Through our official partnership with the City of San Ramon, we host all of our group classes at the newly renovated Dougherty Station Community Arts Center! With stunning venues and easy registration, it is a perfect location for our unique courses and inspirational teachers to fuel your love of music.
All group class registrations are handled through the City portal as part of our partnership with the City.
If you have any questions or need assistance, fill out the pop-up form on this page, and we will personally reach out to you!
Instructor: Cal
Length: 30min
Minimum Age: 6 months
Maximum Age: 18 months
Price: $249
Maximum Participants: 10
San Ramon Academy of Music presents “Baby and Me: Mini Mozart,” a 10-week course designed to enhance the bond between you and your baby while promoting their early development through music. Led by our experienced instructors, you and your little one will engage in a variety of playful activities, including sensory play, song, and movement, using a range of instruments and materials.
This class is designed for babies aged 4-9 months who are just beginning to explore the world around them. Our expert teachers will guide you through nurturing exercises and activities that stimulate your baby’s brain development, laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning and discovery. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with other like-minded parents in a supportive community.
Instructor: Cal
Length: 30min
Minimum Age: 1.5
Maximum Age: 5
Price: $249
Maximum Participants: 10
Parent and child time is one of your child’s favorite things – AND it’s one of the best things for the developing mind. San Ramon Academy of Music’s ‘Music Exploration’ 10 week course offers a sensory-rich environment to create and strengthen neural pathways, enhance your bond with your child, and help you understand the stages of their development.
Children enjoy exploring, reacting to new sounds, sensations, and environments. They’ll begin to use developmentally appropriate instruments like: shakers, rattles, drums, and tambourines in activities designed to develop both hemispheres of the brain. There’s plenty of side-by-side play with other kids in the class, and you’ll get to move, hum, and dance together, all key inputs into your child’s ability to develop early bonding and social skills.
Welcome to “Fun with Drums and Percussion,” an engaging and dynamic 10 week program designed specifically for children ages 5 to 8. This program is all about making music, developing rhythm skills, and having a blast with various percussion instruments!
This program is perfect for young children who are curious about music and want to explore rhythm in a supportive and energetic environment. Our goal is to foster a love for percussion, build confidence, and have lots of musical fun along the way!
For children ages 5 to 8 who have completed level I. This 10 week course builds a foundational rhythm skills by introducing group play, ensemble collaboration, and performance preparation. On the last day of class, the students will have the opportunity to showcase their progress in an ensemble on stage!
Instructor: Cal
Length: 45min
Minimum Age: 6
Maximum Age: 10
Price: $349
Maximum Participants: 10
Looking to learn piano in a fun and social setting? Join our group piano class offered by San Ramon Academy of Music! This 10 week course is designed to give students an introduction to the piano and the skills necessary to study privately and play in a band or ensemble.
With a focus on developing core keyboard skills such as hand position, note-reading, chord vocabulary, rhythm, and theory, our students will rehearse a repertoire of rock and pop and classical songs. As part of enrollment, students will also receive a lesson and theory book to aid in their learning.
Our experienced instructors will guide your child through each lesson, providing the attention and support they need to succeed. The last week is dedicated to a recital, where your child will have the opportunity to showcase their newfound skills.
Keyboards will be provided for use in class, and if you don’t have a keyboard or piano to practice with at home, we offer rental options at an additional cost (optional).
Don’t miss this chance to introduce your child to the wonderful world of music! Enroll them in our group piano class today and watch as they develop a lifelong love of music.
Supply Fee: Lesson and theory workbooks are provided by San Ramon Academy of Music for $65 collected on the first day of class.
Instructor: Cal
Length: 45min
Minimum Age: 6
Maximum Age: 10
Price: $349
Maximum Participants: 10
This is the Second Level to the San Ramon Academy of Music Beginner Group Piano Class series.
Like in our first course, we’ll continue to focus on developing core keyboard skills such as hand position, note-reading, chord vocabulary, rhythm, and theory. We’ll be rehearsing a repertoire of folk tunes and classical songs to expand your child’s musical abilities.
