Business Details
47 Years
experience
Your Premier Music Education Destination in New London, CT
Founded in 1979, Thames Valley Music School has established itself as a premier institution for musical education in Southeastern Connecticut. Located on the campus of Connecticut College in New London, our school provides high-quality instruction in piano, stringed and wind instruments, percussion, voice, and music theory. We offer programs tailored to students of all ages and skill levels, including private lessons, ensembles, and specialized orchestral opportunities. Our mission is to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for music through artistic growth and performance. With a faculty of accomplished professionals, many affiliated with esteemed institutions and performing ensembles, we emphasize inclusivity, community, and excellence.Our programs, such as the Thames Valley Youth Symphony and summer sessions, provide diverse opportunities for students to develop their talents. We are committed to fostering a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equity in music education. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we ensure accessibility through financial aid and discounts for families. Our dedication to quality instruction and community engagement has made us a trusted leader in music education for over four decades.
Services
Private Lessons
Youth Symphony
Chamber Ensembles
Summer Programs
String Ensembles
Repertory Orchestra
Fiddles on Fire
Brass n Groove Band
Faculty Instruction
Music Theory
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years of specialized music education experience since 1979
- Our faculty includes professionals from area colleges and regional orchestras
- We provide programs for all skill levels from beginner to advanced musicians
- Our inclusive community celebrates diversity through music education
- We offer financial aid and discounts to ensure accessible music instruction
Services
Private Lessons
We offer personalized music instruction for piano, string instruments, wind instruments, percussion, and voice. Lessons run September through June with summer sessions available. Students receive tailored guidance from experienced instructors to develop technical skills and musical expression. Our program accommodates all ages and skill levels from beginners to advanced musicians seeking professional development.
Thames Valley Youth Symphony
This advanced orchestral program provides performance opportunities for talented high school musicians. Participants engage in professional-level rehearsals and performances twice annually. The symphony promotes artistic excellence through challenging repertoire and collaborative music-making. Membership requires audition and commitment to weekly rehearsals during the fall and spring semesters for students striving for musical mastery.
Summer Programs
Our summer sessions maintain musical development through specialized ensemble programs. Offerings include Fiddles on Fire, Brass n Groove Band, and Summer Pops Orchestra with focused instruction in specific genres. These programs run for 6-8 weeks with expert faculty guidance. Summer programs emphasize performance skills, ensemble coordination, and musical creativity in a collaborative environment for students grades 7 and above.
String Ensembles
We provide structured ensemble experiences for string players at different proficiency levels. The String Ensemble and Repertory Orchestra develop orchestral skills through progressive repertoire. Participants build technical mastery, sight-reading abilities, and collaborative musicianship. These programs emphasize proper technique, musical interpretation, and performance preparation through weekly rehearsals during the academic year.
Faculty Instruction
Our faculty comprises professional musicians with affiliations to regional colleges and performing ensembles. Instructors specialize in various instruments and musical disciplines, providing comprehensive training in classical and contemporary styles. The teaching staff includes members of the United States Coast Guard Band and Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra. Students benefit from personalized instruction grounded in professional expertise and pedagogical excellence.
People
Alexey Shabalin
Youth Symphony Conductor
Professional conductor with extensive experience leading orchestral programs for advanced musicians. Specializes in developing artistic excellence through collaborative music-making. Has guided the Thames Valley Youth Symphony since its inception in 2004.
Erin Nyren
Flute Instructor
Experienced woodwind specialist providing expert instruction in flute performance techniques. Actively contributes to the school's chamber ensemble programs. Maintains a focus on proper breath control and articulation techniques for developing woodwind players.
Yu-Hsin Wu
Cello Instructor
Professional cellist offering comprehensive instruction in string techniques and repertoire. Participates in faculty recitals and ensemble performances. Emphasizes proper posture and bowing techniques for students at all proficiency levels.
Questions
What age groups do your programs accommodate?
Our programs serve students of all ages from young children to adults, with specialized offerings for different developmental stages.
Are there performance opportunities for students?
Yes! We offer recitals, concerts, and ensemble performances throughout the year including two major Youth Symphony concerts annually.
Do you offer financial assistance options?
We provide financial aid based on need and offer discounts for multiple family members, senior citizens, and Connecticut College faculty.
What instruments can I study at TVMS?
We offer instruction in piano, strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, voice, and music theory with specialized faculty for each discipline.
How do I register for programs?
Registration is available online or via PDF form with payment options including cash, check, and electronic transfers through PayPal or QuickBooks.
Are summer programs available for continued study?
Our summer sessions include specialized ensembles like Fiddles on Fire and Brass n Groove Band with focused instruction and performance opportunities.
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