LSM Winter session 2022

LSM is thrilled to open enrollment for Winter Session 2022! This is a way to tune up your playing and singing, explore exciting topics in music, connect with peers from all over the country, and get to know our incredible Faculty.

The LSM Winter Session aims to remove the traditional barriers of travel distance, tuition cost, and time commitment so that we can welcome even more young musicians into our community!

All Winter Session activities are conducted via Zoom. If you have an internet connection and want to grow as a musician: the Winter Session is for you!


Included for all Winter Session students

  • Three (3) 30-minute private lessons on your instrument or voice with an LSM Faculty Artist

    Lessons are scheduled at the mutual convenience of the Student and Faculty, between January 9 and February 6.

  • Group class with faculty and peers in your instrument area.

  • Attend an unlimited number of sessions from the below two tracks based on your personal interests and goals to enrich your Winter Session experience!

General Interest

Thursdays at 6:30 PM Central Time

Suggested for any student grades 8-12 who want to expand their musical horizons!

These enrichment sessions are offered once every week between January 9 and February 11th. Every session is open to any instrument or voice, no prior experience necessary!

Week 1

January 13

From Stage Fright to Stage Presence with Dr. Hannah Leffler and Dr. Steph Frye-Clark

Introducing techniques and tools to becoming a fearless and confident performer.

Week 2

January 20

Intro to Composition with Dr. Benjamin Krause

Discover your creative voice and learn the basics of composing music with the instruction of a professional composer.

Week 3

January 27

Beginning Jazz Improvisation with Dr. Paul Morton

Come explore the language of jazz improvisation. Learn how to read and play through “chord changes”. All instruments and voices welcome. No previous jazz experience needed.

Week 4

February 3

Intro to Music Therapy with Dr. Sangeeta Swamy

Discover the stories and science behind the inspiring profession of music therapy. In this class, you will learn what music therapy is, its powerful therapeutic qualities, how to use music for your own stressors, and music therapy as a potential career path.

Week 5

February 17

Intro to Conducting with Dr. Kevin Sütterlin

Learn basic conducting patterns and methods for conducting both instrumental and choral ensembles.

College Prep

Sundays at 6:30 PM Central Time

Suggested for high school juniors and seniors who are interested or curious about music in college.

One session each week will cover a variety of practical topics to help you discern and prepare for music in college, whether you plan to major in music or not. Every session is open to any instrument or voice.

Week 1

January 9

Music Degrees: Explained

Should I study Music Performance or Music Education? What about Music Therapy? Hear from experienced professors and graduates of all of these degrees to make a more informed decision about what is right for you.

Week 2

January 16

Music Theory Primer

Most music degrees begin with a Music Theory placement exam. Learn what to expect and how to prepare for this exam to put your best foot forward!

Week 3

January 23

Auditions and Pre-Screenings

Take the stress out of your college audition process. Whether you are auditioning for a competitive place in a music degree program, or simply auditioning for a campus ensemble, learn how to meet requirements, set yourself apart, and let your unique skills shine.

Week 4

January 30

How to use a Music Degree IRL

What can you actually DO with a music degree? Do you need to get a Master’s Degree or Doctorate too? Join this panel discussion with working professionals who hold a variety of degrees in music and learn how they are used in career, vocation, and practice.

Week 5

February 6

Performance Class and Next Steps!

An opportunity to perform for your peers and instructors, and get encouragement and feedback! Following the performances, there will be a discussion on excellent pre-college opportunities that will prepare you to take your next big step.