Blue Bear Winter 2015 68-page Catalog by Mike Charlasch

WINTER 2015 Catalog

CLASSEs LESSONS workshops fo r al l ages

Thinking of taking lessons or classeS at Blue Bear?

Want to see what it’s like first?

Blue Bear

OPEN HOUSE

Interested in a preview of our expansion?

Sunday, January 11 • 2 – 5 pm

Or, maybe you just want to hang out with some welcoming Bears? Then join us for a special Open House to celebrate the new year! Everyone is welcome for this event, where you can: Check out our new “Creating Music” room and learn about this new program, which gives you the opportunity to write and record your own music

Check out the music of some of Blue Bear’s instructors

Talk with Blue Bear staff and learn more about what classes may be right for you

Enjoy food, drinks, door prizes and, of course, music!

See the full schedule at

Meet other rockin’ people who hang out at the Bear

It’s tim e

playto bluebearmusic.org/open-house

Table of

CONTENTS Introduction About Us 2 Teachers 4 Why Blue Bear 6 What Students Say 8 Community Programs 10 Support 12 The New Bear 14 Winter Overview & Calendar 15

private lessons Private Lessons (ages 5 & up) 16 adult group classes Band Workshops 18 Guitar 22 Jam 25 Ukulele 26 Bass 27 Theory 27 Voice 28 songwriting, recording & seminars Creating Music Program 32 Short Seminars 34 kids & teens Group classes After-School Classes 36 All Star Bands 38 Summer Camps 40 Little bears Overview 44 Group Classes 45 Schedule 46 Frequently Asked Questions 47 community programs Overview 48 Digital Audio Program 49 Group Classes 50 teacher biographies Teacher Biographies

gifts, grants & scholarships Scholarship Donors & Matching Grants 56 General Fund Donors 57 trustees & staff Board of Trustees Program & Administrative Staff

61 61

information & events General Information Fort Mason Map & Directions Blue Bear Holiday Party Blue Bear Benefit with Mavis Staples

62 63 64 65

sliding scale tuition Income-based sliding scale tuition is available for all Blue Bear instruction and summer camps, with potential savings of 20% to 30% or more. Please visit bluebearmusic.org/sliding to see whether you qualify!

winter 2015 catalog production Managing editor Mike Charlasch Design Hélène Côté Writing & editing Dennis Criteser & Mike Charlasch Photography Jane Higgins, Grason Littles Alycia Moore, Dennis Criteser Pax Ahimsa Gethen & others Printing FolgerGraphics Cover bassist Kat Mihalov Cover photo Pax Ahimsa Gethen

NOTE: Class and seminar schedules subject to change. Visit bluebearmusic.org for the most current information. visit bluebearmusic.org 1

S U About

Blue Bear School of Music is a nonprofit organization founded in 1971. As the Bay Area’s pre-eminent school of rock, blues, jazz, folk and other popular music styles, Blue Bear is a home for aspiring musicians of all skill levels, a place where each student’s unique talents and goals are recognized and supported. Blue Bear is a vibrant community, a place for making, learning and sharing music. With its main location at Fort Mason Center and a satellite location in SOMA (South of Market), Blue Bear offers private lessons on most instruments and voice. We also have a broad range of group classes, workshops, seminars and summer camps. Blue Bear provides music instruction at offsite locations, partnering with local schools and community organizations to bring exciting programs into the classroom.

AdultS18+

Group Classes

Blue Bear offers a wide range of small group classes in guitar, voice, bass, ukulele, and music theory, generally offered on an 11-week quarter system. They’re an affordable way to either start your adventures in music or enhance your skills and keep growing as a musician. And they are great for meeting others who are passionate about learning and playing music.

Short Seminars

Between quarters, Blue Bear offers Short Seminars, classes that only meet for one day on a wide range of music topics. They are led by some of Blue Bear’s most popular teachers, along with special guest instructors, and are a low-cost way to dip your toes in the water!

Band Workshops

These are the heart and soul of Blue Bear! After a brief placement discussion with the Program Director, workshops are assembled under the guidance of a professional musician and instructor. Student bands rehearse for 10 weeks and then perform a 40-minute set in a local San Francisco club. These workshops are offered quarterly at both Fort Mason Center and SOMA locations.

Creating Music Program

For music creators and collaborators, Blue Bear offers 10-week workshops that end with a polished recording, as students are guided through the entire process of creating, arranging, recording and mixing original material. 11-week songwriting classes are offered for those wanting to write their first song and for experienced writers as well. 2 call 415.673.3600

Private

(ages 5 & up)

LESSONS

Throughout the year Blue Bear offers private instruction on most instruments and voice, for students age five years and up. Instruction is also offered in music theory, composition, sight singing, ear training and improvisation. Our students range from “square one” beginners both young and old, to serious musicians preparing themselves for study at places like Berklee School of Music and Musicians Institute.

All Star Bands (ages 11 to 17)

Our youth All Star Band program is for young musicians in grades 6-12 who are serious about developing their musicianship and ensemble playing skills. There are several All Star bands rehearsing on the weekends, and each band has the opportunity to play at least one live show at the end of each semester. New members can join in January and September each year, after a brief assessment audition with the instructors that ensures a good match among players of similar skill levels.

Summer Camps (ages 8 to 17)

Blue Bear offers weeklong day camps from June through early August at Fort Mason and in Marin. The lineup includes rock bands and guitar, voice and songwriting camps, all under the direction of the Bay Area’s most experienced musicians and instructors. New this year is an exciting camp devoted to the art of film scoring!

During the academic year, Blue Bear offers a variety of afternoon classes and bands for students in elementary school through high school. These offerings represent a great way to augment and complement what may be very limited exposure to music in the school system. And they’re fun!

Group Classes (ages 6 to 17)

bears

s (age

TEENS &KIDS

Little

Little Bears music classes are s to 5 ye ars) for the very young ones and their parent or caregiver. Little Bears teachers are musicians who involve students in music through singing, rhythms, games and movement. Early introduction to music has been shown to improve speech development, motor skills and listening and concentration skills, all by singing your heart out, moving to the music, and making a joyful noise! Read on to learn more about our classes for Boogie Bears, Bouncy Bears and Baby Bears.

Community

programs

Blue Bear community programs stem from a desire to revitalize music learning via popular music genres. Our commitment to social equity through teaching current styles such as rock, blues, urban, world and even digital audio technology, makes learning accessible to greater numbers of youth in our community — and this has been part of the Blue Bear culture for over 40 years. Programs are offered in partner schools and community centers and range from fully or partially underwritten to fee-based and parent-supported. visit bluebearmusic.org 3

Teachers Blue Bear’s instructors are experienced mentors committed to helping you reach your musical goals. They are passionate about sharing the knowledge they’ve gained both from traditional training and from performing, on the stage and in the studio. With impressive biographies (see pages 52-55), our teachers have played and recorded with a long list of “who’s who” in the popular music world.

4 call 415.673.3600

Hall & Oates The Mermen

Don Byron

LOS LOBOS

LES CLAYPOOL

Clarence Clemons Tracy Chapman Freddie Hubbard

Glenn Branca

Bobby McFerrin

DEE DEE RAMONE NEAL SCHON

PRINCE

Narada Michael Walden Vinny Appice

Kenny Loggins Eric McFadden MICHAEL JACKSON The Tubes Animal Liberation Orchestra

STING

VAN MORRISON

Mickey Hart

William Kennedy

MICK JAGGER

The Mother Hips

JACKSON BROWN SAMMY HAGAR

Skerik

Tea Leaf Green Nicki Bluhm Stu Hamm

AL JARREAU

Todd Rundgren

WHITNEY HOUSTON NEIL DIAMOND

Earl Klugh

Oscar Brown, Jr.

SANTANA

DEREK TRUCKS Merl Saunders The Billy Nayer Show Paul Jackson Sheila E.

visit bluebearmusic.org 5

WHY Blue Bear? Students of all ages pursue their music studies at Blue Bear, year after year. Here are a few of the most important reasons why. Community Blue Bear welcomes everyone, whether you just want to play music for your own personal enjoyment or you’re seriously considering music as a career. Blue Bear unites people passionate about Individualized music. Many of our Band Workshops have spun off practice bands that continue to play together Attention long after the end of the quarter. Some have even turned into regularly gigging bands. And of Blue Bear offers 1-on-1 consultations. As course, many friendships (and a few marriages) a new student, you’ll meet with our Program Director, who can answer your questions about have begun in Blue Bear classes! Blue Bear programs, the process of learning music and your musical goals. Together you’ll determine Blue Bear fosters a casual and supportive atmosphere, free from the judgment, academic what teachers and classes are best suited to your needs. Consultations are available whenever rigor and competition of some other schools. you have questions about what to do next. Blue Bear has a strong track record. We’ve offered popular music instruction since 1971, so our programming reflects deep experience and lots of student feedback. 90% of our new students come through a personal recommendation.

6 call 415.673.3600

Blue Bear keeps class sizes small. Most of our guitar classes are limited to six or seven students. Voice classes that involve solo singing are usually limited to five or six. Most of our vocal technique classes are limited to eight. At these sizes, the teacher can give individual attention as needed.

Top Notch Teachers Blue Bear instructors are committed to teaching as a profession. Our teachers are here because they are dedicated to helping students meet their goals, not just to make some extra money on the side. And if a teacher you start with doesn’t seem like the right fit for you, it’s easy to notify our staff and request a different one. Blue Bear teachers work as musicians. Our instructors are experts in their craft, with significant experience in all facets of the music industry (see pages 52-55).

Convenience Blue Bear has ample low-cost parking. Parking in the Fort Mason Center pay lot is usually easy and if we know in advance that a Fort Mason Center event will make parking scarce, we’ll send you an email alert. You can also find parking alerts on the calendar at bluebearmusic.org. Free parking can sometimes be found outside the Fort Mason Center gates, along the Marina Green, or in the nearby neighborhood. Blue Bear provides flexible payment and scheduling options. You can pay by the lesson, prepay for four lessons, or prepay for 10 lessons (for the lowest per-lesson rate). Refunds for unused lessons are available. We offer half-hour and one-hour lessons. Hour lessons can be taken weekly or every other week. Some people schedule lessons irregularly, on an ad hoc basis. You don’t need to commit to a certain number of lessons and you may cancel any scheduled lesson for a $5 administrative fee if you give us two days advance notice. (Most other schools don’t allow cancellations at all.)

When you consider Blue Bear’s unique benefits and affordable cost, it’s easy to see why many of our students continue their work here over a period of several years.

visit bluebearmusic.org 7

What Students

SAY

Blue Bear makes a big difference in the musical lives of our students. Here are a few examples of what students (and parents) have to “I still have a blast and learn something new every time.” say about it.

blast

— Brian Gifford

“Brian Gire is classically trained, but also has an appreciation for (as well as an encyclopedic knowledge of) all genres of music. This, and “Randy Clark is an EXCELLENT his patience, make him the perfect teacher.” slide guitarist and fingerpicker. His — Deborah Addad technique is pristine and his attention to detail

motivated excellent break through when teaching is awesome.” — Riz Alani

“Caroline Dahl is a great teacher. I look forward to my lesson every week and always leave motivated to learn more and get better.” — Mike Evans

do it

“Thanks for the great program, I couldn’t have done this on my own! — Forbes Husted

“Even when I feel completely stuck and think I just don’t have the time to devote to it, John Turner always finds some way from his wonderful tool kit to make me produce a little breakthrough. He is very patient and has the ability to make it fun.” – Sabine K.

“I would highly recommend Blue Bear as the go-to place for your children’s musical experiences!”— Kristen Lemaster

great

“I’m extremely happy with Blue Bear in general and Kent Brown in particular. I encourage anyone interested in learning (or improving) to be like Nike and just do it!” — Dan Shaw

“Thank you for all you do to make this possible. Our son Shawn really enjoyed himself, and what great experience for him and his band!” — Wendy Bolker

8 call 415.673.3600

“Matt Driscoll is so calm and patient with me in class. I look forward to seeing him every time and I practice every day I can to prepare.” — Jacob Spiegel

fun

rock proud “Steve Kirk has been an excellent teacher for me, not only as far as guitar technique but also for musical composition and theory. He made it all come together in a well-directed, fun way.” — Jim McDaniel

“Janak Ramachandran’s classes helped me make big improvements in both my singing and my stage presence. Very highly recommended to all you rock star wannabes!” — Mark Mayper “Our son Julian’s eyes have been opened so much and we’re very proud of the accomplishments the kids have created.” — Joycelin Craig & Conrad Lopez

love

cool

“We credit Teacher Rachel and the Little Bears program for our daughter Audrey’s sense of rhythm, melody and overall love of music. We look forward to many more years at Blue Bear.” — Uma & George Lerner

tricks

“Mike Rao has in-depth knowledge about blues, rock and jazz, and has a cool, relaxed teaching style that makes learning fun and interesting. Thanks, Mike!” — Kathy Miller “With Kent Brown’s tips and tricks, I was able to play my favorite songs in just a few months!” — Jaclyn Hood

coaching

“I’m not sure I could ever have made it this far if it hadn’t been for Janak Ramachandran’s support and coaching. He will challenge you to step out of your comfort zone, but you always have a safety net of support and encouragement.” — Jeanette Flodel

awesome

“J.T. Locke has been awesome to work with! Part drill sergeant, cheerleader, spiritual guru, fashion police and now a great friend, he has given me musical knowledge and ability way beyond my expectations!” — Alan Nichols

beyond expectations

“I’m sticking with Blue Bear, you do a wonderful job.” — Dick Millet

“Want to try a band workshop? Request Sean Leahy. Sean is one of the nicest people you will ever meet and he will have you sounding good within the first day. Great musician and singer, and a great person.” — Brett Ortiz

nicest people

visit bluebearmusic.org 9

Community

PROGRAMS

Grades 5-12

Blue Bear community programs provide highquality instruction by our artists-in-residence. These classes are geared for elementary through high school settings and students often participate in public performances that build confidence and self-esteem.

