Current Offerings

Private Music Instruction
The Cady School offers one-on-one instruction on all woodwind, brass, string, and percussion instruments, as well as piano, voice, guitar, and bass.  Instruction on specialty instruments, including fiddle, banjo, Irish whistle, and Scottish highland bagpipe, is also available.

Chamber Music
The Cady School believes that ensemble playing is integral to a student's musicianship and is proud to offer a Chamber Music program. Chamber music involves a small ensemble of 2 or more players without a conductor. Only 1-2 years of playing experience and attendance at rehearsals is needed. No chamber music experience is necessary, and all instruments and voices are welcome! Coaches rotate and have included Lisa Nielson, Susan Gierthy, Bryan Cady, Greg Danis, Chris Russell, and Beth Roorda.

Advanced Musicianship Class
Students considering a career in music will benefit from this dynamic class, which is designed to give students a "real life" experience of what it means to be a music major in college.  The class includes assignments and instruction in music theory, music history, sight singing, and ear training.  Students also participate in a monthly repertoire class for which they prepare a piece of music to perform in front of the class and faculty.  Guest speakers, including faculty from the College of Saint Rose, and alumni from SUNY Fredonia, Berklee, and the Crane School of Music, attend the repertoire class and share their individual experiences.  Students learn about the entry requirements, auditions, and expectations of attending a college music program in a classroom setting with a low student-to-teacher ratio.  Instructors – Lisa Nielson and Susan Gierthy 

Master Class

Master classes are given in a group setting in which all students are invited to participate.  Classes are lead by Master Teachers, who select students to experience a "mini" lesson in front of the class, benefiting all participants.  Topics from previous Master Classes have included such diverse topics as playing techniques, reed-making, instrument care, choosing an instrument, and when to "upgrade” instruments.  Please check the Events page for a list of upcoming Master Class sessions.  Previous Master Teachers – Bill Leary, Susan Gierthy, Ian Golub, Andrew Wheeler, Beth Roorda, Bryan Cady, Chris Russell

Please check back often as new classes may be offered at any time.

Future Offerings

Jazz Improvisation
Individuals will become more comfortable with the art of jazz improvisation as they learn to read and play over the top of chord changes and extend their knowledge of scales and modes.

Young Composers Class
Young composers will better understand the writing process and learn the proper handling of melody, harmony, chord structure, as well as the overall music theory behind composition.

Small Ensembles
The Cady School recognizes that ensemble playing is integral to a student’s musicianship and offers coaching for a variety of small ensembles.  Participation in all small ensembles requires an audition and attendance at weekly rehearsals.  Playing ability comparable to a NYSSMA level 4 is encouraged.