MUSIC

PRE-CONSERVATORY &
CONSERVATORY PROGRAM

— GRADES 6-8 & 9-12

About the Pathways

The OC Music & Dance Music Pre-Conservatory and Conservatory are after-school college-preparatory, pre-professional training programs designed for dedicated young musicians in grades 6-8 & 9 – 12 performing at an intermediate to advanced level.

A young man playing a grand piano in a dark setting, dressed in a white shirt and black vest, with the piano's interior and strings visible.

The Conservatory experience

Specialized group classes focused on genre-specific techniques (e.g., improvisation, vocal performance, stylistic interpretation, audition prep)

Ensemble participation, such as bands, combos, chamber groups, or musical theatre productions  

Musicianship and theory training to deepen musical understanding and fluency  

Performance opportunities throughout the year, including showcases, recitals, and community events

— Private lessons are not included in the conservatory but are available and highly encouraged.

This immersive programs are built for students who are serious about developing their artistry, refining their technical skills, and preparing for collegiate study or careers in music and the performing arts. 

Students choose a primary focus in Classical Music, Choral/Vocal, Jazz, Musical Theatre, or Popular Music, and engage in a comprehensive curriculum that balances individual growth with collaborative experience. Each conservatory is designed to reflect real-world industry expectations while maintaining a strong foundation in musicianship and artistic integrity.

Pre-Conservatory
Grades 6-8

Conservatory
Grades 9-12

Students are admitted to the program by audition and are held to high artistic and professional standards, with an emphasis on consistency, collaboration, and creative exploration. Faculty provide ongoing feedback, mentorship, and individualized guidance to help each student reach their full potential. 

A young boy playing a cello while reading sheet music, dressed casually in a jacket, t-shirt, and sneakers.
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Meet the Artistic Team

Whether pursuing classical excellence, contemporary performance, or the stage, the OCMD Conservatory Program equips students with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to take the next step in their musical journey. 

The Pathways

A young woman playing the violin during an orchestral performance, with other orchestra members seated nearby in a concert hall.

Classical Music Conservatory

The Classical Music Conservatory is a pre-professional training program for students entering high school in Fall 2026, designed for musicians ready to commit to intensive study. Students train across piano, strings, winds, brass, and percussion, combining rigorous technical development with ensemble performance, musicianship, and artistic refinement. The program cultivates advanced performance skills, stylistic awareness, and disciplined practice habits, preparing students for collegiate study and future professional pathways in music.

Young girl in a blue dress singing at a piano with sheet music in the background.

Choral/Vocal Conservatory

The Choral /Vocal Conservatory develops healthy vocal technique, musicianship, and expressive performance through individual and ensemble singing. Students train in breath support, vocal production, diction, and stylistic interpretation across diverse repertoire. Through choirs, ensembles, and solo work, singers build collaboration, listening skills, and musical communication. Rehearsals and performances foster confidence, refine technique, and prepare students for advanced study and both solo and ensemble performance opportunities.

Close-up of a person playing a saxophone during a musical performance, with other musicians in the background and stage lighting creating a warm, vibrant atmosphere.

Jazz Music Conservatory

The Jazz Music Conservatory provides collaborative, pre-college training for dedicated students ready to deepen their craft. Through ensemble work, theory, improvisation, and performance, musicians build versatility, creativity, and a distinct artistic voice. Rooted in jazz tradition and real-world application, the program develops technical fluency and confidence while preparing students for collegiate study within a supportive, growth-driven musical community.

Two people, a woman in a yellow dress and a man in a blue jacket, talking on a dark stage.

Musical Theatre Conservatory

The Musical Theatre Conservatory integrates singing, acting, and movement to prepare students for the demands of performance. Students train in vocal technique, character development, storytelling, stage presence, and audition preparation while exploring repertoire from classic Broadway to contemporary works. Through scene study, song interpretation, ensemble work, and staged performances, students build confidence, versatility, and the skills needed for collegiate training and future opportunities in musical theatre.

A person playing an acoustic guitar in dim lighting, with focus on their hand pressing down on the strings near the frets.

Popular Music Conservatory

The Popular Music Conservatory trains serious high school musicians in performance, songwriting, and production across styles such as rock, pop, folk, and more. Students gain real-world experience in recording and live performance while preparing for top collegiate programs and careers in the industry. With pathways in Performance, Songwriting, or Production, students study theory, aural skills, and creative development, training with working artists in a selective, pre-professional environment.

Two men in traditional outfits performing with accordions during a cultural event, with a vivid orange background.

World Music and Global Sound Program

The World Music and Global Sound Program at OC Music & Dance offers students a unique opportunity to explore musical traditions from around the world through performance, study, and cultural immersion.

Open to all ages, as well as professional and semi-professional musicians, the program is especially beneficial for those with a background in Western instruments looking to expand their musical vocabulary.