Rock Band Ensemble — Involves hands-on instruction with a focus on practicing and performing as a group; also includes active listening, music theory, music critique and instrumental technique.

Grades 2-4 Get Rhythm — Our entry-level class teaches students the fundamentals of one of music’s most important building blocks. Instrument Petting Zoo — Designed for the beginning-level music student, with the goal of increasing interest and helping determine which instrument they like best and want to focus on. Sing! Dance! — This vocal performance class takes the playful, contemporary side of the TV show Glee and combines it with a traditional choral class.

10 call 415.673.3600

Beginning Group Guitar — A hands-on intro to acoustic guitar that includes basic playing skills and learning music fundamentals. Keyboard Lab — Beginning instruction on piano, the foundational musical instrument; includes music theory as well as playing skills. Blue Bear community programs take place at these and other Bay Area partner sites:

• Bayview Hunters Point YMCA • Tenderloin Rec Center • St. Joseph’s Family Center • Rooftop Alternative School • Creative Arts Charter School • The Academy of Arts and Sciences • Miraloma Elementary School • Buchanan YMCA

Digital audio program Our new dedicated Digital Audio Program at Bayview Hunters Point YMCA empowers at-risk youth to write, produce and record their own original music with state-of-the-art tools such as GarageBand, Ableton, Logic and Pro Tools. Students can gain pre-professional skills in the fields of digital audio and video production and engineering.

Other Digital Audio Classes Studio 101: Beginning Digital Audio Production — Teaches students to create their own original songs using the acclaimed Apple program GarageBand. Studio 201 — Furthers the instruction and offers a glimpse into other more advanced programs such as Ableton, Logic and Pro Tools. DJ Course — For students interested in a more current musical art form, covering all styles and genres from hip hop to techno.

Current and past partner sites for Blue Bear Digital Audio Programs include:

• Bayview Hunters Point YMCA • Glide Memorial Church After School Center • Ida B. Wells Continuing Education High School • Bayview Opera House • International Studies Academy • Boys and Girls Clubs • Friends of the Children • Saint Joseph’s Family Center • Real Options for City Kids • Streetside Stories • Lincoln High School • James Lick Middle School • Starr King Elementary School • Claire Lilienthal

SUPPORT

Blue Bear has helped over 30,000 students discover their musical talents, cultivating skills for a lifetime of learning and enrichment. Your charitable support for our nonprofit work is crucial — without it, we cannot continue to offer affordable (and free) music education.

Why give

what your gift supports

Just imagine a world without music…

A gift of any amount directly subsidizes Blue Bear’s ability to make high-quality music education both accessible and affordable. Here are just a few of the many ways we put your support to work:

A donation to Blue Bear is an investment in a vibrant, effective nonprofit organization that improves lives, one note at a time. With the disappearance of music programs in the schools, Blue Bear is an increasingly important community resource. Making music helps make the world go ‘round and here are some reasons why what we do is important work:

• Music is a deeply meaningful and core

mode of human expression, for all ages.

• Making music together gives people a positive social experience.

• Music can serve as a gratifying counter-

balance to demanding professional lives.

• Learning music enhances brainpower and improves academic performance.

• Making music has proven health benefits. • Music gives young people a way to express themselves — even to find themselves.

12 call 415.673.3600

• Seven off-site Youth Outreach Programs in public schools and community centers

• A new Digital Audio Program at the Bayview

Hunters Point YMCA, providing free music education to some of the Bay Area’s most at-risk youth • A new Vocal Performance Program at the Tenderloin Rec Center, in another of San Francisco’s most underserved neighborhoods • Multiple Youth All Star Bands for talented teens • A Little Bears Program for toddlers in a community center • Sliding scale tuition assistance and scholarships, ensuring access to Blue Bear programs for all

“Music in the soul can be heard by the universe.” — Lao Tzu

FEED the bear Playing music changes lives! And you can make a difference by helping us provide both free and very affordable music education — at a time when music programs have been slashed throughout the public school system. Contributions to our 2014-15 “Feed the Bear” campaign make Blue Bear’s day-to-day operations possible. Please donate online any time at bluebearmusic.org — it’s easy thanks to our partnership with Network for Good.

How to contribute There are many ways to support Blue Bear and you can also designate your gift to specifically benefit one or more of our programs. Please consider the following:

And, you can make your gift go further — check with your employer’s HR department to see if they have a matching grant program for donations made to nonprofits.

• Make a one-time, monthly or quarterly

Blue Bear is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. Please contact our Development Associate, Alycia Moore, with any questions about your contributions. She can be reached at alycia@bluebearmusic.org and 415.673.3600.

donation on our website. • Send a check by mail. • Donate musical instruments or equipment in good working condition. • Include Blue Bear as part of your planned giving.

the new

BEAR

The catalog you’re holding represents a new beginning for this 43-year-old institution affectionately known as The Bear. Please join us at the new Bear — a bigger, bolder, broader version of the school that many of you have helped create. The new Bear embraces the sense of community, the love of music and the joy in the learning and playing of music that have been the hallmark of the school since its early days in the wake of the ‘60s counterculture here in San Francisco. Please join us at the new Bear — looking forward into the multicultural world of musical styles and the explosive capabilities of technology that are creating new versions of popular music across all age groups and all genres. The new Bear celebrates its faculty, staff and Board; some have woven the web of music through our community for as many as 40 years and others have been with us for as little as 40 days. I believe the current faculty, staff and Board of Trustees represents the most forwardthinking and exuberant version of Blue Bear ever! Please join us at the new Bear — where innovative new programs meet beloved classes and workshops that have been enjoyed by generations of music makers. The cast of characters that invented this venerable institution and the cast of characters that are currently reinventing it share the belief in music as a powerful force for good in our community. Please join us at the new Bear — as we continue this decades-long tradition of changing lives through the transformational power of playing music! Welcome to the new Bear, Steve Savage Founder and President of the Board of Trustees

14 call 415.673.3600

At Blue Bear, we’ve always said that we’re a music school for all ages. That means Blue Bear is a music school for you! With this wonderful new catalog, we can finally show the full breadth of our classes, to everyone. We offer a broad range of instrument and voice classes for adults. Whether you’re a square-one beginner or already underway on your musical journey, you can get started with an experienced teacher, learning at a pace that will keep you moving forward in a classroom environment that’s fun and engaging. Our Band Workshop Program is a popular place to meet others and make music together with a shared goal of a live club performance — after just ten weeks of rehearsing under the guidance of a skilled band teacher. Brand new at Blue Bear is our Creating Music Program, where you’ll join with other songwriters and collaborators to develop original material and take it all the way to a finished recording in Blue Bear’s new digital recording room. Other classes will help you write your first song or, for experienced writers, further develop your songwriting chops. For kids and teens, we offer after-school classes in keyboard, singing, guitar and recording, as well as band playing opportunities after school and in our weekend All Star Band Program. And we know you’ll soon be planning Summer Camp schedules — we’re ready for you with a full range of weeklong day camps. For the youngest among us, ages 4 months to 5 years, our Little Bears Program is a wonderful introduction to the joys of music, with all of its beneficial effects on the development of motor, social and cognitive skills. The bottom line… it’s time to play! Let us help you do it, whether in our group classes that begin January 20 or in private lessons that can begin anytime.

Dennis Criteser Program Director

PLAY

It’s time to

WINTER QUARTER 2015 CALENDAR

Private

LESSONS

Throughout the year Blue Bear offers private instruction for students age five years and up, on most instruments and voice, plus music theory, composition, sight singing, ear training and improvisation. Our students range from “square-one” beginners to serious musicians preparing themselves for study at the nation’s finest schools of music. PRICES, PAYMENT & SCHEDULES

Private Hours

• Instruction takes place Monday-Thursday in

the afternoon and evening, and Saturdays during the daytime. • You may take one-hour lessons either weekly or every-other-week, or you may take weekly half-hour lessons. • You may pay for individual lessons, or get discounts with the purchase of a 4-pack or a 10-pack. • You may take an initial trial lesson with a teacher at the 1-lesson rate. To continue you must pay our annual $35 Member Fee. • It’s possible to start lessons anytime — give us a call at 415.673.3600 to discuss teacher and scheduling options.

16 call 415.673.3600

1 lesson

4 lessons

10 lessons

Most instruments

$60

$225

$525

Drums & voice

$65

$245

$575

Private Half-Hours or Shared-with-a-Friend Hours (per student)

1 lesson

4 lessons

10 lessons

Most instruments

$34

$125

$290

Drums & voice

$37

$135

$315

POLICIES & PROCEDURES To cancel a lesson or semi-private Please notify the Blue Bear desk in lesson —

person or by phone, not through your teacher and not by email. For lessons canceled with two days notice (see schedule below), you will be charged a $5 administrative fee that will be deducted from your account. For lessons canceled with less than two days notice you will be charged in full so that your teacher can be paid for the reserved time.

Our office hours are Monday to Thursday 1-8 pm and Saturday 10:30 am-3:30 pm. Blue Bear’s phone number is 415.673.3600. If you are charged for a lesson for which tuition is owed, we will ask you to catch up on tuition to confirm your next lesson. We may sometimes call to ask if you’re able to move your lesson time on a particular date. If the change is not convenient, feel free to keep your usual time. We are not calling to cancel your regular lesson time unless we state that very clearly.

To drop your lessons

Monday

Saturday 3 pm

Tuesday

Anytime Sunday

Please tell us when you want to discontinue your lessons. We assume that you will continue forever, so even when your lesson package ends we still have you on your teacher’s schedule. If you wish to stop, you must notify us at least two days before your next scheduled lesson. And just tell us if you’d like to try a different teacher or instrument anytime.

Wednesday

Monday 8 pm

Private lesson refunds

Thursday

Tuesday 8 pm

Friday

Wednesday 8 pm

Saturday

Thursday 8 pm

If your lesson is on:

You need to notify desk by:

(leave a message)

Any remaining lesson credit is refundable for one year after your last charged lesson. Any outstanding credit lapses at this time. For partial refunds on a 4-pack or 10-pack discount package, charged lessons will be pro-rated at the next higher rate.

visit bluebearmusic.org 17

Adult Band

Workshops The heart and soul of Blue Bear! Our band workshops are student bands that rehearse and later perform a 40-minute set of material at a San Francisco club. Workshops are organized after a brief placement discussion with the Program Director. Songs are chosen by the students in each band and an experienced professional musician guides the rehearsals. A full band consists of two singers, two guitarists, bass, drums and keys. The bands are also open to horn players. Drums, amps, keyboard and PA are supplied. Band workshops are ten weeks plus performance. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.

Rock & Blues Workshops

Wide open as to style. Material may range from oldies to blues, alternative to Top 40. You name it!

Rock, Soul and R&B Workshop

Includes some classics from the likes of James Brown or Aretha Franklin in the mix.

Blues, Soul and Roots Workshop

Covers classic electric blues and the many styles influenced by the blues, including roots rock and roots country.

Classic Rock Workshop

Draws mostly from the repertoire of the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s. Students get to decide on what “Classic” means! 18

Contemporary Bands Workshop 足 You get to perform material from a broad range of artists and bands with releases from the last five to ten years. Hard Rock Workshop

Covers more guitar-driven, hard-rocking bands such as AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, Metallica and Nirvana.

Indie/Folk Workshop

For acoustic players including guitar, upright bass, keys, singers, percussion, mandolin and fiddle, who want to play songs from the burgeoning new indie/folk movement of bands such as The Decemberists, Mumford & Sons, The Shins, The Lumineers or your choice.

Jazz Workshop

This is a small combo: one vocalist, guitarist, keyboard player, bassist, drummer, and up to three horns. A knowledge of scales and progressions is prerequisite, along with some prior reading and improvisational skill. Band members will be reading and soloing from chord charts and will play a diverse mix of old and new jazz standards.

Adult Band Workshops

WINTER 2015 | Band Workshop Schedule At Fort Mason Center

Basic Rock & Blues Basic Rock, Soul and R&B Basic Rock & Blues Advanced Rock & Blues (by audition) Contemporary Bands Basic Rock & Blues Intermediate Rock & Blues Acoustic Indie/Folk

At Lennon (SOMA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 271 Dore St.) Basic Rock & Blues Intermediate Rock & Blues Classic Rock Basic Rock & Blues Jazz Workshop Hard Rock Blues, Soul and Roots

Jim Peterson Jim Peterson Steve Kirk Steve Kirk Mark Schuh Mark Schuh J.T. Locke J.T. Locke

Mon 6-8:30 pm (1/26-3/30) Mon 8:30-11 pm (1/26-3/30) Tues 6-8:30 pm (1/20-3/24) Tues 8:30-11 pm (1/20-3/24 Wed 6-8:30-11 pm (1/21-3/25) Wed 8:30-11 pm (1/21-3/24) Thu 6-8:30 pm (1/22-3/25) Thu 8:30-11 pm (1/22-3/25)

Sean Leahy Sean Leahy Sean Leahy Sean Leahy Jim Peterson J.T. Locke Randy Clark

Mon 6-8:30 pm (1/26-3/30) Mon 8:30-11 pm (1/26-3/30) Wed 6-8:30 pm (1/21-3/25) Wed 8:30-11 pm (1/21-3/25) Thu 8:30-11 pm (1/22-3/26) Sat 1-3:30 pm (1/24-3/28) Sun 4-6:30 pm (1/25-3/29)

PREREQUISITES, PERFORMANCES & PAYMENTS Basic level bands do not require any previous band playing experience; being able to learn parts by ear or with the help of a private instructor is best. Intermediate level bands require at least

a year of previous band experience along with the ability to read chord charts and learn parts by ear.

