Preparatory Program

Houston’s comprehensive preparatory program for young violinists, violists, cellists, bassists, and pianists.

Apply

What We Offer

Opus 1 Prep offers a distinctive approach to pre-college music education. Breaking the traditional conservatory-style academy model, the program is available to violinists, violists, cellists, bassists, and pianists ages 8 - 18 who study with any private teacher.

At its core, Opus 1 Prep provides a rich array of college-curricular opportunities to support and augment private instruction. Prep students participate in studio classes, recitals, music theory, guest artist workshops, and a range of electives.

Opus 1 Prep students gather on Saturdays at Chapelwood United Methodist Church from 12:00pm - 3:00pm. Participation in Opus 1 Prep is fully compatible with Opus 1 Chamber Music, and students may enroll in either program or both, with no scheduling conflicts between them.

Apply

Opus 1 Preparatory Program

  • Studio Class & Recitals

    At Opus 1 Prep, students build a supportive community of fellow young musicians while developing confidence as performers. Opus 1 cultivates this growth through weekly studio classes, monthly recitals, and inspiring interactions with studio class instructors and guest teachers.

    Learn More

  • Music Theory & Ear Training

    Opus 1 Theory is designed to support and deepen students’ music making. Our courses use a hands-on approach so students understand the concepts they learn through practice, no different than learning their instrument.

    Learn More

  • Electives

    Opus 1 Prep students have access to elective classes, offered to widen their musical experience and knowledge. Offerings will rotate on a semesterly basis, with multiple that meet simultaneously to address a variety of student interests.

    Learn More

  • Guest Workshops

    Students of Opus 1 Prep have the invaluable opportunity to work with some of the world’s most renowned and accomplished musicians and teachers in Houston and throughout the country. Click below to view our current list of faculty and guests.

    Learn More

  • Tuition & Financial Aid

    Opus 1 is committed to making high quality music education accessible to any individual with the desire to learn. View our tuition and financial aid policy here.

    Learn More

  • Schedule

    Opus 1 Prep meets from 12:00pm to 3:00pm on Saturdays at Chapelwood United Methodist Church. Students often supplement their days with chamber music.

    Learn More

FAQ’s

  • Yes. Beginning this year, current Opus 1 students will need to submit new audition materials to join Prep and/or Chamber Music in the fall.

  • We do not offer a sibling discount for families with multiple students. You may, however, request financial aid as part of your application.

  • Students may opt out of any aspect of Opus 1 Prep (although we highly suggest you don’t!), but there is no tuition discount for doing so. 

  • Studio Class Instructors will collect performance requests to perform in Studio Class and/or Prep Recitals on a rolling basis. Programs will then be settled 2-3 weeks in advance, accounting for students’ preparation and equitable opportunity. 

  • Absolutely! Students are encouraged to request these opportunities as frequently as they and their private teacher would like. However, when considering performance requests, priority may be given to well-prepared students who have not yet had the opportunity. 

  • You must commit to Opus 1 Prep on a full-year basis, but payment installment plans are available for all families. Note: Opus 1 Chamber Music (as opposed to Opus 1 Prep) offers the ability to enroll on a per-trimester basis. 

  • Because of the depth of information offered in electives, you must commit to attending a single elective every week for an entire semester. It is possible, however, that we’ll offer the same or similar elective both semesters of the year depending on student feedback. There’s a good chance you’ll have the opportunity to take both electives that interest you. 

  • No. Students will be able to participate in both without losing opportunities offered by either.

  • To qualify for the Chamber Music & Preparatory Tuition Bundle, students must commit to both Chamber Music and Prep for the full year.

  • You will rank your elective preferences upon enrollment, and we will do our best to ensure that your top choices are honored based on the demand and availability of each elective. Class sizes and availability will vary for each elective topic/teacher.

More Questions?

If you’re interested in Opus 1 Preparatory Program or Opus 1 Chamber Music and still have questions, we encourage you to reach out. Dr. Ishikawa and Dr. Lammers look forward to hearing from you!