The 10-week course is tailored towards beginner students (ages 5-8+) who have successfully completed our first level of the beginning course or have prior piano experience. Each week builds upon the previous one using the same lesson and theory book as last semester. The last week is dedicated to a recital showcasing each student’s hard work throughout the program.
And just like in our first course, each class will end with a performance for friends and family to enjoy! Enroll your child in Level 2 of our Beginner Group Piano Class today and watch as they continue to develop a lifelong love of music.
Supply Fee: Lesson and theory workbooks are provided by San Ramon Academy of Music for $65 collected on the first day of class.
Instructor: Cal
Length: 45min
Minimum Age: 6
Maximum Age: 10
Price: $349
Maximum Participants: 10
This is the Third Level to the San Ramon Academy of Music Beginner Group Piano Class series.
Welcome to Piano Ensemble, the next step in your musical journey at San Ramon Academy of Music! Building on the foundational skills from our previous group piano levels, Piano Jam offers a dynamic ensemble experience for students who crave the camaraderie and fun of group learning.
This 10-week course is for students aged 6-10 who have completed Beginner Piano Levels 1 and 2 or have equivalent experience (minimum six months of private lessons). In Piano Jam, students will dive into a diverse repertoire of classical, pop, and rock songs, enhancing their ensemble skills and musical understanding.
Each session will focus on playing ensemble music, with additional activities designed to deepen knowledge of music theory and notation. Our experienced instructors will guide each student through collaborative and engaging learning experiences, promoting not only skill development but also the joy of making music with others.
The highlight of Piano Jam is the recital held at the end of the semester in the Front Row Theatre, where students showcase their growth and achievements. This performance provides a fantastic opportunity for students to experience the thrill of live performance and to celebrate their progress with family and friends.
Classes include the use of keyboards provided at our facility, however, students are required to have an instrument at home for daily practice.
Supply Fee: Lesson and theory workbooks are provided by San Ramon Academy of Music for $65 collected on the first day of class.
Instructor: Courtnee
Length: 45min
Minimum Age: 6
Maximum Age: 10
Price: $349
Maximum Participants: 10
Looking for a fun and inclusive way to develop your singing skills? Join the Beginner Choir course through San Ramon Academy of Music! Led by our world class instructor, you’ll receive expert guidance in proper vocal technique, basic music theory, and general music studies to build a foundation to become a well-rounded musician.
Over 10 weeks, you’ll work with an experienced live accompanist in class to learn a variety of music, including classical, musical theater, and contemporary pieces. And at the end of the course, you’ll have the opportunity to showcase your skills in a recital for friends and family.
With the highest level of instruction available and the opportunity to work with a live accompanist, our Beginner Choir course is truly one-of-a-kind.
Don’t miss this chance to develop your singing skills to last a lifetime. Enroll today!
Supply Fee: We provide our students with course workbooks and a special recital goody bag that includes a custom t-shirt, personalized engraved trophy, and keepsake items. To cover the cost of these materials, we collect a $65 supply fee on the first day of class.
Instructor: Courtnee
Length: 45min
Minimum Age: 11
Maximum Age: 18
Price: $399
Maximum Participants: 10
Is your child interested in singing? Join the San Ramon Youth Choir course at San Ramon Academy of Music! Our fun and inclusive environment is perfect for students of all levels, whether they’re just starting out or have years of experience.
Led by our world class instructor, your child will receive expert guidance in proper vocal technique, basic music theory, and general music studies to build a foundation for becoming a well-rounded musician.
Over 10 weeks, they’ll work with an experienced live accompanist in class to learn a variety of music, including classical, musical theater, and contemporary pieces. And at the end of the course, they’ll have the opportunity to showcase their skills in a recital for friends and family.
Our choir course is not only a great way for your child to develop their singing skills, but also to make friends and connect with other music enthusiasts in a pressure-free and fun environment. Enroll your child today and watch as they discover their love for singing!