Prerequisites

Guitar players: able to move easily between open and barre chords. Drummers: able to play steadily at fast and slow tempi, fill comfortably, and play both rock and blues grooves. Bass players: able to play various grooves easily and lock with the drummer. Singers: able to sing in tune and have a strong enough sense of time so that song entry points and phrasing can be consistently executed. Keyboard players: able to form major and minor triads without notation.

Performance dates and venue for the Winter

Quarter bands will be announced online. You can attend the Fall Quarter Band Showcases on December 6 and 7, 1-8:30 pm, at the Knockout, 3223 Mission St., San Francisco.

Tuition is $375

(or three payments of $130)

to Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time

play

visit bluebearmusic.org 11 21

GUITAR Classes

Adult

Always wanted to learn how to play the guitar, but not sure where or how to start? Guitar for the Square-One Beginner

This class is for you! You’ll start rocking out with hands-on playing time the very first day, and you’ll begin learning folk and rock songs using basic chords and strums within just a few classes in a motivational, supportive group atmosphere. Develop skills as you connect with those around you through a shared love of making music. Also covered: tuning and guitar care. No prerequisites, but an acoustic (or electric) guitar is required. Class sizes are limited to six or seven. Section 1: Mondays 8-9 pm 1/26-4/6 Kent Brown • $245 (or three payments of $85) Section 2: Wednesdays 7:15-8:15 pm 1/21-4/1 Janak Ramachandran • $245

(or three payments of $85)

@ Lennon (SOMA): Tuesdays 6-7 pm 1/20-3/31 Janak Ramachandran • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Guitar for People Who Know a Little

If you have a few months’ playing experience and know handful of chords (about eight of the following: E, A, D, G, C, Em, Am, E7, A7, D7) but aren’t quite making all chord changes smoothly and in time, this class will help you expand on what you already know and take your playing to the next level. This class covers more songs and skills, including basic fingerpicking. Usually, there are a half dozen songs that you can play from beginning to end, though not necessarily easily. Enroll now, and you’ll be jamming in no time! Section 1: Wednesdays 8-9 pm 1/21-4/1 Brian Gire • $245 (or three payments of $85) Section 2: Thursdays 7-8 pm 1/22-4/2 Kent Brown • $245 (or three payments of $85)

22 call 415.673.3600

Group classes are eleven weeks except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.

Guitar for People Who Know a Little More

For graduates of Know a Little or those with about six months of playing experience, you’ll continue working on songs with an emphasis on more advanced chords. Share the challenges and successes of expanding your playing abilities with others on the same path! You should know 10-15 chords and be able to make many of the chord changes smoothly. You may still have some difficulty playing the four-string (non-barre) F chord, and no one at this level is playing barre chords yet. You may or may not have learned some fingerpicking. Thursdays 8-9 pm 1/22-4/2 Kent Brown • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Acoustic Guitar IV

For graduates of Know a Little More or for those with 9 months to a year of playing experience, Acoustic Guitar IV will expand your song repertoire and skills using both rhythm and fingerstyle playing and work on barre chords. Tuesdays 8-9 pm 1/20-3/31 Kent Brown • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Acoustic Guitar V-XV

These classes are for continuing acoustic guitar students or for those with playing experience that is a good match for the class level. New students can join most ongoing acoustic guitar classes; call 415.673.3600 for accurate placement. Acoustic V: Thursdays 9-10 pm 1/22-4/2 Kent Brown • $245 (or three payments of $85) Acoustic VI: Mondays 6-7 pm 1/26-4/6 Kent Brown • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Kent Brown Beatles Songs!

For acoustic players who can make chord changes comfortably, learn arrangements of both early and later Beatles classics. Singing will be encouraged, with the possibility of working out some vocal arrangements as well. Mondays 7:30-8:30 pm 1/26-4/6 Janak Ramachandran • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Johnny Cash & Bob Dylan

For acoustic players who can make chord changes comfortably, learn arrangements to classic songs by iconic singer/songwriters Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan. Examples could include “Folsom Prison Blues,” “I Walk the Line,” “Sunday Morning Coming Down,” “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door,” “It’s All Over Now, Baby Blue,” but student input will be taken for song choices.

Acoustic VII @ Lennon (SOMA): Tuesdays 7-8 pm 1/20-3/31 Janak Ramachandran • $270

Tuesdays 8-9 pm 1/20-3/31 J.T. Locke • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Acoustic VII: Wednesdays 7-8 pm 1/21-4/1 Kent Brown • $270 (or three payments of $95)

For guitarists and ukulele players who can make chord changes comfortably, this class will learn and play fun arrangements by artists like The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and Carlos Santana and in styles from jazz to classical.

(or three payments of $95)

Acoustic VIII: Tuesdays 8-9 pm 1/20-3/31 Brian Gire • $270 (or three payments of $95) Acoustic XV: Mondays 7-8 pm 1/26-4/6 Kent Brown • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Acoustic Rocksemble

Mondays 7:30-8:30 pm 1/26-4/6 Matt Driscoll • $245 (or three payments of $85) visit bluebearmusic.org 23

Adult Guitar Classes Electric Lead Guitar

For guitarists who are comfortable playing open position and barre chords but with little previous lead playing work, this class will focus on scales and improvising within blues and rock chord progressions. Wednesdays 8-9 pm 1/21-4/1 J.T. Locke • $245 (or three payments of $85) Electric Lead Guitar II For graduates of Electric Lead Guitar, this class will continue to work on soloing skills, new scales and new chord progressions. New students may join who have knowledge of pentatonic scales and simple soloing skills. Tuesdays 7-8 pm 1/20-3/31 J.T. Locke • $245 (or three payments of $85) Electric Rhythm Guitar VI For graduates of Electric Rhythm Guitar V, this class will continue to work on timing, rhythm and right hand techniques. Tuesdays 6-7 pm 1/20-3/31 Randy Clark • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Mike Rao

Pamela Parker

Beginning Blues Guitar This class will introduce you to the basic 12-bar blues form and its variations, and to major and minor pentatonic scales and their use in soloing. You’ll learn some classic electric blues tunes and start to work on jamming over blues changes. Prerequisites: comfort playing open position and barre chords. Mondays 7-8 pm 1/26-4/6 Pamela Parker • $245 (or three payments of $85) Blues Guitar: Note for Note with the Kings For players who know the 12-bar blues form and minor pentatonic scale, this class will take you on a tour of the “three kings” of electric blues: Freddy King, Albert King and B.B. King. You’ll learn how to use major pentatonics and the blues scale as you learn solos and cover songs like “Hideaway,” “Blues Power” and “Sweet Little Angel.” Wednesdays 8-9 pm 1/21-4/1 Mike Rao • $245 (or three payments of $85) Beginning Jazz Guitar This class will introduce you to the more complex world of jazz chords and their voicings up and down the neck. Also included is jazz soloing, starting with the more blues-based work of artists like Kenny Burrell. For guitarists who are comfortable making chord changes, including barre chords, and who have some basic experience with the pentatonic scale and the 12-bar blues. Mondays 7-8 pm 1/26-4/6 Brian Gire • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Acoustic Jam Basics For those who are comfortable with basic playing skills on their instrument, this class will teach a repertoire of simple songs that will serve as vehicles for improvising. You’ll learn melody lines, basic information needed to take solos, and listening skills. Tuesdays 7-8 pm 1/20-3/31 Brian Gire • $245 (or three payments of $85) Acoustic Jam Basics II This class is for graduates of Acoustic Jam Basics, though new students can join who have some previous knowledge of scales and simple soloing. You’ll continue to learn new songs and build your soloing skills. Thursdays 8:30-9:45 pm 1/22-4/2 Brian Gire • $300 (or three payments of $105)

Intermediate Acoustic Jam Have fun playing with others! In a relaxed setting, you’ll learn and play through tunes from folk, bluegrass, Celtic and rock traditions. You can take solos and sing if you’d like, or just play rhythm with the group. Open to guitar, mandolin, fiddle, Dobro and banjo. New students with previous experience with scales and soloing can join ongoing Acoustic Jam classes; call 415.673.3600 for a new student interview for accurate placement. Mondays 8-9:15 pm 1/26-4/6 Brian Gire • $300 (or three payments of $105) Advanced Acoustic Jam New guitar, mandolin, fiddle, Dobro and banjo students with strong scale knowledge and soloing experience can join Advanced Acoustic Jam, an ongoing class of regulars who have been jamming together since 2009. Call 415.673.3600 for a new student interview for accurate placement. Thursdays 7-8:30 pm 1/22-4/2 Brian Gire • $345 (or three payments of $120)

JAM

Adult

Classes

Adult

UKULELE Classes Group classes are eleven weeks except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.

Beginning Ukulele

Class members will learn to play basic chords and to play songs in folk, rock and Hawaiian styles. Also covered: tuning, ukulele care, and basic strums. No prerequisites, but a ukulele is required. Tuesdays 8-9 pm 1/20-3/31 Matt Driscoll • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Ukulele II

For graduates of Beginning Ukulele or for those who have learned some basic chords on their own, class members will continue to expand their chord vocabulary and will learn to play more songs in folk, rock and Hawaiian styles. Tuesdays 7-8 pm 1/20-3/31 Matt Driscoll • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Ukulele VI

This class is for graduates of Ukulele V. Tuesdays 6-7 pm 1/20-3/31 Matt Driscoll • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Ukulele XIII

This class is for graduates of Ukulele XII. Mondays 6:30-7:30 pm 1/26-4/6 Matt Driscoll • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Acoustic Rocksemble

For guitarists and ukulele players who can make chord changes comfortably, this class will learn and play fun arrangements by bands and artists like The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and Carlos Santana and in styles from jazz to classical.

26 call 415.673.3600

MATT Driscoll

Mondays 7:30-8:30 pm 1/26-4/6 Matt Driscoll • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Adult

BASS Classes

Group classes are eleven weeks except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee. Bass players with 9 months or more of experience who can learn and play a variety of different bass lines can also join our Band Workshops (see pages 18-21).

Beginning Bass

This class is a square-one beginner class. We expect you know nothing about music and that you are picking up the instrument for the first time. If you have played guitar before, you should try Accelerated Bass for Guitarists. Mondays 7-8 pm 1/26-4/6 Mark Schuh • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Music Theory via The Beatles

Accelerated Bass for Guitarists

If you already play guitar, then you’re ready to get on the fast track to becoming more in-demand by learning the bass! This class will teach right hand fingering technique and will reveal how the bass, working with the drums, provides the foundation for most songs. You’ll learn bass lines in different styles, and upon graduation you can receive a $100 discount as a bass player in one of Blue Bear’s Band Workshops. After that, regular gigs and touring are realistic options in a world starved for bass players! Mondays 8:30-9:30 pm 1/26-4/6 Janak Ramachandran • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Adult

THEORY Classes

In this class, you’ll analyze various Beatles songs to develop an understanding of chords and chord progressions. You’ll learn the language of music theory while gaining a deeper appreciation of some of pop music’s greatest songs. For all instruments, including singers. Wednesdays 7-8 pm 1/21-4/1 Brian Gire • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Music Theory for Guitar

Group classes are eleven weeks except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.

Chord Magic for Guitarists

This class is for guitarists who have finally realized that they need to learn the basics: music terminology and basic theory taught in terms of standard music notation, in addition to how things look on the fretboard.

This class will explain the basics of chord construction with a minimum of “theory talk.” Chords and chord progressions are the juicy part of music theory, and this class will have you naming and creating chords, analyzing progressions and understanding music in a new way.

Wednesdays 9-10 pm 1/21-4/1 J.T. Locke • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Tuesdays 8-9 pm 1/20-3/31 Mark Schuh • $245 (or three payments of $85) visit bluebearmusic.org 27

VOICE Classes

Adult

Emily Thebaut

Janak Ramachandran

Singing for People Who Can’t Sing

You know who you are! But this class will prove you wrong, as you begin to gain control of your voice through simple exercises and ear training. By the end of eleven weeks, you’ll see improvement and enjoy increased confidence. Mondays 7-8:15 pm 1/26-4/6 Zosia Boczanowski • $300 (or three payments of $105)

More Singing for People Who Can’t Sing

This class is for graduates of Singing for People Who Can’t Sing. You’ll continue to strengthen your voice and work on new songs and singing skills. Tuesdays 7-8 pm 1/20-3/31 Emily Thebaut • $245

Learn to Sing: Group Singing for Beginners

Are you new to vocal coaching and guidance? Do you want to get your feet wet with group singing of exercises and songs? Begin with a solid foundation in technique and then apply those basic ideas in guided group singing of classic songs. Topics covered include fundamentals of posture and breathing, vowels and consonants, resonance and tone, as well as basic principles of song delivery. We’ll craft an opening warm-up with exercises that will begin the development of your voice and then have fun using those ideas to sing songs. Wednesdays 6-7:15 pm 1/21-4/1 Janak Ramachandran • $300 (or three payments of $105)

(or three payments of $85)

“Janak Ramachandran’s classes helped me make big improvements in both my singing and my stage presence. Very highly recommended to all you rock star wannabes!” — Mark Mayper 28 call 415.673.3600

Group classes are eleven weeks except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.

