes & ensembles for adults ages 60+

Group Classes

Group Piano

Instructor: Kaitlyn Leahy

Adult Group Piano is designed for students with little or no prior piano experience. In a relaxed and supportive group setting, participants will learn the fundamentals of piano playing, including keyboard geography, note reading, rhythm, technique, and basic music theory. Students will build confidence in their playing and develop skills that provide a strong foundation for continued musical growth. A piano or keyboard at home is not required for participation.​​​

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Tuesdays, 1:00–2:00pm
September 15, 2026 – January 12, 2027 (15 weeks)
Tuition: $345  |  Required Book: $12

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Registration has closed for this class. Please email us if you are interested in future opportunities for this program.

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Group Guitar

Instructor: Jef Charland

Join fellow beginners in a welcoming and supportive environment as you learn the basics of guitar. Designed for adults with little or no prior experience, this class introduces fundamental chords, strumming patterns, simple songs, and essential playing techniques. Along the way, students will build confidence, make music together, and become part of a vibrant community of learners. Please bring a guitar to class. If you bring an electric guitar, please bring an amp as well. â€‹

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​Thursdays, 12:00–1:00pm
September 17, 2026 – January 14, 2027 (15 weeks) 
Tuition: $345

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Registration has closed for this class. Please email us if you are interested in future opportunities for this program.

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Guitar
Piano
memorycafe

Memory Café Sing-Alongs

NSM is excited to offer Memory Café Sing-Alongs, warm and welcoming events for those with memory loss or cognitive changes and their care partners. Enjoy an hour of familiar songs led by NSM faculty Joe Reid followed by refreshments and friendly conversation.​​​​​

 

Free to attend and open to all, no diagnosis needed. Music, community, and treats await—come and sing along with us!

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RSVP by filling out our form below or calling (617) 492-8105.  (Please note: NSM does not have an accessible bathroom; our bathroom is up one flight of stairs, and our building does not have an elevator.)​

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Wednesdays, 1:00–2:00pm


November 11, 2026
December 2, 2026
January 6, 2027
February 3, 2027
March 3, 2027
April 7, 2027
May 5, 2027
June 9, 2027
July 7, 2027
August 4, 2027


Tuition: FREE

Ensembles

community-chorus

NSM Community Chorus

Instructor: Rachael Chagat

The NSM Community Chorus is a welcoming, non-auditioned ensemble for adult singers of all experience levels who enjoy making music in a supportive and engaging environment. Whether you are returning to singing after many years or are discovering choral music for the first time, you are invited to join us.


Through weekly rehearsals, singers develop healthy vocal technique, improve music-reading skills, and build confidence while performing a diverse repertoire that includes classical, folk, spiritual, popular, world music, and seasonal selections. Rehearsals emphasize musical growth, collaboration, and the joy of singing together.


The choir performs in informal and formal concerts throughout the year, providing meaningful opportunities to share music with the community. No audition is required—only a willingness to learn, participate, and enjoy the rewarding experience of singing with others.

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​Wednesdays, 2:00–3:00pm
September 23, 2026 – December 2, 2026 (10 weeks) 
Tuition: $210

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Registration has closed for this class. Please email us if you are interested in future opportunities for this program.

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Early Music Ensemble

Instructor: Anna Griffis

Bring your instrument and join a welcoming ensemble exploring the beauty and variety of Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque music. Open to strings, recorders, viols, and other instruments suited to early repertoire; this ensemble is geared toward intermediate to advanced players. Through shared music-making, participants will develop listening and ensemble skills while gaining insight into the styles and traditions of earlier centuries. The course emphasizes collaboration, curiosity, and enjoyment, creating a supportive environment for musicians who want to deepen their engagement with early music through playing and learning together.

 

Mondays, 7:00–8:00pm
September 14, 2026 – October 26, 2026 (6 weeks)
Tuition: $120

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Registration has closed for this class. Please email us if you are interested in future opportunities for this program.

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early-music
chamber

Chamber Music Ensembles

Chamber Music Coordinator: Seychelle Dunn-Corbin

Open to adult musicians of any level, any instrument, and any genre, the chamber music program for adults allows students to grow their musical skills in a small ensemble setting. Coached by members of the NSM faculty, chamber groups have the opportunity to participate in master classes, workshops, and special events, all while exploring new repertoire and ensemble techniques in a social and relaxed atmosphere. Performance opportunities are also available for groups interested in recitals and concerts.

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If you are interested in being placed in an ensemble, please complete the form below and submit a $60 deposit by September 14. 

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Students will be placed in groups & paired with a coach by October 3 with an aim to begin the week of October 11. 

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chamberjam

Monthly Chamber Jams

Chamber Music Coordinator: Seychelle Dunn-Corbin

Get ready to groove and jam with us on your instrument of choice. Each Chamber Jam session will feature music with a unique theme. This informal evening is a chance to get acquainted with some new music and some new musicians. Music will be emailed in advance to registered participants, so no sightreading is required. Mark your calendars, grab your instruments, and let’s make some music together!

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Sundays, 12:00–1:30pm

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November 15, 2026 — Intention & Gratitude
December 13, 2026 — Winter Solstice
February 7, 2027 — Rhythms of Resistance & Resilience
March 7, 2027 — March Madness
April 4, 2027 — In Bloom
May 2, 2027 — Cabinet of Wonder

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Tuition: FREE, in celebration of our 50th anniversary

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Please RSVP so we know to expect you! We’ll send you the sheet music in advance so you can prepare your part. ALL instruments are welcome.

 

Don’t see your instrument listed in the score? No worries! Feel free to learn any part that looks good to you or contact chambermusic@newschoolofmusic.org and we'll help you choose. Have a piece in mind? Email us a week before a session, and we’ll try to include it in the lineup.

 

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