ESM Enrichment Program
ESM’s enrichment programs aim to round out the musical experience of our students. All enrichment programs are taught by ESM faculty who specialize in these fields of enrichment programming. All courses run subject to enrolment.
Schedule: Mondays at PLAST, alongside ESM group classes.
Rhythmic Foundations 1, 2 & 3
Rhythmic Foundation classes (starting ages 3-4), provide a guided progression through three levels of classes based on Dalcroze eurhythmics. These classes will teach concepts of rhythm, structure and musical expression using movement of the whole body. The three levels of Rhythm Foundations will gradually incorporate the movement of eurhythmics with reading and ensemble preparation.
Orchestra
ESM has a strong Orchestra and Chamber Music program consisting of various levels of orchestras and multiple chamber groups. In addition to being an enjoyable endeavour, ensemble playing further develops teamwork, observational skills and music reading skills. Students are placed in ESM orchestras by ESM faculty, based on skill level and experience.
Orchestra Prep
A beginning classroom experience for students in reading music as a group and learning to play together using multiple parts. This contrasts ESM Core group classes, where students work on unison playing and play from memory.
Chamber Music
String quartets, trios, and quintets are highly specialized and focused types of ensemble playing. Chamber groups are assembled by the ESM Directors according to instrument, level, and experience and are coached by ESM faculty. Each chamber group works closely with their coach to study specific repertoire in-depth and hone ensemble skills to a performance-ready level.
Fiddle Club
Fiddle Club focuses on aural skills, improvisation, and ensemble-playing skills while having loads of fun learning traditional fiddle tunes.
Music Theory
Theory Prep is a fun and engaging introduction to theory at the RCM Preparatory level through Level 2. Material covered includes basic notation, pitch, rhythm, meter, scales, intervals and basic chords. Games and hands-on tools (spinners, dice, chips) are used for note recognition, rhythm recognition, ear training and simple melody writing.
Theory Fundamental 1,2 and 3 classes are based on the current RCM Theory Syllabus. Through written exercises and class discussions, students learn analytical skills and vocabulary that develop their musical literacy and help deepen their understanding and enjoyment of music. Emphasis is made on building strong connections between the written (visual) and aural (audible) aspects of music.
Students are placed by ESM theory teachers according to prior theory class experience, by theory placement tests when there is no previous theory experience, and by consultation with the ESM faculty.
Community Enrichment Program
Etobicoke Suzuki Music’s enrichment programs aim to round out the musical experience of students. Our popular orchestra program provides a strong foundation for ensemble skills. In addition, Music Theory is offered to complement the ensemble enrichment programs, while the Fiddle program enhances violin playing skills in a fun environment. All enrichment programs are taught by ESM faculty who specialize in these fields of enrichment programming.
Enrollment in ESM’s core programs is not required for Orchestra, Fiddle and Theory courses. For detailed descriptions of each course, please read the ‘ESM Enrichment Program’ section above.
Eligibility Requirements
Orchestra Prep
- Minimum RCM violin Level 1 or Suzuki violin Book 1
- Minimum RCM cello Preparatory Level or Suzuki cello Book 1
- Basic note reading and rhythm
Tutti Junior Orchestra
- Minimum RCM violin Level 2 or Suzuki violin Book 2+
- Minimum RCM cello Level 1 or Suzuki cello Book 2+
- Good knowledge of note reading and rhythm
Sinfonietta Senior Orchestra
- Minimum RCM violin level 3-5 or Suzuki violin Book 3+
- Minimum RCM cello level 2-4 or Suzuki cello Book 3+
- Strong knowledge of note reading and rhythm
Fiddle
- Ages 8+
- Minimum RCM violin Level 2 or Suzuki violin Book 2
Music Theory
Theory Prep
- Ages 8+
- RCM Preparatory to Level 2
Theory Fundamentals 1
- RCM Levels 3-5
Theory Fundamentals 2
- RCM Levels 6-8
Students are placed by ESM theory teachers according to prior theory class experience, by theory placement tests when there is no previous theory experience, and by consultation with the ESM faculty.