Learn to Sing II: Group and Solo Singing

This class is for graduates of Group Singing for Beginners. Continue your vocal development with more challenging exercises and group singing of songs designed to hone the techniques already learned. Topics explored in greater detail include harmony and interval training, singing into the bridge, and range development. In our last few sessions, you will have the opportunity to bring material of your own choosing to sing, receiving supportive guidance with concrete ideas to practice in improving your song delivery. Wednesdays 8:15-9:30 pm 1/21-4/1 Janak Ramachandran • $300 (or three payments of $105)

Singing for People Who Can Sing

For those with some band, theater or choral singing experience but little or no previous vocal instruction. Sessions will cover the basics of proper vocal technique: breathing and support, warm-ups, developing your range, tone, placement and articulation. There’ll be lots of group vocal drills and some individual presentation of songs. Wednesdays 8:30-9:45 pm 1/21-4/1 Lea Centauri • $300

(or three payments of $105)

More Singing for People Who Can Sing This class is for graduates of Singing for People Who Can Sing. You’ll continue work on harmonic ear, vowel embellishment, inner music, vocal tuning, vocal scales for strengthening the voice, increasing vocal range, breathing, singing triplets and individual presentation of songs. Wednesdays 7:15-8:30 pm 1/21-4/1 Lea Centauri • $300 (or three payments of $105)

Lea Centauri 29

Adult VOICE CLASSES Sing with Soul!

In singers ranging from Aretha Franklin and Smokey Robinson to Rihanna, James Blake and Amy Winehouse, you hear the sound of soul — a connection to African-American vocal traditions rooted in gospel and blues music. Teacher Robert Blake grew up singing in a Southern gospel choir and will help you connect to the source and the sounds of soul. Tuesdays 7-8 pm 1/20-3/31 Robert Blake • $245 (or three payments of $85)

ROBERT BLAKE

Beginning Jazz Vocals

This class will introduce you to the repertoire and the stylistic approaches taken by both classic and contemporary jazz singers. You’ll sing to music-minus-one recordings and receive oneon-one coaching on presentation and technique. Class limit of four. Wednesdays 6-7:15 pm 1/21-4/1 Lea Centauri • $300 (or three payments of $105)

Jazz Vocal Performance

In this all-singing class, intermediate to advanced vocalists will rehearse and perform a repertoire of jazz songs with expert piano accompaniment, leading up to a performance at the quarterly Blue Bear Showcase. Open to singers who are new to jazz as well as those who are familiar with the repertoire. Tuition includes two rehearsals with bassist. Class limit of five. Saturdays 1:30-3 pm 1/24-4/4 Sharman Duran • $395 (or three payments of $135)

Rock & Pop Vocal Performance

Designed as a follow-on class to Janak’s Learn to Sing series, and for vocalists in a band or Band Workshop (or preparing for one), this class will give you the opportunity for individualized coaching on material you want to sing. The vocal style component will guide students in how to affect the vocal delivery of songs from varying genres with an emphasis on tools that bring the emotional content of the lyric to life. The stage presence section of the class will introduce students to techniques from the acting world that allow the student to marry the emotional choices they are making vocally with stage movement and behavior. It all culminates in a performance at the end of the class at the quarterly Blue Bear Band Showcases! This class is, ideally, for students with some vocal training and can be repeated as needed. Class limit of four. Thursdays 8-9:30 pm 1/22-4/2 Janak Ramachandran • $345 (or three payments of $120)

Blue Bear Chorus

Learn 3- and 4-part arrangements to a wide range of songs, including pop, traditional and classical repertoire. You’ll enjoy lots of singing time, plus tune up your ear and gain a better understanding of how to harmonize and get a great blend. No previous instruction in technique is required, but you must be able to sing in tune, and teacher approval is required for joining the chorus. Tuesdays 8-9:15 pm 1/20-3/31 Emily Thebaut • $300 (or three payments of $105)

visit bluebearmusic.org 31

CREATINGProgram MUSIC New year. New music. New program. Blue Bear’s Creating Music Program is for students who want to create and help others create original music. The program includes songwriting classes to help you craft original music and lyrics, but what if you want to take the next step with your original song? Blue Bear is excited to offer a new workshop geared toward students and bands interested in making studio recordings of original music: Creating Music in the Studio. Whether you are a composer or a collaborator, Blue Bear wants to help you take the next step in making the world a more musical place. See you in the studio,

Creating Music in the Studio

For songwriters and musicians eager to contribute to an original music project, this workshop will cover recording preparation, learning to use studio time effectively, tracking and mixing, with plenty of expert guidance from your teacher/producer. A typical workshop will have two songwriters (one song each) and two to five supporting musicians who will contribute both to the creative process and to the writing and recording of individual parts. Upon completion, students will have a recording of original music that they participated in (also posted on Bandcamp) along with much practical studio experience. Section 1: Tuesdays 7-9:30 pm 1/20-3/24 (ten weeks) Zosia Boczanowski • $425 (or three payments of $145)

Section 2: Wednesdays 6-8:30 pm 1/21-3/25 (ten weeks) Colin Hayes • $425 (or three payments of $145)

Colin Hayes Recording Division Director

Section 3: Wednesdays 8:30-11 pm 1/21-3/25 (ten weeks) Colin Hayes • $425 (or three payments of $145)

Record Your Band!

If you’re a band that wants to make a demo, learn how to make the most out of studio time and become more independent with your recording needs, call Blue Bear to schedule your own 10-week session tailored to your situation. Upon completion, you’ll have a recording and valuable hands-on experience and instruction gained from working with your teacher and producer. Call 415.673.3600 for a free consultation.

COLIN HAYES

Write Your First Song

In this introductory class you’ll learn about song forms and how to write chord progressions, melodies and lyrics. In-class assignments will guide you step-by-step through writing a complete song and give you the tools you need to generate ideas and complete songs on your own. Tuesdays 8-9:15 pm 1/20-3/31 (11 weeks) Pamela Parker • $300 (or three payments of $105)

Songwriting Workshop

This songwriting workshop is a place for active songwriters to bring their ideas and songs for constructive feedback, and to get new ideas and approaches for writing. Open to any level of writer who can present their live or recorded material in class. Mondays 8:15-9:30 pm 1/26-4/6 (11 weeks) Zosia Boczanowski • $300 (or three payments of $105)

Zosia Boczanowski

Six-Week Songwriting Workshops with Peter Case

Peter Case is a three-time Grammy-nominated, performing singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer who brings 25 years of songwriting experience to these exciting and popular workshops. Beginning with an exploration of the craft involved in the classic songs of Dylan and the Beatles as well as songs of the present day, you’ll develop and present your own songs and song ideas for further discussion in class. These workshops are an encouraging, friendly and at times humorous environment in which to either begin writing songs or to further your skills. In the Beginning Songwriting Workshop, you’ll learn techniques for producing ideas and how to develop those ideas into a complete song. Topics include song structure, bridges, guitar tunings as a compositional tool, and breaking through “writer’s block” with weekly assignments to guide your writing efforts. This class is for those who are just at the beginning stages of writing, or for those who would like to write their first song. You should have some basic skills on guitar or piano, or be able to sing. Saturdays 11 am-2 pm 1/24-2/28 (six weeks) Peter Case • $410 In the Songwriters Workshop, experienced writers will learn techniques for producing ideas, exercises for improving the vividness and power of their songs, and many more tricks of the trade. Topics include song structure, bridges, guitar tunings as a compositional tool, and breaking through “writer’s block.” Every week, there is a songwriting assignment designed to integrate what you’ve learned in class with your own ideas and inspiration. People are invited to bring their acoustic guitar (or other portable instrument), a notebook and a pen, and you will be encouraged to play the week’s assigned song in the workshop (though performance is not mandatory). Saturdays 2:30-5:30 pm 1/24-2/28 (six weeks) Peter Case • $410

visit bluebearmusic.org 33

Adult

SHORT SEMIN ARS

Between quarters, Blue Bear offers Short Seminars, classes that only meet for one night on a wide range of topics. They are led by some of Blue Bear’s most popular teachers, along with special guest instructors, and are a low-cost way to dip your toes in the water! Blue Bear students may take one free Short Seminar per year as a benefit of your Member Fee; call 415.673.3600 to enroll. New students can sign up for Short Seminars online without paying the Member Fee.

Beginning Harmonica

This seminar will focus on basic harmonica techniques (such as bends, vibrato, tongue blocking), ways of enriching tone, and playing blues in second and third positions (both soloing and accompanying). Monday January 12, 7-9 pm Ilya Portnov • $30

Vocal Care & Stage Presence for Singers

Learn how to care for and warm up your voice, and then learn techniques to keep your audience engaged. Includes individualized coaching for students who want to perform a song in class. Monday January 12, 7-9 pm Zosia Boczanowski • $30

Intro to Mandolin

For those who are brand new to the mandolin, this seminar will discuss the basics: fingering and picking technique, plus simple chords and an introduction to a scale pattern. Monday January 12, 7-9 pm Brian Gire • $30

34 call 415.673.3600

Getting a Great Electric Guitar Sound

Electric guitar players have many options in amps, guitars and effects to help create a sound. This seminar will discuss and demonstrate the different types of amps (Class A, Class A/B and solid state) and look into different types of electric guitars and pickup configurations. You’ll also explore guitar effects and how to use them in the signal chain to expand your sonic palette. Tuesday January 13, 7-9 pm J.T. Locke • $30

J.T. LOCKE

Acoustic Jam Basic Training for Guitar

For those guitarists who can make chord changes easily and want to jam, this seminar will lay out the basics of what you need to know to proceed. You’ll cover essential scales, chord progressions and strumming patterns used in folk and bluegrass styles. Tuesday January 13, 7-9 pm Brian Gire • $30

Voice!

This seminar is a wonderful overview of the voice as the most basic tool of human expression. You’ll work with breath and the ear, and learn about styles of singing from jazz and pop to show tunes and rap. Includes group singing and vocal exercises. Wednesday January 14, 7-9 pm Lea Centauri • $30

Piano Secrets of Vocal Accompaniment

This seminar is for piano and keyboard players who want to accompany themselves or other singers. Sharman Duran will discuss many aspects of how to play, and how not to play, in order to best support a singer. Wednesday January 14, 7-9 pm Sharman Duran • $30

Triad Power

This seminar will reveal the tremendous benefits that come from understanding the structure of three-note chords on your guitar, and how they appear on the fretboard. Special emphasis on using triads as a jumping off point for soloing. Thursday January 15, 7-9 pm Brian Gire • $30

SHARMAN DURAN

Survey of Fingerpicking Styles and Technique

This seminar will explore accompaniment and solo fingerstyle guitar skills as used in folk, blues, classical and jazz styles. Wednesday January 14, 7-9 pm Brian Gire • $30

How to Sing and Play Guitar Together

You can sing, you can play, but it all falls apart when you try to put it together? Learn tips for how to practice and develop singing-whileplaying skills, including the most important aspects of basic vocal technique. Wednesday January 14, 7-9 pm Janak Ramachandran • $30

Alternate Picking Technique for Guitar

For any guitarist who is seeking a more accurate and fluid approach to both picking and strumming. Logical fingering will also be addressed and handouts will be provided covering the material discussed. Thursday January 15, 7-9 pm Steve Kirk • $30

STEVE KIRK visit bluebearmusic.org 35

Group classes are eleven weeks except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.

Kids & Teens

GROUP CLASSES After School Rock Bands

These bands will learn and play songs by a variety of contemporary and classic bands. Members should already be proficient on their instrument, and ideally be in private lessons concurrently. This is a chance to put the hard work of learning your instrument into practice, in real time, with other young rockers. The Monday and Thursday bands are for players in grades 8-11; the Tuesday band is for players in grades 5-8. Section 1: (grades 8-11): Mondays 4:30-6 pm 1/19-3/30 • J.T. Locke • $345 (or three payments of $120)

Section 2: (grades 5-8): Tuesdays 4:15-5:30 pm 1/20-3/31 • J.T. Locke • $300 (or three payments of $105)

Section 3: (grades 8-11): Thursdays 4:30-6 pm 1/22-4/2 • J.T. Locke • $345 (or three payments of $120)

“Thank you for all you do to make this possible. Our son Shawn really enjoyed himself, and what a great experience for him and his band!” — Wendy Bolker

Your Own Rock Band

If you have a minimum group of four young musicians who would like to be coached as a band together, we can schedule an 11-week after school or weekend rock band session to start anytime. Call for details – 415.673.3600.

