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Learn Together. Jam Together. Perform Together.
Group music lessons give musicians, young and old, the opportunity to play with others, develop listening skills, and build real musical communication—skills that only grow when you make music as a group.
These sessions are a great complement to private lessons, giving students a chance to apply what they’re learning in a collaborative, band-style setting.
Group Sessions typically run as a 9-week series, culminating in a live, on-stage performance for friends and family, complete with professional sound and lighting.
🎶 Sign up online and join the band.
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Pop & Rock Academy with Brody Valentino
Play loud. Play together.
Want to know what it’s really like to be in a band? In this 9-week group class, you’ll team up with other musicians, choose songs you’re excited about, and learn to play together. Work on music by artists like Taylor Swift, Chappell Roan, or even classic bands like AC/DC—with help picking songs that fit your skills.
- Wednesdays Apr 15 - Jun 3, 6:45-7:45p
(performance date: Wed, June 10 at The Hopmonk in Novato) - Cost: $549 for 9 sessions (8 weekly lessons + 1 performance night)
- Eligible instruments: Bass, drums, guitar, vocals, piano, horns, violin and cello
- Requirements: Min. 1 year playing and/or singing experience, ages 12-15 years old, must bring your own instrument (except for drums/keyboards/amps)
- Min/Max group size*: 4-8 players
- Location: Valentino Studios (17 Joseph Court, San Rafael near The Magic Flute)
Adult Pop & Rock Band with Brody Valentino
Join a Band. Play the Music You Love.
Ever wanted to play in a band—or miss playing with others? This 9-week group class is for adult musicians who want to jam, collaborate, and rediscover the energy of playing together. Choose songs as a group, rehearse with guidance, and enjoy making music in a relaxed, no-pressure, equipped studio setting. No auditions. No pressure. Just friends, music, and the fun of playing in a band. 🎸🥁🎤
- Wednesdays Apr 15 - Jun 3, 7:45-8:45p
(performance date: Wed, June 10 at The Hopmonk in Novato) - Cost: $549 for 9 sessions (8 weekly lessons + 1 performance night)
- Eligible instruments: Bass, drums, guitar, vocals, piano, horns, violin and cello
- Requirements: Min. 2 years playing and/or singing experience, adults 20 years+, must bring your own instrument (except for drums/keyboards/amps)
- Prerequisites:
- Guitarists–must be able to move easily between open and bar chords
- Drummers–must be able to play steadily at fast and slow tempo, fill comfortably and play rock and blues grooves
- Bass players–must be able to play various grooves easily; lock in with the drummer
- Singers–must be able to sing in tune and in time
- Keyboard players–must be able to form major and minor triads without notation
- No previous band experience required
- By joining the Pop & Rock Band you’re making a commitment to attend almost all rehearsals and to work on your songs between rehearsals. If you know ahead of time that you would have to miss more than one rehearsal, or the live performance, you should not enroll.
- Min/Max group size*: 4-8 players
- Location: Valentino Studios (17 Joseph Court, San Rafael near The Magic Flute)
Happening Now
Tuesday Wind Ensemble with Katie Fritts
Playing in an ensemble enhances musical skills, fosters support and patience, reinforces techniques, exposes you to diverse genres, and boosts self-esteem, making it a rewarding and enjoyable experience beyond private lessons.
This class aims to develop strong sight-reading habits, foster positive group behavior when encountering new material, and teach students to listen and balance their playing within the group. Focus will be on a few carefully chosen songs that offer variety and challenge, such as Mission Impossible, Blue Monk, Pachelbel's Canon, Afro Blue, Soul Bossa Nova, Tubular Bells medley, Sandstorm, Rock With Bach, or selections from Cumbia, Reggaeton, or Middle Eastern music.
- Tuesdays, Mar 3 - May 6, 7:15 - 8:15p
(performance date: Wed, May 6 at The Hopmonk in Novato) - Cost: $378 for 9 sessions (8 weekly lessons + 1 performance night)
- All wind instruments are eligible: Trombone, saxophone, clarinet, bass clarinet, trumpet, flute, baritone horn, tuba, oboe and bassoon
- Requirements: Min. 1 year playing experience, ages 10-15 years old, must bring your own instrument
- Min/Max group size*: 6-15 players
- Location: The Magic Flute
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Please note:
Chairs, music stands, amps and other equipment will be provided.
*If the minimum group size is not met within 48 hours of the first lesson, the group will be cancelled and 100% of payment made will be refunded.
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Kids Benefit in So Many Ways
Motivation & Excitement: Kids stay more engaged when they’re part of a group, inspired by the energy of making music together.
Teamwork & Communication: Students learn how to listen, blend, and support one another, developing essential collaboration skills.
Confidence Building: Performing with others helps kids feel more comfortable taking risks and builds stage presence.
Real Band Experience: Instead of just practicing alone, students enjoy the thrill of creating a bigger sound as part of a group.
Life Skills: Group lessons teach patience, problem-solving, and leadership—skills that go beyond music.
Friendships & Community: Being in a band creates bonds and shared goals, giving kids a sense of belonging.
Essentials for Success
Practice Daily: Get comfortable and proficient with your part(s).
Choose a Song to Play and Sing: Everyone gets to choose a song, choose something that you want to play and sing.
Show Up Ready to Play: Treat each lesson as a band rehearsal, be ready to contribute!
Be First to Know about Future Sessions, Get on the Sign Up List
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"Everyone here is so friendly and knowledgeable! My daughter really enjoys her lessons with Katie. A great local resource."
— Marika P. Google customer review