Supply Fee: We provide our students with course workbooks and a special recital goody bag that includes a custom t-shirt, personalized engraved trophy, and keepsake items. To cover the cost of these materials, we collect a $65 supply fee on the first day of class.
Instructor: Courtnee
Length: 60min
Minimum Age: 14
Maximum Age: 18
Price: $449
Maximum Participants: 12
Discover the joy of singing and develop your performance skills with our Vocal Technique and Performance course at San Ramon Academy of Music! Whether you’re looking to perform in school musicals, solo performances, competitions, or simply want to improve your singing abilities, our performance-based class is designed for students of all voice types and levels.
In a group setting, you’ll learn the fundamentals of singing, including breathing techniques, stage presentation, and body awareness, to prepare for any future musical endeavors. As part of the course, you’ll also have the opportunity to work with an accompanist for 1-on-1 coaching, giving you personalized guidance and support to help you reach your full potential as a singer.
Our world class instructor will provide specific vocal exercises, methods, and ideas to practice your repertoire, while leading interactive discussions and presenting information from texts and other sources to enhance your understanding of vocal technique and performance.
Throughout the course, full participation is expected, with students moving from group singing to individual, prepared singing in front of the group. And at the end of the course, you’ll have the chance to showcase your skills in a recital for friends and family.
Enroll today and discover the art of singing, as well as the lifelong benefits of performing and connecting with others through music.
Supply Fee: We provide our students with course workbooks and a special recital goody bag that includes a custom t-shirt, personalized engraved trophy, and keepsake items. To cover the cost of these materials, we collect a $65 supply fee on the first day of class.
Instructor: Cal
Length: 45min
Minimum Age: 7
Maximum Age: 18
Price: $399
Maximum Participants: 7
Welcome to our 10-week Music Producers’ Workshop, designed for middle and high school students who are serious about electronic music production! Our program is taught by successful music producers who have years of experience in the industry and are eager to help each student develop their own unique sound.
Over the course of 10 weeks, students will dive deep into the world of music production, using tools such as MIDI keyboards and Ableton Live to create their own original piece of music. Our curriculum covers topics such as song arrangement, sound design, mixing and mastering, and more. Each lesson builds on the previous one, giving students a solid foundation in the techniques and tools of music production.
Our instructors work closely with each student to ensure they are challenged and engaged at their own level, regardless of their prior experience. Each class includes group lessons that cover new material, followed by individual and group projects where students can put their new skills into practice. By the end of the workshop, each student will have completed their own original piece of music that they can be proud of!
We believe in providing a safe and enjoyable learning environment where students can thrive creatively. Our workshop is located in our state-of-the-art music lab, where each student has access to their own MacBook Air, MIDI keyboard, and headphones.
Join us at the Music Producers’ Workshop and unleash your creativity with music production!
Instructor: James, Isaac, Esther
Length: 90min
Minimum Age: 9
Maximum Age: 18
Price: $449
Maximum Participants: 45
(For more information on student requirements, please see the SRYSO webpage)
Is your child seeking a musical experience that transcends their regular school orchestra? Join the San Ramon Youth String Orchestra, exclusively offered by the San Ramon Academy of Music. Led by expert instructors Isaac Levine and James Daly, this premier ensemble provides aspiring string musicians in San Ramon with a unique opportunity for symphonic excellence.
Benefit from the exceptional expertise of our experienced instructors, ensuring a nurturing and enriching musical journey for each student. As a partnership between the San Ramon Academy of Music and the City of San Ramon, our orchestra enjoys access to professional rehearsal spaces and performance venues, including the Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center. Showcases include not only regular class recitals, but also at exciting City events, affording additional performance experience.
Elevate your child’s musical aspirations by immersing them in the extraordinary world of the San Ramon Youth String Orchestra. Elevate your child’s musical aspirations by immersing them in the extraordinary world of the San Ramon Youth String Orchestra. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of San Ramon’s premier youth string orchestra! Secure your place early and embark on a transformative musical adventure with us!
Instructor: Isaac, James, Esther
Length: 3hrs
Minimum Age: 8
Maximum Age: 18
Price: Donation Based
Maximum Participants: 10
For more information visit our Chamber Ensemble webpage.