Bear Cubs (grades 1-3)

Is your child outgrowing Little Bears classes but still not ready for private lessons? Never fear, Bear Cubs is here! Finally, what every parent has been waiting for: a drop-off group music class for 6-, 7- and 8-year-olds. Co-taught by the powerhouse duo Teacher Barb and Miss Zosia, Bear Cubs is a high energy, hands-on exploration of melody and rhythm. Teachers use engaging songs and fun musical games to help children find their voice, learn to sing in tune and discover the true magic of singing in harmony. Children play real instruments, explore rhythm and scale patterns, begin to identify basic note and chord values and identify changes in tempos and time signatures. Come join us in a play-based musical environment where children learn from other children, sing their hearts out and get their groove on! Tuesdays 4-4:50 pm 1/20-4/7 (12 weeks) Barb Murphy & Zosia Boczanowski • $395 (or three payments of $135)

36 call 415.673.3600

Instrument Petting Zoo (grades 2-4)

This class is for beginners who are curious about music and want to learn about different instruments before choosing one to focus on. Students sing songs and play the four main rock band instruments - drums, bass, guitar and piano. They’ll learn fundamental concepts of rhythm, melody, harmony, meter, tempo, scale and key. In addition to learning how these instruments are played in popular music, related concepts in basic math, pattern relations and emotional qualities will also be explored. Thursdays 4-4:45 pm 1/22-4/2 Devin Lane • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Beginning Keyboards (grades 1-2)

This class will use the Little Mozart instruction books to engage the very young beginner in learning music and developing basic piano skills. Texts are included in class tuition. Students should have a piano or keyboard at home to practice on. Class limit of three. Wednesdays 4-4:45 pm 1/21-4/1 Lea Centauri • $260 (or three payments of $90)

Beginning Keyboards (grades 3-4)

This class will use the Piano Adventures books to introduce young beginners to basic keyboard and piano skills. Texts are included in class tuition. Students should have a piano or keyboard at home to practice on. Class limit of three. Wednesdays 5-5:45 pm 1/21-4/1 Lea Centauri • $260 (or three payments of $90)

Beginning Guitar (grades 4-6)

This square-one beginner class will teach basic chords, strumming and simple songs in rock and popular music styles. No prerequisites, but a guitar is required. Class limit of four. Thursdays 5-5:45 pm 1/22-4/2 Devin Lane • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Green Day Guitar (grades 7-9)

This class is for young guitarists who want to learn to rock. Through learning popular songs from bands like Green Day, you’ll expand your chord and strumming skills on either acoustic or electric guitar. Prerequisites: ability to move comfortably between open position chords. Thursdays 5-6 pm 1/22-4/2 Janak Ramachandran • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Perform Like a Pop Star! (grades 5-7)

Students will pick pop songs from artists like Katy Perry, Lana Del Rey and Taylor Swift, and will then learn how to sing them. In addition to lots of solo and group singing, you’ll also work on routines and stage presence. Tuesdays 5-6 pm 1/20-3/31 Zosia Boczanowski • $245 (or three payments of $85)

Creating Music in the Studio

For young songwriters and musicians eager to contribute to an original music project, this class will cover song arrangement and recording preparation, tracking and mixing, and learning about the roles of a producer in recording. A typical class will have one or two songwriters and two to four supporting musicians who will contribute both to the creative process and to the writing and recording of individual parts. Upon completion, students will have a recording of original music that they participated in (also posted on Bandcamp) along with much practical studio experience. Wednesdays 4:30-6 pm 1/21-4/1 Zosia Boczanowski • $345 (or three payments of $120)

visit bluebearmusic.org 37

Kids & Teens

ALL STAR BANDS

During every All Star Band performance, there isn’t a moment when I am not blown away by our young performers, lighting up the stage. After weeks of rehearsing they show up and somehow always exceed my expectations. Some say “it’s only rock and roll,” but I see teamwork, commitment, growth, courage, responsibility, stage professionalism and most important, fun!

Students learn what it actually takes to thatch together individual assignments to create a piece of artistic expression. During this process, they learn about their own instrument and craft, yet also learn to listen to what other students are offering. I believe music is a collective conversation with your band mates, portraying a story to the listeners. Students learn that craft of conversation, but also learn to reflect on the dialogue and strengthen the intended delivery. I have no doubt that developing this skill is one of the most important processes for the program, but it’s also an important process for future success anywhere outside the bandstand.

When we started the All Star Band program, we intended on creating an atmosphere full of community, skill building and a fun platform to rock out. We wanted to give young rockers the best atmosphere for learning and to give them the opportunity to perform in real, professional venues for their performances. Now, I see we’ve managed just a little bit more than that. What we’ve created is a collective of dedicated young players willing to learn and develop the traits for success, on and off the stage.

Ryan Hickey All Star Band Director 38 call 415.673.3600

The All Star Band program is a comprehensive 9-month performance and education curriculum for 5th-12th graders. Using rock music as a platform, students strengthen their instrumental technique, ensemble playing, performance, improvisation, music theory and songwriting. This unique program provides fantastic opportunities to play real shows in real venues around San Francisco. Students participate in weekly rehearsals, with guided instruction by inspirational teachers. Program Requirements

All Star Bands require a commitment of the majority of weekly rehearsals. Students may audition mid-year and will be placed in the program based on age, skill level and availability of spots in ensembles. Students must have a basic understanding of their instrument or voice and we highly recommend current, ongoing music lessons.

Times and Tuition

Tuition for January-May 2015 is $675. Rehearsal time is likely to be Saturday 3-6 pm, but other Saturday times could be available depending on band placement.

Audition & Placement Requirements

Entering musicians must prepare a song to play with a backing band, improvise over a 12-bar blues pattern (optional), demonstrate chord changes and varying rhythm patterns. Call the school to set up an audition. We will accept new band members through January.

Performances

Come hear our All Star Bands at the 2014 Blue Bear Holiday Party! Sunday, December 14, 5:30-9 pm The Chapel 777 Valencia St. San Francisco FREE TO ALL

Kids & Teens

SUMMER CAMPS

Dear students and parents,

The reverberations from fantastic musical jams last summer can still be heard here at Blue Bear as we look forward to our 2015 summer camps.

Blue Bear camps offer exciting opportunities for kids in grades 4-12 to make great music with their peers and to have an amazing time learning while playing.

Our music camps have a defining characteristic that sets them apart from others: a high teacher to student ratio, with instructors on each instrument group. We very effectively provide personalized instruction for all students, beginner to advanced, engaging them in the learning process from square one. We also have an incredibly talented roster of people at the helm. While our instructors have performed around the globe with the best, they are all professional teachers, highly skilled and able to impart real-world knowledge in a helpful and accessible way.

In our camps, students have opportunities to write songs, sharpen instrument skills, learn how to interact in an ensemble, and get serious performance chops by leading shows in our performance hall. Kids are invigorated, challenged and inspired to do their best work â&#x20AC;&#x201D; an experience that resonates far beyond the musical stage. So throw on a new set of strings, polish your horn, practice your paradiddles and get ready for an amazing summer in 2015 at Blue Bear. Both at Fort Mason and in Marin â&#x20AC;&#x201D; we are ready to Rock U!

Nils Erickson Summer Camp Director

40 call 415.673.3600

This is a pressure-free camp for beginning musicians going into grades 4-6 (fall 2015) who have some previous instruction – six months of lessons on an instrument is recommended. Activities include playing easy songs, singing, jamming, trying different instruments, musical games, and playing outside at lunchtime! Individualized instrument and vocal instruction will lead to mastery of parts and get everyone playing in a band. There will be a performance on Friday afternoon.

Girls Rock! Camp

This camp is for girls going into grades 4-7 (fall 2015) who want to learn to rock. Campers will learn to play simple pop and rock songs and perform at the end of the week. Some musical experience is helpful, but is not a requirement – girls will learn to play parts at whatever level of musicianship they bring with them, and will have a chance to try out different band instruments.

Rock U 1 Camp

This workshop offers musicians going into grades 6-8 (fall 2015) an opportunity to play the music they like with their peers. A minimum of one year of lessons is required. Repertoire is selected by the group, which rehearses every day. A typical day includes group lessons in the morning, a lunchtime jam with staff, and band rehearsals in the afternoon. The week culminates with a show on late Friday afternoon.

Rock U 2 Camp

This workshop offers musicians going into grades 7-10 (fall 2015) an opportunity to play the music they like with their peers. A minimum of one year of lessons is required. Repertoire is selected by the group, which rehearses every day. A typical day includes group lessons in the morning, a lunchtime jam with staff, and band rehearsals in the afternoon. The week culminates with a show on late Friday afternoon.

Rock U 3 Camp

A workshop for musicians going into grades 8-12 (fall 2015) who have been playing for a minimum of three years, this camp offers students a chance to play music they like with their peers. Repertoire is selected by the group, which rehearses every day. Lots of hands-on experience jamming, soloing, songwriting, and playing complex arrangements. The week culminates with a show on late Friday afternoon.

“I would highly recommend Blue Bear as the go-to place for your children’s musical experiences!” — Kristen Lemaster visit bluebearmusic.org 41 41

Kids & Teens SumMer Camps Hard Rock Camp

This workshop offers musicians going into grades 7-10 (fall 2015) an opportunity to rock hard with their peers. A minimum of one year of lessons is required. Repertoire is selected by the group, which rehearses every day. A typical day includes group lessons in the morning, a lunchtime jam with staff, and band rehearsals in the afternoon. The week culminates with a show on late Friday afternoon.

Songwriting Camp

This workshop is for young people who write songs or want to, and for musicians who want to play original music instead of cover songs. Students will write, arrange and perform their songs, and receive a recording of the show. Learn the techniques that the bands you love use to create the songs you listen to through workshops on lyrics, form, arranging and more. Songwriting I is for kids going into Grades 6-9 (fall 2015). Songwriting 2 is for teens going into Grades 8-12 (fall 2015).

Guitar Camp

This camp is for teens going into grades 7-11 (fall 2015) who have been playing two years or more and who know open chords, E and A form barre chords, and minor pentatonic scales. In this week-long intensive, students will work on lead and rhythm guitar techniques, writing their own guitar parts, learning classic guitar solos, and crafting different guitar tones with amps and effects. Students will perform on Friday afternoon. 42 call 415.673.3600

Voice Camp

This camp is for kids going into grades 3-6 (fall 2015). Voice Camp is a week of singing fun! Students expand their vocal abilities in a relaxed environment, singing by themselves and in groups. They will gain valuable experience singing with musical accompaniment, and get to show off their newly honed skills at the end of the week with a performance. Topics include techniques and warm up, harmony and round singing, musical games, musicianship and more. If you have a singing kid, this is the camp for them! Monday - Friday, 1-3 pm.

Composing for Film, TV & Games Camp

This camp is for teens going into grades 9-12 (fall 2015). Using a digital audio workstation, students will learn how to create and score music. Activities will include ear training, theme writing, scoring and mixing audio and sound effects along with discussions about music theory and composition aesthetics.

Creating Music in the Studio Camp

For young songwriters and musicians going into grades 8-10 (fall 2015) who want to contribute to an original music project, campers will work on song arrangements and recording preparation, tracking and mixing, and learning about the roles of a producer in recording. Open to one or two songwriters and up to four supporting musicians, everyone will contribute to the creative process and to the writing and recording of individual parts. Upon completion, students will have a recording of original music that they played on (also posted on Bandcamp) along with practical studio experience.

SKILL LEVEL GUIDELINES

We strongly suggest the following skill levels for each Summer Camp:

Get Ready to Rock

• Campers will do best if they have been playing an instrument or singing in an organized setting for at least six months.

Rock U 1

• Suggested minimum of one year of lessons for all instruments. • Drummers should be able to play a simple rock beat for one minute. • Bassists should know names of notes and be able to play one song through to the end. • Guitarists should know open position chords and E form barre chords. • Keyboardists should know major and minor triads in root position.

Rock U 2

• Suggested minimum of two years of lessons for all instruments. • Drummers should be able to fill without losing time, and be able to hold three minutes of a simple rock beat. • Bassists should know names of notes and how to read chord charts, and be able to play eighth notes through changes. • Guitarists should know open chords and E and A form barre chords, and know minor penta tonic scales. • Keyboardists should know major and minor triads, and know the blues scale.

Most camps meet Monday to Friday 10 am - 3 pm, plus a performance Friday afternoon. See our website for the 2015 Summer Camp Schedule!

Rock U 3

• Suggested minimum of three years of lessons for all instruments. • Drummers should know syncopated kick drum patterns, shuffle and 6/8 beats. • Bassists should know syncopated bass lines. • Guitarists should know syncopated guitar rhythms (e.g., AC/DC) and riff songs (e.g., Led Zeppelin). • Keyboardists should know 7th chords and inversions, be able to play syncopated rhythms and to play melodies and improvise.

Songwriting 1 and 2

• Suggested minimum of one year of lessons for Songwriting 1, and two years of lessons for Songwriting 2. 43

Little

BEARS

Who and what are Little Bears? Simply put, Little Bears bobble, weave and dance to their own beat. Little Bears instructors are working musicians who know how early childhood music education helps develop speech, hand-eye coordination and creativity. Little Bears offers classes to suit any kid and their accompanying parent or caregiver (we want to make this fun for everyone in the classroom).

Music affects all people of all ages; that’s why we began teaching classes for children as young as four months. What can a newborn really do in a music class? A lot! At birth, children are receptive to sounds, vibrations and voices, so in our Baby Bears classes, parents guide the lessons with gentle clapping and singing, learning to incorporate music into everyday routines. I’ve heard from many families over the years that before their child could stand, walk or talk, they could mimic clapping and memorize and respond to rhythm patterns from class.

For our active new walkers and future rock star preschoolers, we offer Bouncy and Boogie Bears classes. Our teachers have developed special curricula that get everyone singing, doing far-out dance moves, and adding a healthy dose of music education that is actually fun! Did I mention intense drum circles?! As Director of the Little Bears program for the last five years, I’ve made it my goal to keep classes fun, engaging, educational and above all — rockin’ — both for kids and kids at heart. Hope to see you this winter!

