Learn With Us
Music education for every age and stage, taught by the musicians you hear on stage.
Find Your Place in the Music
The Community Music School is where Northern Michigan comes to learn, play, and grow in music. We offer private lessons, ensembles, and classes for every age and ability, taught year-round by the musicians of the Traverse City Philharmonic.
Prefer to browse it all at once? Read the Fall 2026 Course Catalogue →
Lessons, Ensembles & Classes
Parent and Baby Music Class
A joyful first taste of music for babies and toddlers, with a grown-up taking part right beside them.
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Suzuki School
Nurturing string education rooted in the Suzuki method, from a child's first notes to ensemble playing, taught by TC Phil musicians.
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Private Lessons
One-on-one instruction across strings, winds, brass, piano, and voice, matched to your goals, age, and schedule.
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Civic Orchestras
A rich orchestral experience for community string players of all ages and skill levels since 2004. Directed by Lynne Tobin and Michael McLean.
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Civic Chamber Music
Coached small-group playing focused on chamber technique and repertoire. Directed by Gary Gatzke, Jr.
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Encore Symphonic Winds
A semi-professional concert band for experienced adult musicians, led by Dr. Timothy Topolewski.
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Adult Band – Act 2 & 3
A welcoming concert band for adults. Act 2 is for true beginners, and Act 3 is for players with about a year of experience.
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Guitar Club
A relaxed, social way for young players to learn guitar together.
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Adult Group Piano
A welcoming class for adults who are beginning, or returning to, the keyboard.
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Music Appreciation
Guided classes exploring the great works and the composers behind them, so you can listen deeper and love the music more.
Learn More →Community & Outreach
Masterworks in Miniature
In collaboration with the Traverse Area District Library, blending storytelling, movement, and live music in venues across the region.
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TC Phil Tots @ TADL
Free family concerts featuring small ensembles of professional TC Phil musicians, hosted at the library.
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TC Phil in the Schools
Day-long instrument workshops in woodwind, brass, string, and percussion families for local students.
Learn More →TC Phil Education Programs are made possible in part by grants from the Edmund F. and Virginia B. Ball Foundation, Eagles for Children, the Biederman Family Foundation, and others.