Performances + Events
NEC Prep Classes
A musical home for growing artists.
NEC Prep classes offer dynamic group learning experiences for students from infancy through age 18. Designed to foster artistic discipline, creative growth, and musical excellence, these classes provide structured pathways for students to explore and deepen their musicianship in a supportive and engaging environment.
Registration for Spring 2026 is still open for select classes. 2026–2027 registration opens later this spring!
Students and Families Welcome
Prep classes are open to students ages 0–18, plus some offerings that welcome older participants and families. These classes are perfect for:
- Young children beginning musical exploration
- School-age students building ensemble and theory skills
- Teens refining artistic identity and preparing for advanced study
- Families seeking shared musical experiences together
Theory class taught by Michael H. Weinstein.
“My son was inspired to pay attention to the artistry and emotional expression present in music. Through his teacher’s guidance, he was shown how even a simple song can be brought to life with different colors, feelings, and musical character.”
PREP PARENT
Core Values
LEADERSHIP
We empower students to lead with confidence, collaboration, and artistic integrity.
CURIOUSITY
We inspire students to question, discover, and deepen their musical understanding.
EXPLORATION
We encourage students to explore boldly, expand their artistry, and embrace new possibilities.
Why NEC Prep?
Curriculum rooted in artistic discipline and creative growth.
Aligned with NEC’s College curriculum, classes emphasize project-based learning and real-world application. Faculty tailor learning to encourage both technical foundation and expressive performance.
Flexible and inclusive pathways.
Students may take individual classes, combine them with private lessons and ensembles, or pursue certificate programs.
Connection to NEC’s rich musical environment.
Participants benefit from interaction with world-class teacher-artists, performance opportunities, and access to NEC’s vibrant music community
Explore Musical Areas
NEC Prep offers classes in a variety of musical areas — from early music and classical traditions to jazz and contemporary musical arts.
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Develop essential musicianship skills — rhythm, ear training, notation, improvisation, ensemble playing, and creative expression.
- Explore diverse musical genres and methods — from Suzuki early childhood approaches to jazz, composition, world traditions, and classical fundamentals.
- Learn within a supportive community of peers and expert faculty who inspire confidence and artistic growth.
Classes that introduce rhythm, melody, movement, and musical awareness for the youngest learners.
Group ensembles and collaborative experiences in roots music, Celtic traditions, guided jams, and jazz theory.
Sequential theory and aural skills classes, composition seminars, and improvisation experiences.
Programs in piano seminars, voice lab and diction, winds, ukulele introduction, and performance workshops.
How to Join NEC Prep
Whether your family is joining our community for the first time or your young musician is continuing their journey, our How to Join page is the starting point for students of all ages and levels to find their place at NEC Prep.
LEARN MORE ABOUT:
- Enrollment Types: Understand placement vs. registration-based enrollment.
- How to Enroll: A step-by-step roadmap for joining a class, ensemble, or private lessons.
- Audition Details: What to expect from the audition process for placement-based programs
- Frequently Asked Questions: Practical information for new and returning families.
