The Merry-Go-Round program introduces children to the world of musical sound, instruments, and movement in an innovative and interactive way. Create simple instruments, see how they work, and make music to answer some big questions! How are musical sounds produced? What makes them sound louder or softer? How can we tell a violin from a piano? Movement activities throughout the program using European Dalcroze Eurhythmics will encourage students to listen deeply and respond to music in an instinctive way, while developing an understanding of musical elements and working with classmates. Let’s make music (and instruments) together!

Tuition: $650 (36 classes)

Schedule: Saturdays 12:00pm

Start Date: September 13, 2025

*This program is a precursor to our popular Carousel Program, but it is not a prerequisite

A one-of-a-kind comprehensive full-year music program consisting of 36 weekly classes introduces children to singing, piano, guitar, orchestral instruments, and NEW this year: percussion! The Carousel Program has proven to be the most popular program in Europe. It runs from September to June and is divided into 3-4 week modules exploring different instruments with a connecting element of movement and music theory, rudiments throughout. Earn a certificate of completion and end the year with a creative music making session combining all concepts learned!

Faculty: Mixed

Tuition: $985 (36 classes)
Schedule: Saturday 1:00pm & 2:00pm
Start: September 13, 2025

Get a head-start on clarinet! The Beginner Clarinet Class teaches your child to play the clarinet in an environment that shapes their imagination, develops their creativity, and teaches them how to cooperate with others to make wonderful music. Children will learn the basics of clarinet playing, play fun songs together, and learn how to perform. Instruments are provided. Classes are capped at 6 children – reserve your spot today!

Faculty: Patty Shaw
Tuition: $269 (15-week Term)
Time: Tuesday 3:30pm – 4:15pm
Start: Sept 30, 2025 (Term 1)  |  Jan 27, 2026 (Term 2)

The Conservatory is pleased to offer music lessons for following the Suzuki Talent Education philosophy. The Suzuki method was developed by Shinichi Suzuki in Japan in the 1940’s and is based on the idea that every child has the potential to achieve a high level of proficiency and personal development. Music is initially taught through the mother tongue approach and instruction is carried out in a positive manner that reinforces accomplishments, builds confidence, and is fun. The repertoire is designed to build skills in small sequential steps that are easy for young children and let each child progress at their own pace.

Our Suzuki teachers are members of the Suzuki Association of the Americas and committed to a high standard of instruction, helping our students – together with their parents – achieve their maximum potential. They are connected with the international Suzuki community and regularly participate in workshops and institutes around the world.

Our Suzuki students receive private and group lessons weekly. The fee for group classes is included in our Suzuki Program fee. Our Suzuki students participate in regular studio recitals, graduation recitals, and General Recitals promoted by the Maritime Conservatory. Our Suzuki groups are regularly performing at special events at the Central Library, Northwood Home Care and IWK events.

Suzuki Violin

Faculty: Lauren Klein, Andre Pretzel, and Victoria Ioannou
Tuition (Group Classes only): $225/term (18 classes)*
Schedule: Saturdays

• Pre-Twinklers and 1A – 12:15pm – 1:00pm
• Book 1B – 2A – 12:15pm – 1:00pm
• Book 2B and 3 – 1:00pm – 1:45pm
• Books 4 and up – 1:00pm – 1:45pm

Start: September 20, 2025

Suzuki Guitar, Cello and Flute

Welcome to the Prelude Orchestra, the first opportunity to join the String Orchestra family at the MCPA! In this ensemble string players at RCM grade 2 will begin their orchestral journey – learning to play with other musicians. In our weekly rehearsals we will build the experience of playing in a group with different sections.

In addition to our weekly rehearsals, there will be opportunities to perform through the year, and some concerts together with the Presto and Chamber Orchestras, showcasing the full spectrum of orchestral development for children at the MCPA through to the end of high school.

Faculty: Susannë Brown

Level: RCM Grade 2
Tuition: $205/ year
Schedule: Mondays 5:00pm – 5:45pm
Start: September 8, 2025

The Presto String Orchestra is a great place to meet other young musician friends and have fun playing together! This ensemble will provide an upbeat and challenging collaborative experience for young string musicians wanting to explore the world of the string orchestra. Participants will meet weekly to play stimulating repertoire from the string orchestral repertoire as a full ensemble, in sectional rehearsals, and in occasional joint rehearsals with the other Conservatory orchestras. This group will train string players in all of the skills needed to move into the Conservatory Chamber Orchestra. In addition to weekly rehearsals, there will be performance opportunities alongside the Chamber and Adult Orchestras, providing a delightful musical and multigenerational experience! 

Faculty: Susanne Brown

Level: RCM grades 3-5
Tuition: $225/ year
Schedule: Mondays 6:00pm – 7:15pm

Start: September 8, 2025