Transforming Lessons into Artistry
At Hoff-Barthelson Music School, private lessons are just the beginning. Every student enrolled in private instruction—whether a young beginner, a seasoned teen musician, or an enthusiastic adult—is invited into a vibrant world of performance opportunities that are unmatched in scope and depth.
We believe that performance is essential to musical growth. That’s why our Performance Program is designed to give students frequent, varied, and supportive experiences on stage and in the classroom that help them build confidence, technical mastery, and expressive freedom.
A Comprehensive, Performance-Driven Approach
From the first notes in a practice room to the final bow on stage, students at HBMS are immersed in a culture of performance. Recitals, master classes, workshops, festivals, and community concerts are not occasional add-ons—they are core components of the learning experience.
- Student Recitals are offered weekly throughout the school year, providing frequent opportunities for students to perform when they are musically and personally ready. No two students progress at the same pace, and our recital program honors that by encouraging performance at moments of genuine readiness and confidence.
- Master Classes offer the opportunity to perform for and learn from distinguished guest artists, offering fresh insights and perspectives.
- Community Concerts bring music beyond our walls and into the local community, instilling a sense of service and joy through performance.
- Festivals and Special Events, including our signature “Music of Our Time” Contemporary Festival and themed recital series, challenge and inspire students to explore new repertoire and ideas.
- The Annual Concerto Competition gives advanced students the thrilling opportunity to perform as soloists with orchestra—an unforgettable artistic milestone.
Workshops: Building Skills and Confidence
Performance Workshops—held several times a week—serve as essential stepping stones for all students.
These relaxed, small-group settings offer an invaluable space to:
- Practice performing in front of peers and teachers
- Experiment with interpretation and presentation
- Receive constructive feedback
- Prepare for upcoming recitals or master classes
Students are grouped by age and level for age-appropriate development:
- Informals (ages 5–12)
- Teen Workshops (ages 12+)
- Hybrid Workshops (all ages)
These sessions are not recitals—they are dynamic, supportive classes led by faculty, with piano accompaniment provided for rehearsed pieces. Parents do not attend, allowing students to focus fully on the music and their peers.
Participation in a workshop is required prior to any formal recital, helping every student feel prepared, supported, and excited to share their music.
A Program for All Ages
While much of the Performance Program is designed with K–12 students in mind, adult students also benefit from meaningful performance opportunities, including workshops and recitals tailored to adult learners. The joy of sharing music and growing through performance is something we believe belongs to everyone—at every stage of life.
Why It Matters
Performance isn’t just about playing the right notes—it’s about learning to share music with confidence, clarity, and joy. Like any skill, performing takes time and practice. Each time a student steps on stage—whether in a small workshop or a formal recital—they strengthen their ability to focus, communicate, and connect with others through their music.
At Hoff-Barthelson, we provide a supportive, low-pressure environment where students grow into confident performers at their own pace. With each experience, they become more comfortable, more expressive, and more resilient—skills that benefit them both as musicians and individuals.
Whether it’s your first time performing or your hundredth, you’ll find guidance, encouragement, and a community to help you shine.
