Ensembles

Members of the Prelude Level are introduced to the thrilling world of music in a fun and interactive class designed to open up the ear and explore the possibilities of musical expression through listening and moving. Basic vowel formation, proper posture and the beginnings of breathing technique are taught, while the foundation of Kodály technique is set. Prelude Level students have the privilege of working with the following esteemed instructors—

Kurt Cereske conductor
Dr. Hiroyo Hatsuyama associate pianist
Judith Chan Kodály Level 1 instructor

Members of the Minuet Level are introduced to the formal structure of a choral ensemble—seating, rehearsal protocol, choral tone and blend. Musical terms are taught and used freely in an environment where students are encouraged to be curious, ask questions and seek answers. Vocal technique, vowel formation, breathing, diction and phrasing are emphasized in order to create a beautiful and professional sound, while sight-singing intervals and rhythms are practiced in Kodály training. Minuet Level students have the privilege of working with the following esteemed instructors—

Dr. Pamela Blackstone conductor
Dr. Hiroyo Hatsuyama associate pianist
Judith Chan Kodály Level 2 instructor

Members of the Sonata Level are already expected to possess basic skills and knowledge in the areas of tone, vowel formation, diction, breathing technique, and musicianship. From here, students are taught the beginnings of advanced choral and vocal skills, including singing in 2 and 3-part harmony within the context of more sophisticated repertoire that includes texts in foreign languages. The beginnings of advanced Kodály technique are also employed as part of the curriculum. Singers at this level are introduced to the professional stage, with performances at The Broad Stage, The Edye Second Space, Our Lady of the Angels Cathedral, and other top venues. Sonata Level students have the privilege of working with the following esteemed personnel—

Dr. Pamela Blackstone conductor
Dr. Hiroyo Hatsuyama associate pianist
Judith Chan Kodály Level 3 instructor
Kurt Cereske Kodály Level 4 instructor
Luke McEndarfer Music Theory instructor

Premier Ensemble members are expected to perform at the professional level upon acceptance, and already have a clear concept of beautiful tone, accurate intonation, crisp diction, and gorgeous musical phrasing, in addition to possessing experience-based confidence and assertiveness as a solo and group performer. Students are taught the highest levels of sophisticated choral technique that is utilized in all of the world's finest adult choruses within the context of complex music featuring 2, 3 and 4-part harmony. Singers at this level participate in multiple performances and projects throughout the year at professional venues such as The Broad Stage, The Edye Second Space, Royce Hall, Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Grand Performances at the California Plaza, Our Lady of the Angels Cathedral, and other professional venues. In addition, advanced Kodály technique and an eclectic range of musicianship courses (including conducting, composition, ear training, music theory, performance practice, and yoga for singers) are included as part of the curriculum. Premier Ensemble students have the privilege of working with the following esteemed instructors—

Luke McEndarfer conductor
Dr. Vivian Liu principal rehearsal pianist
Judith Chan Kodály Level 5 instructor
Kurt Cereske Kodály Level 6 instructor
Dr. Pamela Blackstone Yoga for Singers instructor
Liane Schirmer Acting and Stage instructor
Cristina Demiany Presentation instructor
Michael Dean Vocal Masterclass presenter

Each Fall, members of the Premier Ensemble audition for membership in the NCC Scholars program—a special group of 12-16 vocalists that meets weekly on Monday afternoons to prepare for exclusive projects and high profile performance opportunities. Recent Scholars engagements have included solos with the Los Angeles Master Chorale, Los Angeles Opera Company, multiple movie and studio recording projects, as well as a debut performance in New York City. Additionally, members receive college-level vocal coaching in preparation for major solo roles, auditions and possible acceptance to music school.

Luke McEndarfer conductor
Dr. Vivian Liu principal rehearsal pianist