Chamber music provides an engaging, immersive musical experience for young players, instilling ensemble skills to a level unmatched by orchestral or solo playing. The purpose of this 10 week course is to rehearse, prepare and perform appropriate literature. At the end of the course students will showcase their work in a Chamber Music Recital as well as apply to prestigious local chamber music festivals. Students will learn standards of rehearsal etiquette, fundamentals of ensemble technique and overall musicality. Students will obtain an appreciation of chamber music, and the skills and techniques associated with the form. Students must be at an early intermediate or advanced level to participate. This class is perfect for students looking for unique extracurricular achievements for future college applications.
Pre-auditions and time slots: it is important for parents and students to attend the pre-audition sessions. This will help in determining groups and pieces for specific levels. Once student groups are assigned they will be given a 45 minute time slot within the class window for their coaching sessions. Session length is determined by ensemble size and student level.
Instructor: Isaac, James, Esther
Age: 8-18
Length: 45min
Minimum Experience: 1 year of private lessons
Price: $349
Maximum Participants: 2-4 per group, maximum of 4 groups per semester
Chamber music offers a unique and rewarding experience for young musicians, focusing on ensemble playing, musicality, and teamwork in a way that solo and orchestral performances cannot. This 10-week program provides students with the opportunity to rehearse, prepare, and perform chamber music in small groups (3-5 players), guided by expert instructors.
Students will refine their ensemble technique, rehearsal etiquette, and musical communication skills, culminating in a final performance at the Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center as part of the SRAM seasonal recital. Each student will receive a custom recital bag with a personalized shirt, trophy, and keepsakes to commemorate their progress. Families will also receive an exclusive Student Progress Form, providing instructor feedback and recommendations for continued growth.
Requirements & Expectations
Chamber ensemble is not a replacement for private lessons—students must be actively enrolled in private instruction. This class focuses on ensemble playing, not individual technique, and students are expected to learn their parts independently and bring them to their private teacher as needed.
To ensure the best group dynamics, students must:
Have at least one year of private lessons experience (or play at an early intermediate level)
Be a pianist or orchestral instrument player
Keep 4:00–8:00 PM open for scheduling, as class times (45 minutes) are assigned after registration
Registration & Audition Process
To participate, students must submit a pre-audition video via Google Form at least 14 days before the first class. This is required to allow instructors to finalize group placements and assign repertoire with at least one week of preparation time.
Chamber Ensemble Audition Form Link: https://forms.gle/mSSw83HHae8qKMy77
Supply Fee
This $65 fee covers:
Professional videography and photography of the recital
Reception with food and drinks
Goody bag with a custom shirt, engraved trophy, and keepsake items
Instructor: James
Minimum Age: 8
Maximum Age: 18
Price: $400
Maximum Participants: 10
*This is a fully remote online course conducted over Zoom*
This course is a preparation course for the ABRSM grade 3 theory exam; the international grading system for musical accomplishment. ABRSM accreditation is a highly sought after extra curricular for college applications.
Passing the Grade 5 ABRSM theory exam is necessary for taking any higher level ABRSM practical examination for any and all instruments. This course starts at grade 1 and as such students with at least 1 year of instrumental experience are encouraged to sign up.
This class will cover the grades 1 – 3 ABRSM theory syllabus in full. Within the syllabus you will be shown the basic principles of music theory, extensively laying the foundations for study at higher levels. After each grade’s module there will be a test to measure student progress.
This course will provide you with a fast track opportunity to gain the necessary knowledge to pass the graded theory exams much faster than with a private music teacher. Students can learn what normally takes years of study in 10 weeks!
Students will be ready to complete the level 3 ABRSM theory exam at the end of this course. This course does NOT include registration for the ABRSM theory exam. This can be done privately or through San Ramon Academy of Music for the cost of registration.
Students will be required to independently purchase the level 1-3 ABRSM workbooks or through San Ramon Academy of Music. Links for material purchase will be provided immediately after registration.