Tanya Wheeler Little Bears Director 44 call 415.673.3600

Little Bears class enrollment is done online and no annual Member Fee is required. Here are the Top 5 reasons why Little Bears classes are right for your child â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and for you! 1. Our teachers are actual musicians GROUP classes Baby Bears (4 months-1 year)

This class will introduce your child to the wonderful world of music through lap songs, finger-plays, sing-alongs and rhythm-based activities. Parents in this class learn to sing a variety of playful and soothing rhythms and melodies to bring home and use for bath time, dinner time, play time and sleepy time. Please bring a blanket.

Bouncy Bears (1-3 years)

Children in this class will create musical sounds and rhythms with their voices and bodies, play finger games, dance and move to the music, hear familiar and new songs and rock out during the percussion instrument jam. Parents be warned: there will be lots of jumping, bouncing, moving, grooving and playing in this class!

Boogie Bears (3-5 years)

These preschoolers are ready to rock and roll, raise the roof and jam out! Children will discover their own talking and singing voices, dance to the beat, and explore rhythm with real musical instruments. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s make some music and boogie down to it!

Get the Beat (3-5 years)

The perfect class for any kid (and adult) who is obsessed with any and all things drum, including makeshift drums, treating the cat like drums, and virtually making everything a backbeat. Celebrate drums with us in the New Year without the neighbors complaining!

who love making music.

2. Singing helps children with vocal and speech development. 3. Dancing and instrument play help children develop motor skills. 4. Aural training helps children build listening and concentration skills. 5. Because kids and adults LOVE to rock. So let your little ones sing their hearts out, move to the music and make some noise!

Mixed Bears (6 months-5 years)

This class is specially designed for parents with more than one child. Babies, toddlers and big kids all join in the music making fun, watching and learning from one another. There will be plenty of music, movement and instrument play for children of all ages.

Music and Dance (3-5 years)

Children will use their imagination and develop skills for singing, movement and play-acting. This class enables the child and caregiver to learn new skills in a fun and interactive environment. It will encourage confidence and creativity in an environment designed to let the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s imagination flourish!

LITTLE BEARS

Classes start the week of January 12 and run for 12 weeks.

class schedule Baby Bears (4 months-1 year)

Also of interest to Little Bears graduates:

Bouncy Bears (1-3 years)

Tue 4-4:50 pm 1/13-3/31 • $395 w/ Barb Murphy & Zosia Boczanowski See page 36 for details!

Tue 11-11:45 am w/Rachel 1/13-3/31 • $275 Thurs 11-11:45 am w/Rachel 1/15-4/2 • $275 Mon 10-10:45 am w/Andrea 1/12-3/30 • $275 Mon 3:30-4:15 pm w/Barb 1/12-3/30 • $295 Tue 10-10:45 am w/Rachel 1/13-3/31 • $275 Wed 10-10:45 am w/Barb 1/14-4/1 • $295 Wed 3:30-4:15 am w/Andrew 1/14-4/1 • $275 Thur 10-10:45 am w/Rachel 1/15-4/2 • $275 Fri 10-10:45 am w/Andrew 1/16-4/3 • $275 Fri 3:30-4:15 pm w/Heather 1/16-4/3 • $275 Bouncy Bears @ Calvary Presbyterian Church Thurs 10-10:45 am w/Andrew 1/15-4/2 • $275

Boogie Bears (3-5 years)

Mon 4:30-5:15 pm w/Barb 1/12-3/30 • $295

Get the Beat (3-5 years)

Wed 4:30-5:15 pm w/Andrew 1/14-4/1 • $275

Music and Dance (3-5 years)

Mon 11-11:45 am w/Andrea 1/12-3/30 • $275

Mixed Bears (6 months-5 years)

Wed 11-11:45 am w/Barb 1/14-4/1 • $295 Fri 11-11:45 am w/Andrew 1/16-4/3 • $275 Fri 2:30-3:15 pm w/Heather 1/16-4/3 • $275

46 call 415.673.3600

Bear Cubs (6-8 years)

POLICIES • Payment does not guarantee space in a class.

Once payment is received, we will call to confirm your enrollment. • If you have signed up for a class that is already full, we will put you on a waiting list and discuss alternate sections. A full refund is given if we are unable to place you in a class. • To check for most current space availability call Blue Bear at 415.673.3600. • We do offer a pro-rate of $25 per class if you wish to join the session late (cannot be applied retroactively, and can only happen after the second week of classes; please call 415.673.3600 to sign up). You are welcome to participate in make up classes when signing up for the majority of the session. • If you wish to pay per class, you need to schedule it at least one-day in advance of the class by calling the front desk at 415.673.3600; it is $25/class and cannot be refunded, rescheduled or canceled. • Your tuition grants you access to two make-up classes per session. Please take a look at the makeup calendar or call the school for more information. • Tuition is based on one child, but we do offer an instant $20-off discount when signing up a second or third child. • All classes are with parent or caregiver participation. We promise you will have an awesome time!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Do you offer trial classes?

In order to regulate our class sizes and keep classes consistent and rockin’, we do not offer free drop-in trial classes. All students need to enroll and pay tuition in advance to be expected in a class. However if it isn’t a good fit for any reason we are more than happy to issue a 100% refund as long as you contact us two days prior to your second class.

Can I join a class after it has started?

If you are interested in joining a class after the first day, please call 415.673.3600 and we can sign you up as long as there is room (please note: the refund policy below will still apply to you).

Do you pro-rate?

We are able to pro-rate after the second week of classes at a rate of $25/ class. Please contact the front desk at 415.673.3600 to enroll.

What if I need to drop a class?

If you decide to discontinue a class for any reason, please contact us 415.673.3600 two days prior to the second class meeting for a full refund. After the second class, no refund shall be given. However we understand children live on their own schedules and we will do our best to figure out a good solution for you.

I have more than one child; do I need to pay for both of them?

We always think the more the merrier, but all of our classes our based on occupancy, so all participants do need to pay tuition. However, we offer $20 off an additional sibling’s tuition when registered for the same class.

I have a newborn; can I bring them to the class with my other child?

Depending on the enrollment of the class, we can usually accommodate that request. Please call the school directly to see about enrollment. Just be aware that some classes can be quite loud for brand new ears, so we may suggest baby ear muffs so no nap is interrupted.

Can I switch to another class?

If you would like to switch to a different class for any reason, please contact us 415.673.3600. If the class is not full, we should be able to accommodate your request.

I really need to run errands; can I drop my child off for the class? No, no and no. Not only is the parent or caregiver participation imperative when singing in rounds, but we firmly believe that children learn from watching you engage with the music and instruments.

Is it okay to bring guests to the class?

We love visitors, but due to limited instruments and room size, we advise that you ask your instructor prior to inviting guests to come. 47 visit bluebearmusic.org 41

Community

PROGRAMS Reaching out!

It’s an unfortunate truth that public school offerings of arts and music have suffered cuts that only seem to get deeper. In response, Blue Bear’s outreach and community programs for our city’s youth have expanded. Serving hundreds of music-starved children in public and private schools and in community centers citywide, Blue Bear’s programming fosters the musical flame in those who have it, and lights a spark in those who don’t. With offerings like Digital Audio Production and Songwriting for teens in Bayview and Instrument Petting Zoo for elementary students in Twin Peaks, our community programming has something for everyone, regardless of ability. Our Rock Band Program (at Academy of Arts and Sciences and Rooftop Elementary) has produced bands that have graced professional stages at Cafe Du Nord and Bimbo’s.

These programs have led to wonderful partnerships with organizations like the YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, GLIDE Memorial Church, SFUSD and more.

Most important, we have witnessed firsthand the powerful and positive changes that involvement in the arts can bring our kids. Students in the gritty, challenging Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco have created incredibly poignant and personal songs, demonstrating the cathartic power of writing and performing music. For nearly ten years, Rock Band at Rooftop has produced young musicians who’ve been accepted at the prestigious Ruth Asawa School of the Arts to continue their artistic growth. Blue Bear’s outreach programs are indeed transforming lives. To set up programming at a location near you, don’t hesitate to contact Blue Bear. MUSIC SAVES!

Cole Odin Berggren Community Programs Director 48 call 415.673.3600

Other Digital Audio Classes Studio 101: Beginning Digital Audio Production — Teaches students to create their own original songs using the acclaimed Apple program GarageBand. They work with a professional Blue Bear instructor to write, arrange and record instrumental and vocal tracks for their own compositions, or use GarageBand “clips” (or samples) to create their own remixes (a simpler version of this course is available for younger students). Music appreciation and understanding of all musical styles demonstrates the variety of types of songs students can create. All levels and interests are welcome, with no previous musical instruction required. At the end of the class, the students receive a CD of their original songs. Studio 201 — Furthers the instruction and offers a glimpse into other more advanced programs such as Ableton, Logic and Pro Tools. This course is designed to begin the transition into a more professional use of digital audio. Collaborative partnerships with onsite visual arts classes are also a possibility.

DJ Course — For students interested in a more current musical art form. Our teachers cover the history, technique and equipment, using DJ media of all types from classic vinyl to CDs, and newer methods including “laptop DJing” using the Serato and Ableton Live programs. This program covers all styles and genres of DJing from hip hop to techno, with performance opportunities at completion of the course. Current and past partner sites for Blue Bear Digital Audio Programs include:

visit bluebearmusic.org 49

Community PROGRAMS

As a nonprofit organization, Blue Bear is committed to making a difference beyond the scope of our in-house programs. We partner with a variety of schools and other community centers to provide free and low-cost music education. Group classes Blue Bear community programs provide highquality instruction by our artists-in-residence. These classes are geared for elementary through high school settings and students often participate in public performances that build confidence and self-esteem.

Grades 2-4 Get Rhythm — Our entry-level class teaches students the fundamentals of one of music’s most important building blocks. Active listening and music appreciation expose students to a wide range of music styles. A variety of hand percussion instruments are played and students participate in jams with the instructor. The fundamentals of mathematics are stressed along with an introduction to the melodic components, and the instruments progress up to the level of keyboard, steel drums, bass and vibes.

50 call 415.673.3600

Instrument Petting Zoo — Designed for the beginning-level music student, with the goal of increasing interest and helping determine which instrument they like best and want to focus on. Students play the five main rock instruments including drums, bass, guitar, keys and voice, and learn the fundamental concepts of rhythm, melody, harmony, meter, tempo, scale and key. They experience how the various instruments work on a basic level through instruction and usage in popular music and correlate their usage with other related concepts they already know, such as basic mathematics, pattern relations and emotional similarities. Sing! Dance! — This vocal performance class takes the playful, contemporary side of the TV show Glee and combines it with a traditional choral class. Students learn the basics of music theory and translate them into a fun and hip vocal choir, singing songs of various musical genres. An emphasis on movement and theatrics is also provided by way of some light choreography. The program culminates in a fun performance for their peers and parents.

Grades 5-12 Rock Band Ensemble — Involves hands-on instruction with a focus on practicing and performing as a group; also includes active listening, music theory, music critique and instrumental technique. Students are provided with lessons, practice sessions, performance opportunities and (in some cases) instruments, along with the mentorship of Blue Bear’s professional artists in residence. The classes range from 9 to 18 weeks of instruction and culminate in a live performance. Beginning Group Guitar —A hands-on introduction to acoustic guitar that includes basic playing skills and learning music fundamentals. Through strums, picking, scales and chords, students learn how to play a few songs and get the skills they need to take it to the next level. The Intermediate Group Guitar program increases the number of strum patterns and chords, and adds arpeggios to give students a bigger arsenal to tackle more challenging songs. Keyboard Lab — Beginning instruction on piano, the foundational musical instrument; includes music theory as well as playing skills. Students are taught how to navigate a piano through scales and chords, building chops that will assist them in learning songs. They’ll also have an opportunity to perform publicly during a recital at the end of the course.

Blue Bear community programs take place at these and other Bay Area partner sites:

TEACHER Biographies Andrea Aragon brings her background in singing, songwriting and guitar to her Little Bears classes. With previous experience at Mother Goose Preschool, Music Together and Presidio Hill School, Andrea’s classes are a mix of music and movement, multi-lingual world songs and classic kiddie hits. Her favorite part about teaching music to young children is witnessing their excitement and love for music come alive.

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Robert Blake is a classically trained singer and actor. Growing up in North Carolina active with a variety of musical styles, he studied at Charlotte Children’s Theatre and at University of North Carolina School of the Arts. He received vocal training at University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. Blake was a professional singer, actor and vocal coach in Brazil from 2002-2008 and is currently developing his Zosia Bocz an hybrid of rock, soul and country music. o As a recording artist, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist, Zosia (pronounced Zaw-sha) Boczanowski has over 15 years experience in the music industry. She received a vocal scholarship to attend Berklee College of Music, where she completed a degree in Engineering & Production. Zosia is passionate about teaching voice, guitar and music technology, connecting people of all ages with the music they love.

Kai C h

Kent Brown was a professional actor, singer and guitarist in Atlanta and the Southeast for 11 years before moving to San Francisco. An instructor at Blue Bear since 2000, Kent teaches group lessons in all levels of acoustic guitar as well as private lessons in acoustic and electric guitar and bass. His cover band Suite Love Express plays regularly throughout the Bay Area.

