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Music for Everyone,
for a Lifetime

One of only 17 accredited community music schools in the U.S, teaching in the heart of your neighborhood for over four decades.

Our faculty have performed on international stages and taught at leading conservatories. They believe music belongs to everyone. At WCM, you don’t have to choose between excellence and accessability. Here, they go hand in hand.

Explore Your Musical Journey

Students taking ukulele class at the Washington Conservatory of Music

Group Classes

Discover the joy of learning music in a collaborative and supportive environment. Whether you’re just getting started, mastering an instrument or learning to harmonize, our expert instructors will guide you every step of the way.

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Student in a private flute lesson

Private Lessons

Learn with one-on-one instruction at your own pace in a nurturing environment. We are dedicated to fostering your lifelong love of music and helping you achieve your personal musical goals.

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Students taking a violin lesson outside at Glen Echo Park

Music Classes & Camps​

Unlock your musical potential and immerse yourself in the joy of learning with our engaging Music Classes and Camps. Our programs offer something for all skill levels, from young beginners exploring their first notes to seasoned musicians looking to refine their craft.

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Recent Events

January 31 @ 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Guest Masterclass: Brian Ganz, Piano

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January 30 @ 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Guest Lecture Recital: Piano Talk with Brian Ganz

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January 17 @ 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm

Capital Horns Concert

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January 17 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Faculty Chamber Music Series: Concert with Miron Yampolsky, Cellist

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January 16 @ 10:00 am - 11:30 am

Guest Masterclass: Alicia Kosack, Flute

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January 15 - January 18

Winter Chamber Music Academy

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View Calendar

Registration Now Open

Introduction to Conducting

Join Julien Benichou, Conductor of the Accord Symphony Orchestra, for an engaging Introduction to Conducting class. This hands-on course explores the fundamentals of baton technique, score reading, and leadership on the podium. Whether you’re an aspiring conductor or a curious musician, you’ll develop essential skills to interpret and communicate musical ideas effectively. With Julien’s expert guidance, gain insight into the art of conducting and the collaborative process with an ensemble. No prior conducting experience required—just a passion for music and a desire to lead!

Instructor: Julien Benichou

Schedule

Tuesdays | Sep 8-Dec 15, 2026 | 7:00 PM-8:00 PM
Class Details

Intermediate/Advanced Irish Fiddle

This class is designed for more experienced violin students and those who have taken Introductory Irish Fiddle who want to continue their studies and learn more advanced and complex tunes. Field trips to local Irish sessions. Students must provide their own instrument. Minimum age 18. 15 sessions. Sep 16-Jan 6, 2027. Note: no class on 11/25 or 12/30. More info: 301.320.2770; washingtonconservatory.org.

Instructor: Mitch Fanning

Schedule

Wednesdays | Sep 16, 2026-Jan 6, 2027 | 7:30 PM-8:30 PM | No class: Nov 25, 2026, Dec 30, 2026
Class Details
Irish Fiddle class

Advanced Beginners – Irish Flute and Tin Whistle

Combined class for advanced beginning players. Some basic knowledge of the instrument, fingering, simple scales, and simple tunes is required. Explore the rich mostly aural tradition of Irish music and expand your repertoire. Irish tunes learned by ear: jigs, reels, hornpipes, polkas. Learn about fingering, ornamentation, breath control, intonation, basic repertoire and listening recommendations. Bring Irish flute or tin whistle in key of D and recording device.
More info: Tinaeck@yahoo.com. Minimum age 13. 10 sessions.

Instructor: Tina Eck

Schedule

Wednesdays | Oct 14-Dec 16, 2026 | 7:00 PM-8:00 PM | No class: Nov 25, 2026
Class Details
Irish Flute and tin whistle class at the Washington Conservatory of Music

Intermediate/Advanced Irish Flute and Tin Whistle

Take your Irish flute and tin whistle playing to the next level in this dynamic class led by renowned musician Tina Eck. Designed for intermediate and advanced players, this course focuses on refining technique, rhythm, breath control, ornamentation, phrasing, and various styles within traditional Irish music. Students will expand their repertoire with jigs, reels, marches, waltzes, hornpipes, flings while developing greater fluency in playing by ear. This class is also designed to bring students to a level to be able to join one of the many informal Irish sessions in the DMV area or Ireland. Bring an Irish flute or tin whistle in the key of D and a recording device.
More info: Tinaeck@yahoo.com Minimum age 13. 10 sessions

Instructor: Tina Eck

Schedule

Wednesdays | Oct 14-Dec 16, 2026 | 8:00 PM-9:00 PM | No class: Nov 25, 2026
Class Details
Irish Flute and tin whistle class at the Washington Conservatory of Music

Introductory Irish Fiddle

For adult violinists who are interested in learning more about traditional Irish fiddling. Explore various rhythms and tune types, experiment with ornamentation and bowing principles while learning jigs, reels, hornpipes, mazurkas, highlands, barn dances, and more. Great ear training, good fun! Field trips to local Irish sessions. Students must provide their own instrument. Minimum age 18. 15 sessions. Sep 16-Jan 6, 2027. Note: no class on 11/25 or 12/30.
More info: 301.320.2770; washingtonconservatory.org.