Instructor: James
Minimum Age: 10
Maximum Age: 18
Price: $400
Maximum Participants: 10
*This is a fully remote online course conducted over Zoom*
This course is a preparation course for the ABRSM grade 5 theory exam; the international grading system for musical accomplishment. ABRSM accreditation is a highly sought after extra curricular for college applications.
Passing the Grade 5 ABRSM theory exam is necessary for taking any higher level ABRSM practical examination for any and all instruments. It is highly recommended that students have at least 3 years of instrumental experience, have completed grades 1-3 or be preparing for ABRSM examination before taking this course.
This class will cover the grades 4-5 ABRSM theory syllabus in full. Students will build on the knowledge from previous levels to prepare for the grade 5 exam. After each grade’s module there will be a test to measure student progress. The class culminates with full practice exams to fully assess students’ readiness for examination.
This course will provide you with a fast track opportunity to gain the necessary knowledge to pass the graded theory exams much faster than with a private music teacher. Students can learn what normally takes years of study in 4 months!
Students will be ready to complete the level 5 ABRSM theory exam at the end of this course. This course does NOT include registration for the ABRSM theory exam. This can be done privately or through San Ramon Academy of Music for the cost of registration.
Students will be required to independently purchase the level 4-5 ABRSM workbooks or through San Ramon Academy of Music. Links for material purchase will be provided immediately after registration.
Instructor: James
Minimum Age: 8
Maximum Age: 18
Price: $380
Maximum Participants: 12
*This is a fully remote online course conducted over Zoom*
Music making (composing, improvising, performing, listening) is a fundamental vehicle for human expression. This course is principally concerned with improving access to musical creativity, with providing and enhancing tools and techniques. The focus of written assignments will be to develop musical ideas and notation methods that effectively transmit them to performers. There is no prerequisite for the class. All musical backgrounds are welcomed, including students without prior musical training. However, it is highly recommended that students have at least 1 year of instrumental experience.
This is the class for you if you want to be creative with sound and performance. We will be experimenting with the fundamentals of music making. We will cover basic music notation, instrumentation, musical form and more!
In addition to composition assignments, students will also have reading and listening assignments.
Upon completion of the course there will be a recital to present each student’s final project for friends and family. All music that students compose will be performed by fellow students, or will be presented on computer.
Instructor: James
Minimum Age: 5
Maximum Age: 8
Price: $299
Duration: 1 week 9am-12pm
Maximum Participants: 18
This is a high-energy, hands-on camp designed for young musicians to explore rhythm, movement, and percussion in a fun interactive environment. Perfect for beginners and young drummers, this one-week camp encourages creativity, coordination, and teamwork through engaging musical activities. At the end of camp performer’s will showcase their new skills in a special group performance for family and friends.
The ‘Make Music!’ summer camp is brought to you by San Ramon Academy of Music. This weekly program provides a safe environment for children to develop their music skills with our amazing instructors. Campers will split their time between playing outdoor musical games and a separate classroom. Musicians of all levels are welcome to join! Any child interested in music can greatly benefit from this special experience.
In the classroom environment campers will engage in our ‘Music Lab’ which has a laptop, keyboard, and headphones for every student. Here students will engage with creative lesson plans to learn about different elements of music such as rhythm, notation, composition, basic keyboard skills, and more. These lessons will be applied to their daily musical games and activities.
In addition, campers will be grouped by age to develop social skills, decision-making skills, and make friends in an inclusive group learning environment centered around fun with music!
Required Materials: Campers are encouraged to bring a backpack with a binder, paper, and pencil to take notes on what they learn during the day.
Meet the San Ramon Academy of Music group class instructors.
James has performed as a solo pianist and accompanist across the US and Europe. He has also written dozens of piano works, chamber pieces, and orchestral music which have been played in multiple countries. He has over 10 years of experience teaching piano, theory, and composition to students of all ages.
James received his bachelor’s degree in music from UC Berkeley with an emphasis on performance and composition under pianist Martha Wasley. In addition, he spent time at the University of Manchester studying composition and piano performance under Richard Whalley and Camden Reeves.