52 call 415.673.3600

rC Pete

Summer camp instructor Cole Odin Berggren has drummed in bands for 20 years, and is also a trained glassblower and prominent local DJ. Currently, he is the primary songwriter and singer/multi-instrumentalist for his own pulsing, psychedelic, electronic rock band OWNERSHIP. Cole also teaches at Blue Bear’s Bayview YMCA Digital Music Program and is Blue Bear’s Community Programs Director.

Peter Case is a three-time Grammy-nominated, performing singer/songwriter, guitarist and producer who brings over 25 years of songwriting experience to his popular workshops. A founding member of the Nerves and the Plimsouls, Case’s songs are consistently discovered by each new generation, covered and performed by his fellow songwriters (Chris Smither, John Prine and Alejandro Escovedo, among others), and featured on film and television, most recently in True Blood and as e Friday Night Lights. Lea Centauri has been singing since age four and is the author of two vocal programs. She lived in Paris for several years, performing and teaching throughout Europe. She is a vocal coach for all genres — jazz, pop, blues, R&B, rock, show tunes, hip hop and rap — working with individuals and groups on technique and preparation for recording and performance. Lea is also a songwriter and teaches beginning piano. Kai Chu began his music education on piano, then graduated from Berklee College of Music studying guitar, voice and music business. Now a bassist, Kai has performed for large audiences at renowned venues like Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado, the LA Forum, and the Warfield and Bill Graham Civic Auditorium. Kai gigs regularly on the local scene and also plays double bass in the San Francisco Civic Symphony. With a music degree from Ithaca College, Randy Clark has been teaching guitar and amazing audiences with his critically acclaimed playing since the early 1990s. His band, Crowsong, has released three records. Randy has also composed for films and written for Guitar Player magazine. He specializes in slide guitar and roots music genres. Caroline Dahl plays boogie-woogie, blues and rock piano and is frequently seen wearing sequins. Caroline currently plays with the Cajun/American roots band Tom Rigney and Flambeau, and also plays solo piano regularly on Sundays at Mama’s Royal Cafe in Mill Valley. She has played solo at piano boogie woogie and blues festivals in France, Switzerland, Norway, Belgium, Denmark, Canada, and at numerous venues in the United States.

Matt Driscoll received a B.A. in Music Education in 2009 from Sonoma State University and his California K-12 teacher credential in music from SFSU in 2010. He’s currently pursuing an M.A. in Composition at Mills College. Matt covers a variety of guitar styles, including most forms of rock, blues and jazz. Matt also teaches ukulele, trumpet, mandolin, banjo, piano and accordion. Sharman Duran, vocalist and keyboardist, has been performing jazz standards, top 40, soul, rock, pop, and Latin jazz in bands since 1976. She also specializes in teaching music to pre-school children. She has performed throughout Europe and Asia, and gigs regularly in the Bay Area. Summer Camp Director and guitarist Nils Erickson graduated with honors from Berklee College of Music and has played and taught music in the Bay Area for over 20 years. Nils has been lead teacher in Blue Bear’s camps for over 10 years, and has performed in venues like LA’s Disney Hall, The House of Blues, The Brooklyn Bowl, The Knitting Factory, and Bimbo’s 365 Club among many others. He currently plays with the Michael Jackson tribute group Foreverland. Brian Gire has been teaching and playing music for over thirty years. Initially inspired by watching the late John Hartford on television, Brian has developed an eclectic approach that ranges from Bartok to hard rock to Doc Watson. He teaches both acoustic and electric guitar (in styles including jazz, blues, classical, rock, bluegrass and more), banjo, mandolin, piano and bass.

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Ben Goldstein was born and raised in Memphis, where he learned to play and sing blues, rock, soul, funk, gospel, boogie and folk music. In his studies at Middlebury College, he dove into jazz and compositional theory. He has played keys and sung with dozens of bands in Tennessee and Vermont, writes and records original music, Ben Go and also has ten years lds t of experience in vocal arrangement.

Colin Hayes is a Bay Area native who has been writing, playing and recording and producing music for over 15 years. In 2009, he graduated from San Francisco State University’s BECA program with a degree in Audio Production. He currently plays guitar with Dogcatcher (Live 105 Top 20 Bay Area Bands 2012 & 2013) and Girl Named T, in addition to his duties as Recording Division Director of Blue Bear’s Creating Music Program. Ryan Hickey has studied music theory, composition and performance, teaches piano and guitar, and is Blue Bear’s All Star Band director. He has performed in orchestras, symphonies and marching bands; has toured the U.S. with funk, reggae, bluegrass, jazz, world, hip hop and rock bands; and continues to have his work featured in international publications. His musical inspirations start with Ravi Shankar, Oscar Peterson, Jimmy Smith, The Grateful Dead, John Coltrane and Steely Dan. Rachel Hoiem has studied music for over 20 years, including several years on scholarship at Blue Bear. With a B.A. in Jazz Piano from SF State, she gigs regularly in her bands Light Fantastic, Bellavista, and Rachel and the Rats. Her Little Bears song repertoire includes everything from The Beatles to Beastie Boys, along with her own originals, keeping things fresh and fun for all. Raz Kennedy has worked as a vocalist, vocal coach and producer in the Bay Area since 1980. His performance credits include six years as a founding member of Bobby McFerrin’s Voicestra, as well as projects with June Watanabe Performance Ensemble, Rebeca Mauleon, Bob Ostertag, Bonnie Hayes, y Linda Tillery, George Coates Performance Works and Oberlin Dance Collective. Raz is currently on leave while he completes work on his PoRazOne Project. Ryan Hic ke

Summer camp songwriting teacher Susie Davis is a respected music educator, professional vocalist, keyboardist, songwriter, guitarist and accordionist. Since 1986, she has toured and recorded with top names in the music world: Van Morrison, Prince, Sheila E., Billy Idol, Melissa Etheridge, Sinead O’Connor, Pat Benatar and Mick Jagger. She has worked extensively as a solo artist in the Bay Area and Los Angeles and currently tours and records with Those Darn Accordions, Rhythmtown Jive, and the Rubinoos.

Steve Kirk has taught guitar, bass, music theory, composition and band workshops at Blue Bear since 2007. Outside of the Bear, he composes for TV, film and multi-media, including a recent project of music for the Star Wars MMO game, The Old Republic. He’s also a member of Orchestra Nostalgico, known for performing movie music by the likes of Nino Rota and Ennio Morricone. Devin Lane has taught guitar privately and in schools and summer camps since 2007. He has also taught bass, drums, piano, voice and recording techniques. With a B.A. from UC Santa Barbara, where he studied electronic music composition, music theory, piano and English literature, Devin has performed in local bands and completed a musical journey of Latin America with performances in Mexico, Colombia and Peru.

visit bluebearmusic.org 53

Teacher BIOGRAPHIES Sean Leahy r ba Bar

Berklee School of Music grad Sean Leahy has toured the States and Europe with Kofy Brown, Red Archibald, Marginal Prophets, Boomshanka, Four Year Bender, Guitarmageddon and London Street. An experienced guitar teacher and band workshop leader, his first influences include Hendrix, Duane Allman and Angus Young. Sean gigs regularly throughout the Bay Area and beyond.

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J.T. Locke has been playing guitar, writing and arranging songs for over twenty years, recording and performing across the country for over ten years, and teaching professionally since 2007. J.T. trained at PCC Music program in Portland and M.I.T in Los Angeles. He offers instruction in rock, jazz, classical, blues, metal, pop and other styles, as well as in songwriting. His current band is Deathtrap America.

Little Bears teacher Heather Normandale has been singing most of her life and plays guitar, mandolin and banjo. She has taught music in preschools and other toddler music programs, and has brought music into classrooms with the Wild Science classes of Tree Frog Treks. Her kids band, Dandelions, Tigers and Bears, plays regularly at the Ashkenaz Sunday Kids shows.

Summer camp songwriting teacher Ira Marlowe grew up listening to jazz and show tunes, begged for guitar lessons at eight, finally got them at thirteen and experienced a high school conversion from folkie to rocker. At nineteen, he started penning songs that sounded somewhere between Daltrey/Townsend and Lerner and Loew. His awards include the SF Weekly “Best of the Bay” song contest and a Napa Valley Music Festival award.

Pamela Parker is a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist schooled in classical, jazz, blues, classic rock, recording, songwriting, producing and performing. She holds two degrees in music, has started two music schools, works at Hyde Street Studios in San Francisco, and has been practicing music since the age of 7, including piano, violin, drums, bass, guitar, singing, songwriting and recording.

Shaun McGonegal is a seasoned drummer with over 30 years of experience in performance and studio work. Along with contributions to many albums, he is a GrooveZoo.com Groove Crew Member, actively consulting for the site. His formal training began at Ontario College of Percussion and continued with Pete Magadini, John Pickering, and jazz great Tony Williams. Shaun has mastered styles from rock, R&B, blues and funk, to Latin, jazz and hip hop.

Jim Peterson has played and taught saxophone and woodwinds for more than 25 years. He studied in his early days at Blue Bear, then at Berklee School of Music. Jim has played with Beaufunk, Mitch Woods, Steve Lucky, and President’s Breakfast, and is a founding member/composer for MoFone, Giant Trio, Mumbo Gumbo, and The New Squatoolas. He has performed at jazz festivals in Canada and Europe and at the Monterey Jazz and Blues Festivals.

Tennessee Mowrey is a multi-instrumentalist singer/ songwriter who has written for folk, rock, reggae, and punk bands, as well as for film and theater. Proficient in guitar, bass, drum kit, hand percussion, mandolin and ukulele, he has released multiple self-produced solo albums, as well as albums with his various bands, including Borneo and Electric Tiger Lily. Tennessee graduated from Wesleyan University with High Honors in Music in 2010.

Seminar instructor Ilya Portnov is an innovative harmonica player who transforms its rustic simplicity into a sophisticated, expressive sound capable of conveying the most challenging music. He is equally comfortable swinging a Brazilian choro, navigating a sinewy Balkan dance, or celebrating harmonica’s roots in the blues. Ilya completed an M.A. at the prestigious New England Conservatory, the only person playing diatonic harmonica to have ever done so.

Barbara Murphy helped start Blue Bear’s Little Bears Program in 2007. With her powerful voice, positive energy and diverse repertoire, Teacher Barb has touched many small hearts over the years. She plays guitar and piano and emphasizes voice, tone, movement, rhythm and basic musical concepts in her classes. Her album Train to Sleepytown has been a hit!

Janak Ramachandran is driven to inspire, connect and enlighten via his teaching philosophy of “motivating encouragement, concrete guidance, and playful musicality.” Once a student at Blue Bear, he is now one of a handful of teachers to receive Blue Bear’s Outstanding Faculty Award for his work in teaching voice/vocal style, guitar, bass, piano, theory/songwriting and stage performance.

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Mike Rao, a graduate of G.I.T. in Los Angeles, studied solo jazz guitar with Ted Green. He loves blues and classic rock and has fifteen years of teaching experience. Mike is well known for his systematic and comprehensive approach to building skills in his group classes. He also leads youth bands and guitar classes in Blue Bear’s offsite programs.

Summer camp instructor Bob Tatum, a graduate of Percussion Institute of Technology in L.A., has been teaching drums and performing in the Bay Area since 1999. In addition to being the house drummer for the Blue Lamp in San Francisco, Bob has played with bands and artists such as Jimmy Two Times, Noelle Hampton, Storm Large, Bonnie Hayes and Heather Combs.

Stella Roshi-Moles has been playing music since before she can remember. She grew up in Montana, studying classical violin and doing lots of fiddling, then received a B.M. in Violin Performance from Portland State University. Stella is a multi-instrumentalist whose experimental folk music album Wisdom Teeth was just released on Post-Consumer Records under the moniker Stella Peach.

Emily Thebaut studied at Interlochen Arts Academy, Oberlin Conservatory of Music (B.M.), and at SF Conservatory of Music where she received her Master of Music degree. During her classical voice and opera studies, Emily performed in Italy and Austria. With experience in musical theater, jazz and pop music, vocal pedagogy is an area of particular interest to Emily, who enjoys teaching students of all ages and levels.

Summer camp instructor Erik Schramm is a Bay Area guitarist who for the last several years has toured the U.S. with the band Super Diamond. He performs often in San Francisco with artists Brandi Shearer, Clay Bell, Matt Verba and Strip Club. He also does sessions for songwriters, commercials and independent films. His playing is a mix of pop, blues, funk, rock and a taste of country for good measure.

With an early background in trumpet, piano and voice in concert bands, marching bands, community symphony orchestras and barbershop quartets, John Turner eventually settled on the keys, touring with national recording groups and working as a session player. He has also accompanied cabaret acts and played for top 40 and show bands, upscale restaurants, five-star hotels, corporate events and private parties.

Mark Schuh has toured the country as guitarist, bassist, keyboardist and singer in numerous projects, and can often be found singing and playing solo guitar at SF’s Durty Nelly’s, where he’s been a resident musician for the last ten years. He studied music with the infamous Joan Wildman at UW-Madison and at Blue Bear with jazz guru Jeff Massanari. Mark is currently lead guitarist for SF’s New Orleans-inspired Fatcat.

Amanda VanderMeer graduated with high honors from Portland Community College’s professional music program and has been playing and writing music for 25 years, touring the globe and releasing two studio albums. Since 2006, she has taught a wide range of ages in drums, piano, vocals, music theory and songwriting. She plays drums in her current band, Deathtrap America.