Instructor: Mitch Fanning

Schedule

Wednesdays | Sep 16, 2026-Jan 6, 2027 | 8:30 PM-9:30 PM | No class: Nov 25, 2026, Dec 30, 2026
Class Details
Irish Fiddle class

Chamber Music I – Best of Baroque

Explore the beauty and brilliance of Baroque chamber music in a welcoming, supportive environment designed for adult musicians and advancing students alike. This bi-weekly chamber music class will focus on some of the era’s most beloved repertoire by composers such as Bach, Handel, Telemann, and Vivaldi while building ensemble skills, musical confidence, and collaboration in a relaxed setting. Participants will rehearse and perform in small ensembles with guidance from the instructor in a “safe space” atmosphere that encourages growth, creativity, and enjoyment of making music together. WCM will coach rehearsal sessions for students.

Schedule

Fridays | Sep 11-Dec 18, 2026 | 5:00 PM-6:30 PM | No class: Nov 27, 2026
Class Details

Singing Traditional Irish Folk Songs (Age: 15 and above)

For singers of all levels! Curious about resonance, ornaments and phrasing for a traditional Irish sound? Learn techniques specific to Irish Music while gathering a repertoire of traditional Celtic songs. Use the whole body as an instrument and learn tools to relax for better sound and more joy!
More info: 301.320.2770; washingtonconservatory.org.| 10 sessions.

Instructor: Eileen Estes

Schedule

Class Details
Singing Irish folk songs class at the Washington Conservatory of Music

Introduction to Singing for Adults

Discover Your Voice! Yes—you can sing, and it’s never too late to start. In this fun and supportive group class, you’ll explore your voice for optimal tone, range, and vocal health. Learn how posture, breathing and articulation can enhance your sound and help you stay in tune. You’ll also develop foundational music skills, including note and pitch reading, and learn vocal techniques that apply to every style of music. (15 sessions)

Instructor: Jennifer Suess

Schedule

Mondays | Sep 14-Dec 21, 2026 | 6:30 PM-7:30 PM
Class Details
Voice class at the Washington Conservatory of Music

Advanced Beginner Group Ukulele Age 5-14

In this exciting continuation, young ukulele players will grow their skills through new chords, fun strumming patterns, and easy songs. Session 2 reinforces what students already know while introducing new musical concepts in a creative and engaging way. Games, group playing, and performance opportunities help build confidence, listening skills, and a love for music.

Instructor: Wednesday Coleman

Schedule

Mondays | Sep 14-Dec 21, 2026 | 6:30 PM-7:30 PM | No class: Nov 23, 2026
Class Details

Advanced Beginner Group Ukulele Age 15+

Advanced Beginner ukulele players focuses on strengthening technique and musical understanding. Students will learn additional chords, improve strumming patterns, and begin exploring rhythm variations and song arrangement. This class encourages creativity while helping students feel comfortable playing along with others and performing simple songs with confidence.

Instructor: Wednesday Coleman

Schedule

Mondays | Sep 14-Dec 21, 2026 | 7:30 PM-8:30 PM | No class: Nov 23, 2026
Class Details

Conservatory Kids Level 1 (Ages 1-3 years)

Introduce your little one to the joy of music! This engaging early childhood music class provides a fun and nurturing environment where young children (ages 1–3) explore rhythm, movement, and singing through playful activities. Led by professional early childhood music educator Ernesto Lima Parets, this class lays the foundation for future musical learning in a supportive and interactive setting.

Instructor: Ernesto Parets

Schedule

Saturdays | Sep 5-Dec 12, 2026 | 10:00 AM-10:45 AM
Class Details
music class for kids at the Washington Conservatory of Music

Conservatory Kids Level 2 (Ages 18 months-5 years)

Designed for children ages 18 months to 5 years, this mixed-level early childhood music class fosters a love of music through movement, singing, and hands-on exploration. Led by experienced educator Ernesto Lima Parets, children will build fundamental musical skills while developing coordination, listening, and social interaction in a fun and engaging environment. Perfect for siblings or friends of different ages to enjoy together!

Instructor: Ernesto Parets

Schedule

Saturdays | Sep 5-Dec 12, 2026 | 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Class Details
toddler playing marimba

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