Aside from teaching, James also enjoys spending his free time lifting weights, cooking, drawing, and reading.
Isaac teaches violin and viola in the South Bay. His students have achieved high levels of ABRSM accreditation, and have auditioned and played in both the Fremont (FYSO) and Hayward (YOSAC) Youth Symphonies. As a performer, Isaac has played for regional symphonies in New England, and performed with festivals in Breckenridge, Colorado; Charleston, South Carolina; and Spoleto, Italy.
Isaac attended UC Berkeley for undergraduate work, and received a Master of Music in String Performance at Boston University.
Isaac believes in using humor as an essential teaching tool. Laughter makes lessons more enjoyable — which helps students stick with it — but that’s not even the main benefit. More critically, having a sense of humor accelerates progress.
Faith has performed in choirs and as a soloist in the Bay Area the majority of her life. While voice is her chosen instrument as a music major, she has also has extensive experience teaching piano. She is also proficient in organ, guitar, and ukulele.
Faith Fernandez received her Music AA at San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton, CA, and is currently studying to receive her BM in Music Education, Choral at San Jose State University.
During her free time, Faith enjoys movie nights, traveling with her husband, cuddling with her dog, and facetime calls with family that are long distance.
Courtnee has performed as a lead in opera companies throughout the US and Europe in addition to winning international competitions for her vocal excellence. She began teaching at the Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts in 2008. When she moved to California, she continued teaching students around the Bay Area. She enjoys working with children of all age groups that have a love for music.
Courtnee graduated from Dillard University in New Orleans, LA with a Bachelors in Vocal Performance. She received her master’s degree in music from California State University East Bay.
In her leisure, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and having fun with friends.
Cal is an Elementary Music Specialist, teaching music at Fairlands Elementary School in Pleasanton and co-teaching 5th-grade band to all 9 elementary schools in the Pleasanton Unified School District.
Cal attended San Diego State University’s School of Music and has been studying music since the age of 8, originally as a drummer and then just a few years later finding his true love, the piano and music composition.
Cal’s goal is to teach others to realize how music can be beneficial to anyone’s life. “I truly believe the passion of music can translate to every aspect of life and make anyone a better person. I love to share my passion for music to students who want to grow as both musicians and people.
Zoë is a violin instructor at the San Ramon Academy of Music. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes tailored lessons that cater to the unique needs and aspirations of each student. Zoë’s diverse musical experience spans classical to contemporary genres, including both Mozart and Metallica, ensuring engaging and versatile learning sessions.
Zoë holds a Master of Music from the Eastman School of Music and a Bachelor of Arts from UCLA, where she also minored in French. Her rich educational background is complemented by her professional experiences, including roles as a violin fellow at MTT’s New World Symphony, a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, and a first violinist in a piano quintet with Lincoln Center Stage.
Zoë is committed to making violin lessons enjoyable and enriching. She aims to nurture growth not only musically but personally, instilling a sense of gratitude and respect for music in her students. She leverages her extensive experience from performing with icons such as Neil Young and Yo-Yo Ma to inspire and educate her students.
Esther teaches cello at the San Ramon Academy of Music. She brings a robust educational background with a Bachelor’s degree from UC Santa Cruz and a Master’s from the SF Conservatory, supplemented by performance certificates from Alberta. Esther has studied under renowned musicians including Mark Sokol of the Concord String Quartet, Roy Malan of the SF Ballet, and pianist Krzysztof Jablonski. She enjoys performing in a variety of settings, including operas and bands, but specializes in chamber music.
Esther pursued her initial studies in music and cello performance at the University of California, Santa Cruz, followed by advanced studies at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
Passionate about music education, Esther is committed to the transformative power of teaching. She focuses on honing her students’ skills with innovative teaching methods, aiming to instill a deep appreciation and proficiency in cello and chamber music. Esther also incorporates her performance experiences into her teaching, providing a comprehensive learning environment that fosters growth and a love for music.