Girls Rock!! camp teacher Karen Segal has been teaching bands in the Bay Area since 2000 and rocking out since she was 11. She’s performed at the Hard Rock Cafe, Bottom of the Hill, Yoshi’s SF, Savanna Jazz, Rassela’s and Cafe Du Nord. Karen teaches band at SF’s Brandeis Hillel Day School, and has a diploma from the Musicians Institute in L.A., a Master’s of Education from UCLA, and a California State Teaching Certificate.

Brandy Washington is a self-taught singer, songwriter, keyboardist, rapper, drummer and producer who writes and performs under the moniker, BEDAZAE. Her songs and instrumentals have been used for various underground projects. Brandy is the Media Center Coordinator and co-teacher for the Blue Bear Digital Audio Production program at the Bayview YMCA.

Andrew Skewes-Cox, a former Blue Bear student, has a music degree from UC Santa Cruz. Known for creating drums out of practically anything and usually carting around a giant bag of tiny guitars for his Little Bears classes, he is the embodiment of a hard-working musician. Andrew also teaches at DayOne Center, Lone Mountain Children’s Center and Calvary Presbyterian preschool, volunteers for Bread & Roses, and plays drums for Rin Tin Tiger.

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Summer camp songwriting teacher Bill “Sputnick” Spooner is a guitarist, singer/songwriter and the founder of The Tubes, a band known for its legendary theatrical rock concerts. Bill has also released three solo albums, First Chud, Mall to Mars and Demolicious.

Sara Jean Yaste, aka Jean Jeanie, is a performer, singer, multi-instrumentalist and composer who plays with the punkadelic group Future Twin and experimental noise duo Dark Materials. She cares passionately about enabling all people to find their voice, collectively and individually, and teaches in Blue Bear’s offsite programs.

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GIFTS Grants & Scholarships SCHOLARSHIP DONORS SCHOLARSHIP SUPERSPONSORS Anonymous ARIA Foundation Maria Cardamone SCHOLARSHIP SPONSORS Judith Hill-Weld Susan and Gregg Lustig Susan McGarry Elaine and Scott Munday in honor of Dorian Amy Nicholson Teresa Odom Bonnie Raitt STEVE STRAUSS FOUNDERS FUND Joan Barnes Maria Cardamone Stephanie and John Dains Ian J. Kalin Richard Strauss KEITH ALLEN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND Ned and Robin Selfe Patricia and Thomas Allen Charles Felsenthal BILL GRAHAM MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Bill Graham Supporting Foundation of the Jewish Community Endowment Fund The Walther Foundation

Matching GRANTS Anonymous (2) Business Wire Dodge & Cox Matching Fund GE Foundation Google Matching Grants Levi Strauss Foundation Matching Grants Salesforce.com Foundation 56 call 415.673.3600

Blue Bear thanks the many individuals and organizations providing contributions received between October 1, 2013 and September 30, 2014. Our educational work could not continue without your support. GENERAL FUND DONORS SUPERHERO ($50,000+) Chauncey and Marion D. McCormick Family Foundation HEROES ($10,000+) Anonymous (2) Maria Cardamone Walter & Elise Haas Fund The Walther Foundation SUPERBENEFACTORS ($5,000-9,999) John Brockway Huntington Foundation The McKenzie Foundation of San Francisco BENEFACTORS ($2,500-$4,999) Mark Brueckman Calibre One, Inc John Lee, Advanced Construction Mr. Christopher Lord and Ms. Coltrane C. Lord Brett May SUPERSPONSORS ($1,000-$2,499) Jill Suttie and Don Arbitlit Holland Bender Block Communications, Inc. Bob Brown Tim and Roo Duncan Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Addario Music Foundation Emergent Transportation Concepts Dominic Haigh Johnson Ohana Charitable Foundation The Arch and Stella Rowan Foundation Danielle Rubin Ned and Robin Selfe Jeff Shaw Tony and Marcie Stais Joe Strulowitz Union Bank Foundation Jonathan Weiner Paul Winston visit bluebearmusic.org 57

THANK YOU GIFTS

SPONSORS ($500-$999) David Neil Black California Accounting Center CPAs Mike and Pat Evans Bill Haerle Mike Kappus — The Rosebud Agency George Lucas Family Foundation Climb Real Estate Group Byron Mellberg O’Dette Mortgage Group Nils Reuter in honor of Ryan Hickey Stephen N. Rosenfield Steve Savage and Tamara Bock Danielle Stanislaus and Bradley Herman DONORS ($250-$499) Anonymous in honor of Max Swerin Robert and Marida Berlin Bimbo’s 365 Club Robert Brown and Su-Moon Paik Shirley Sun Forbes Graham Green Mike and Kelly Halper Dan Kane Michael Keys Zach Lee Julie and Jonathan Meyer Dick Millet Lisa Tarigo Poalillo Josina Reddy Gloria and Welton Rollerson Tamyra Thomas Pauline Ayako Uyeda

58 call 415.673.3600

SUPPORTERS ($100-$249)

“I’m sticking with Blue Bear, you do a wonderful job.” — Dick Millet

“We look forward to many more years at Blue Bear.” — Uma & George Lerner

“Thanks for the great program, I couldn’t have done this on my own!” — Forbes Husted

Anonymous in honor of Johnny Nitro Adrienne in honor of Carol Snow Kit Anderton Gina N. Ballenger Aleck Beach William E. Berry Ethan Bodle Jeffrey Briss Charles and Nancy Burbach Alexander Calhoun in memory of Richard Smith Kira Casey and Victoria Stein Lin Chase John Close Genevieve Conaty Joycelin Craig Crosby & Kaneda Gerry Ehrmann Elizabeth Finlayson & Jim Nadel Anne and Mason Flemming Michael Gallagher Mark Gunther and Anne M. Krantz Brenda Hillman in honor of Carol Snow Adrienne Hirt and Jeff Rodman Robert S. Hodas David and Debra Hoiem Matt Holmes Mary Holzer Henry Hooker and Janine Roeth Lisa Hubbert Scott Jensen William Knight Daniel Kunstler Monica Loncola Gail J. and Robert B. Loveman Tim Lynch The Mahon Family Pat and Lori Martinez Gary and Ann Merkerson MK Productions, Inc. Andrew Moore Donald Moore Jami Nadzam Aarti Natesan Mariana Parreiras Mike Rao Yvette Rosedale Bev and Ron Sherrill The Singer’s Workshop Richard Sloan Sweetwater Music Hall Tim Whalen Mark Williams Dr. Richard Wolitz Carol Wong Melvin Wong, Blackbird Music visit bluebearmusic.org 59

ASSOCIATES ($60-$99)

GIFTS

Carol Caspe-Nayman Lisa and Matt Chanoff Ian and Joanie Crombie Donna Casey Gerber Ruth Kirschner Jennifer Rollerson Yelton Carol Snow & David Matchett

FRIENDS ($1-$59)

Anonymous Blue Bear Hank Bannister In honor of Malcolm Berry on Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Elvin Bishop Mary Bourke Jennifer Burke G. and Shirley L. Costanzo Steve and Juel Craig Debbie Cucalon Sharman Duran Aguilera David and Katherine Evans E.H. and Romana L. Gallarate Jennifer Gee Sam Gharabally Kevin Gill Tim Hughes Jerry Jeter Michael Juster Michael Kelleher The Chang Knezevich Family The Koenig Family Marshall Lamm David Lehr Reshma Lensing in honor of Lyla Hielscher Donald M. Maus Walter McMath David G. and Sheree L. Meyer Holly Moore Jim Peterson Keilani Pilates Doug Raymond Karen L. Riefer Frederica Robertson Jill Robinson Dianne Younger Rosse Michael Schmidt Kit-Shui The Simons Family Kristen Steck Hisae and Yoshimichi Takahashi Queenie Taylor Judith and Bruce Todd Victor Valentine Erin Vivion and Family Monica Wan Chavarria Marcus Yelton Lisa Zahner Michael Zwerin 60 call 415.673.3600

TRUSTEES and Staff BOARD OF TRUSTEES Bonnie Hayes Rose Kirkland Jim Peterson Vicki Randle Renee Richardson Richard Strauss Paul Winston

Maria Cardamone Chair

Steve Savage President

Jay R. Shah, CPA Vice Chair

Brett May Treasurer

PROGRAM & ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Steve Savage

Interim Executive Director

Dennis Criteser Program Director

Cole Odin Berggren

Community Programs Director

Tanya Wheeler

Little Bears Director

Ryan Hickey

Carol Snow

Financial Director

Stella Roshi-Moles

Accounts and Office Manager

Tracy Fischer

Marketing and PR Manager

Alycia Moore

All Star Band Director

Development Associate

Nils Erickson

Richelle Cullen

Colin Hayes

Stephanie Kennedy

Summer Camp Director Recording Division Director

Front Desk Front Desk

visit bluebearmusic.org 61

General

INFORMATION OFFICE HOURS

Monday to Thursday: 1-8 pm Saturday: 10:30 am-3:30 pm Friday & Sunday: closed

ADDRESS

Blue Bear School of Music Fort Mason Center 2 Marina Blvd. Bldg. D San Francisco, CA 94123

CONTACT INFO

Phone – 415.673.3600 Email – info@bluebearmusic.org Private lesson changes are handled by phone only — be sure to leave a message.

ENROLL ONLINE

Go to bluebearmusic.org and click on “Sign Up” to get started today!

BIKE RACKS

Outdoor bike racks are located throughout Fort Mason. There are no indoor racks.

PARKING AT FORT MASON

Funds generated from parking in the paid lot are allocated for the preservation and restoration of Fort Mason Center, a National Historic Landmark. Vehicles can enter the lot at any time, however overnight parking is not permitted. Sometimes spots are available just outside the Fort Mason gate, next to where the boats are moored, and that parking is free.

Weekday Rates Time

Rate

Weekend Rates Time

Rate

0-1 hour $2.00

0-1 hours

$2.00

1-2 hours $4.00

1-2 hours

$5.00

2-3 hours $6.00

2-3 hours

$7.00

3-4 hours $8.00

3-4 hours $10.00

$10.00 > 4 hours

> 4 hours

$12.00

SLIDING SCALE TUITION AVAILABLE: Income-based sliding scale tuition is available for all Blue Bear instruction and summer camps, with potential savings of 20% to 30% or more. Please visit bluebearmusic.org/sliding to see whether you qualify! Please Note: Blue Bear School of Music does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, age, political affiliation, disability, gender, sexual orientation or religious belief in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship programs, and other school administered programs or in affording students the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

62 call 415.673.3600

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Fort Mason Center

FORT MASON CENTER

Fort Mason Center is located in the Marina District of San Francisco. The entrance to Fort Mason is at the intersection of Marina Blvd. and Buchanan Street.

From the East Bay

Bay Bridge to Fremont Street Exit; on Fremont (100 yards north) take first right on Howard; left on Embarcadero and go 2 miles; left on Bay, about 2 miles. Right on Buchanan. Cross Marina Blvd. and make a sharp right into Fort Mason Center.

From the North Bay

Golden Gate Bridge (US 101) to Marina Exit; go 1.5 miles. Turn left at Buchanan & turn right into Fort Mason Center.

Golden Gate Bridge

From the South Bay

US 101 North to 9th St. Exit; 9th across Market & left on Hayes; right on Franklin; about 2 miles. Turn left on Bay St, right on Buchanan. Cross Marina Blvd. and make a sharp right into Fort Mason Center.

Public Transportation

Bay Area-wide: www.511.org and call 817-1717 or 511 from any area code East Bay BART: www.bart.gov and (510) 465-2278 North Bay Golden Gate Transit: www.goldengate.org and (415) 455-2000 Peninsula/South Bay CalTrain: www.caltrain.com and (800) 660-4287 San Francisco MUNI: www.sfmuni.com and (415) 673-6864 visit bluebearmusic.org 63

The Chapel 777 Valencia St., SF

Sunday, December 14 5:30 – 9 pm

CELEBRATE the Holidays with Blue Bear Performances by

Blue Bear Youth All Star Bands

• All ages welcome • Free appetizers • Drink specials available

Details at bluebearmusic.org/holiday-party

MAVIS STAPLES

tions c a tr is D e h T & e Matt Jaff

Saturday17 Januaryand: TH_ r Youth B

+ Blue Bea

Mavis Staples has been named one of the 100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll by VH1 and one of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time by Rolling Stone. Grown from gospel roots, her powerful grit-and-honey vocals and infectious enthusiasm will make this an unforgettable evening. Here’s your chance to support Blue Bear and see a soul icon live in an intimate venue!

Sweetwater Music Hall 19 Corte Madera Ave., Mill Valley

Tickets are extremely limited —

get yours at bluebearmusic.org/mavis

VIP (includes buffet dinner): $150 General Admission: $75 ($60 for Blue Bear Members) All tickets standing room only. VIP doors: 6 pm • GA doors: 7:30 pm Show: 8 pm

visit bluebearmusic.org/mavis 65

Fort Mason Center 2 Marina Blvd. Bldg. D San Francisco, CA 94123

IT’S TIME TO PLAY!

• Private Lessons • Band Workshops • Instrumental & Voice Classes • Theory Classes • Short Seminars • Songwriting & Recording • Summer Camps • Community Programs • Something for all ages • Sliding scale tuition available

bluebearmusic.org 415.673.3600

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

WINTER QUARTER 2015 • Adults — 11 weeks January 20 – April 6 • Little Bears — 12 weeks January 12 – April 4 • Enroll online now!

PAID

SAN FRANCISCO, CA PERMIT NO. 10148

IN HOME BY DEC. 1