Music Ensembles through Community Learning Center
Explore the exciting world of Music Ensembles at the Community Learning Center, where you'll find diverse classes designed to offer students a unique musical experience.
From the vibrant rhythms of African Drumming to the soulful harmonies of Jazz Big Band, the dynamic sounds of the San Juan College Orchestra, and the collective harmony of the Concert Band, there's a perfect ensemble for every musician seeking to elevate their skills and passion for music. Join us on this transformative journey where you'll refine your musical talents and forge lifelong friendships with fellow musicians who share your love for the art.
Students in music ensembles can register in three different ways: regular credit enrollment (including dual credit students), Encore enrollment, and non-credit enrollment. For regular credit enrollment (including dual credit enrollment), visit Registration and Records at San Juan College. The options through the Community Learning Center (CLC) below are designed for community members who do not require college credit.
Music Ensembles
This fun, energetic and collaborative group (MUSC 2996) plays West African and Cuban dance music and performs hand drumming in a drum circle approach. Essential course content includes musical timing, ensemble unison rhythms, and individual polyrhythmic rhythms. This collaborative ensemble uses djembes and dununs to create West African and world drumming and dance music. Immerse yourself in African culture through hands-on engagement with its various drumming traditions. This is a spirited ensemble of universality and excellence. Along with a focus on the technique of how to play the djembe and various rhythms, students will learn authentic background information of when and why these rhythms were originally played. The ability to accurately synchronize rhythmic beats together with others is absolutely essential. Wednesday’s class will address different levels, and this will be further discussed on the first day of class, as well as performance plans.
DR. TEUN FETZ serves as this ensemble’s lead djembefola drummer. His vast drumming experience spans many musical styles, and his Doctorate of Musical Arts is in Percussion Performance.
1/17-5/8, MON, 4-5:15 pm & WED, 4-5:55 pm, Henderson Fine Arts Center Room 9210
(no class 2/19, 3/11 & 3/13)
This is a 2-credit class; the costs are as follows:
$13 residents 65 and older (first 10 credit hours)
$115 residents under 65
Encore registration: 2024SP MUSI 104 E22
Non-credit registration: CDRMU 023 B1, $118
From the 1930s to today’s modern jazz, study and make music with this performance ensemble (MUSC 2130). Enrollment is open to all musicians who are able to read music and collaborate. Jazz Big Band generally offers community based performing opportunities.
CHRISTOPHER ARGOTSINGER holds a Bachelors of Music Education from the University of Northern Colorado and an M.A. in Band Conducting from the American Band College of Sam Houston State University.
1/16-5/7, TUE, 7-9 pm, Henderson Fine Arts Center Room 9210
(no class 3/12)
Encore registration: 2024SP MUSI 104 E12*
Non-credit registration: CDRMU 005 B1*
The San Juan College Orchestra (MUSC 2120) provides students and community members the opportunity to prepare orchestral music in an educational environment and to perform regularly-scheduled concerts each semester. Enrollment is open to all players with a minimum of high school playing ability, regardless of age. If you have questions, call Teun Fetz at 505-566-3386.
DR. TEUN FETZ is the Director of Instrumental Music at San Juan College, and he directs numerous ensembles.
1/22-5/6 MON, 6:30-9 pm, Henderson Fine Arts Center Room 9210
(no class 2/19 & 3/11)
Encore registration: 2024SP MUSI 104 E24*
Non-credit registration: CDRMU 003 B1*
Both college and community musicians are invited to play. From classical to jazz, from opera overtures to blazing marches, this band does it all! Make fine music with the Four Corner’s oldest continuous community concert band (MUSC 2120). Make friends with other musicians who love what they do. The Concert Band is featured in performances through the year, open to the public. Enrollment is open to all players with a minimum of high school playing ability, regardless of age. If you have questions, call Teun Fetz at 505-566-3386.
DR. TEUN FETZ has taught at San Juan College since 2015, and he is an accomplished musician with numerous ensembles and conducting roles.
1/18-5/2, THU, 6:30-9 pm, Henderson Fine Arts Center Room 9210
(no class 3/14)
Encore registration: 2024FA MUSI 104 E11*
Non-credit registration: CDRMU 004 B1*
