Desert Hills Community School of Music presents a series of masterclasses designed to help young musicians practice and perfect their repertoire for regional auditions, which will take place in late January 2024.

Led by the DHCSM faculty and professional musicians from the Scottsdale Philharmonic, classes will be offered for both string and band instruments, with each having a fall session (Nov. 11 and 18) and a winter session (Jan. 13 and 20). Classes are $75 per session and will take place on the campus of Desert Hills Presbyterian Church, 34605 N. Tom Darlington Road.

In addition to helping students master their repertoire, the classes will teach the skills necessary for successful auditions and improve overall musicianship. They also will give students an opportunity to make friends and build community with like-minded peers.

“I'm thrilled about this collaboration between DHCSM and the Scottsdale Philharmonic,” says DHCSM Artistic Director Vitaly Serebriakov. “These masterclasses are about more than just preparing for the Regionals. They offer a unique chance to help young, talented musicians refine their skills and enrich their musicianship, all under the expert guidance of our distinguished faculty and Scottsdale Philharmonic professionals.”

Desert Hills Community School of Music and the Scottsdale Philharmonic are presenting the masterclasses as part of the organizations’ shared goal of bringing quality music education to the community. The Scottsdale Philharmonic, which always offers free concert admission for students, is also planning to launch a Youth Symphony in the 2024-25 season.

“We are excited to be partnering with DHCSM to bring high-quality musical opportunities to students throughout the valley,” said Carl Reiter, Music Director and Trustee for the Scottsdale Philharmonic.

The new masterclasses are the latest addition to DHCSM’s 2023-24 school year. Other upcoming highlights include group classes and private lessons for kids and adults, an audition-based Advanced Music Program for dedicated musicians aged 7-18, Saxophone Ensemble rehearsals throughout October, and the brand-new Flute Choir, which will meet in November and December. As DHCSM continues to expand its faculty, classes and lessons are now available for a wide variety of instruments, including piano, woodwinds, brass, strings and more.

To register for the masterclasses or explore DHCSM’s various class offerings, visit deserthillsmusic.org. To learn more about the Scottsdale Philharmonic, visit scottsdalephilharmonic.com.