Preparatory Chorus

Music Lesson and Classes

The Preparatory Chorus is open to singers ages 6 – 8, who have little or no former singing experience, through placement audition. Singers will learn the fundamentals of healthy vocal production, develop underlying skills necessary for part independence in ensemble singing, build confidence, and explore their voices within developmentally-appropriate vocal activities and repertoire. Students perform in two concerts per year. Students must have text-reading ability.

Dr. Sarah Houghton holds an MA from New York University, a DMA in Music Education from Boston University, and has most recently worked as Director of Children’s Choruses at the prestigious New England Conservatory, in Boston. She is looking forward to building a vibrant choral program at the Gifted Music School.

Attend the first class risk-free!


Course Details Fall Semester
Instructor(s)	Dr. Sarah Houghton
Meets	Fridays at 5:00 p.m.
Duration	30 minutes
Length	15 weeks
Starts	August 23, 2024
Ends	December 13, 2024
Age Range	6 to 9
Music Fee	$20/semester
Location	On Campus (In-Person)


Course Details Spring Semester
Instructor(s)	Dr. Sarah Houghton
Meets	Fridays at 5:00 p.m.
Duration	30 minutes
Length	15 weeks
Starts	January 24, 2025
Ends	May 16, 2025
Age Range	6 to 9
Music Fee	$20/semester
$140/semester	$165/semester

Preparatory Chorus Music at Gifted Music School

Placement Audition

All new vocal students (or new to an ensemble) should participate in a placement audition. This will provide information as to whether the child should be in an ensemble or in voice lessons, or both. Come prepared with a short song (of your choice) that you feel comfortable singing. Interested students will participate in a 10-minute placement lesson with Dr. Houghton. Students should bring a song of choice to sing a cappella (without an accompanist); it does not have to be memorized. If you are unsure whether your child should be placed in the Children’s Chorus, Preparatory Chorus, or private voice lessons, Dr. Houghton will be able to provide individualized feedback and recommendations at the placement audition. More information on the placement audition is forthcoming.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I sign up for lessons and classes?

Signing up for lessons and classes is easy! Go to our new student registration page and fill out the form. You can choose from a variety of programs based on your interests and skill level. We will be in touch with you shortly after the form is completed. If you’re not sure where to start, feel free to contact us, and we’ll guide you in selecting the right program for you or your child.

What are the major programs at the school?

We offer a range of programs designed to meet the needs of students at every level of their musical journey:

Conservatory: For serious students who gain admission through audition. Once admitted, students receive a full scholarship for all their classes.
Preparatory: High-level tuition-based lessons and classes open to students of all ages from the general community. Scholarships are available to help support aspiring musicians.
GRIT Program: Our comprehensive outreach program in Title I schools, bringing high-quality music education to underserved communities.
Young Composers Academy (YCA): Tuition-based Conservatory classes and opportunities that are available to the general public.
Suzuki Program: A part of the Preparatory Program, focused on string students using the renowned Suzuki method.

Who are the faculty and teachers?

Our school is home to an extraordinary team of faculty members and teachers, all of whom are accomplished musicians and dedicated educators. Our faculty bring a wealth of professional experience and expertise to their teaching, ensuring that students receive top-tier musical instruction. You can learn more about each instructor by visiting our faculty page on the website, where you’ll find bios and details about their areas of specialization.

How do I apply to the Conservatory?

To apply to our Conservatory program, students must go through an audition process. This ensures that we select students who are committed to excelling in their musical studies. Information about audition dates and requirements can be found on our Conservatory Admissions page. If you have questions or need assistance during the application process, our admissions team is here to help.

How can I support the school?

Your support is vital to the success of our programs and the growth of our students. To make a donation or learn more about the different ways you can contribute, please visit the donate page on our website. Donations go toward scholarships, outreach programs, and other initiatives that make high-quality music education accessible to all.

What Students & Parents Have to Say

I've taken two of my kids here for a Suzuki Toddler Mommy & Me Music class. They do an excellent job! Very talented and knowledgeable instructors, even for the toddler class! It was very beneficial for the kids.

My daughter has loved being apart of GMS. She's had amazing experiences because of it and has grown so much as a musician. We're so grateful she had this opportunity before college.

I have three daughters that have been in the Gifted Music School, two on flute and one with clarinet. The Gifted Music School has helped them each excel as musicians!

We feel lucky to have found GMS two years ago. At first, our kids were just in the children's choir, but we later added voice, violin, and piano lessons. All the teachers are top notch!