Ensembles

For students looking to take their music skills to the next level, AMS Outreach Ensembles provide young musicians the opportunity to learn, rehearse, and perform as a band.

Ensemble directors work with students to create a unique set of songs each semester that best suits their interests, skills, and goals.  Students entering the program should have some experience on their instrument, and be able to read sheet music, tab, and/or chord charts. Previous experience playing in a band is welcome, but not required. Our directors walk students through first steps of playing a few chords together, through putting on a full concert.

AMS ensembles have graced the stages of The Orange Peel, Downtown After Five, and Isis Music Hall. Students will also participate in a community outreach concert, using music to bring joy to those in need in our community.  Sites include hospitals, assisted living centers, and homeless shelters. Through this experience, students learn the valuable lesson of giving back, and also earn volunteer hours for school!

RETURNING: A Capella Club, led by Whitney Moore:

Placement auditions Tues. Feb. 6, 6:30pm. SIGN UP ONLINE HERE. Prepare an a capella verse and chorus of any song. You will be asked to vocalize and sing patterns, but you will not be required to read music. A Capella Club repertoire will include a wide range of contemporary music.
Rehearses every Tuesday, 6:30pm-8:00pm. Ages 13-18.

NEW: String Ensemble, led by Jason McCoy:

Open to any violin, viola, cello, or bass student age 7 and up, with at least 6 months of playing experience.
Rehearses every Monday, 6:30pm-7:30pm. GO HERE for more info.

Minør, (a.k.a. AMS Rock Band) led by Alec Fehl:

9th – 12th grade students playing classic and contemporary rock music.
Rehearses every Saturday, 10:00 am-12:00 pm.

Vinyl Crossroads, led by Gabrielle Tee:

9th – 12th grade students playing classic and contemporary pop/rock music.
Rehearses every other Saturday, 1:30-3:30 pm.

Sudden Destiny, led by Gabrielle Tee:

6th- 10th grade students playing classic and contemporary pop/rock music.
Rehearses every other Saturday, 3:30-5:30 pm.

A Few Loose Screws, led by Andy John:

6th to 10th grade students playing classic and contemporary rock music.
Rehearses every Thursday, 6:45-7:45 pm.

Paradiddles, led by Kylie Brown:

4th to 7th grade students playing classic and contemporary pop music.
Rehearses every Friday, 4:30-5:30 pm.

Rock Band, led by Juan Holladay:

Middle school students learning classic and contemporary rock music.
Rehearses every Wednesday, 7:00-8:00 pm.

Jazz Band, led by Jason Moore:

INACTIVE AS OF JAN. 2018. Junior and high school students playing standard jazz tunes and improvising.

Faculty-led student groups also perform as jazz combos, classical string duos, trios, and quartets, solo piano, and classical voice with piano accompaniment.

What To Expect and How To Join

• Ensembles welcome all instruments and skill levels, including acoustic and electric guitar, ukulele, bass, piano/keyboards, percussions/drums, vocals, wind, brass, and string instruments.
• Private lessons are recommended, but not required, to prepare for auditions, rehearsals, and performances. AMS can recommend a great teacher for your instrument and learning style.
• Ensemble membership requires dedicated participation. Students are expected to be in attendance for all rehearsals and performances.
• To audition, or for any questions, contact Gabrielle Tee, AMS Program Manager, at gabrielle@ashevillemusicschool.org or call (828) 252-6244. Most ensembles welcome new members throughout the year.