THE BRASSHOPPERS
A band for rambunctious young brass musicians, and grasshoppers…
Magic happens when we listen and play with the intention to contribute meaningfully to the music being made.
The Brasshoppers is not your average student brass band. It’s a whole mind-body experience wherein students are not given any sheet music to play, but are rather encouraged and guided as they learn how to create music together through carefull listening, improvisation, and the intention to contribute meaningfully to the music that is being made.
Throughout each session, students are given prompts, instructions, and challenges that promise to completely change the way they view the art and craft of music. In such a way, we’re able to unlock their creativity, expressiveness and mindfulness as they learn work in a team environment to create great music in real time.
This class is recommended mostly for younger students, though there is intentionally no age limit. Students who have more experience will still find this class highly valuable, and will also be challenged to help the younger students to rise higher in musicality and maturity.
PROGRAM INFORMATION
PROGRAM LENGTH & Events
The Brasshoppers program lasts 10 weeks and then restarts after a 2-week break. Each season ends with a concert in The Sanctuary Studio for parents and friends as well as a public performance at the Santa Ana First Saturday Art Walk.
REHEARSAL SESSIONS
Sessions last 1.5 hours once per week. The specific day and time of these sessions is decided in conversation with the students and parents of each cohort before the season begins.
PROGRAM FEES
Payment for the Brasshoppers program can be made in one season payment of $400 or in three monthly payments of $150 during the course of the season. This fee covers all 10 rehearsal sessions as well as the two concerts at the end of the season.
Negotiated Scholarship
A negotiated scholarship is offered to young musicians who have need of financial assistance in order to participate in our classes or programs at The Sanctuary Studio. If this is you or your child, apply for more information at the bottom of this page and ask to learn more when you hear from one of our team members.
MEET SIMON DREW
Studio Owner & Instructor
Simon Drew is an Australian musician, poet, and founder of The Sanctuary Studio for the Arts & Humanities, as well as co-founder of The Walled Garden Philosophical Society. He has performed globally with his jazz quartet aboard cruise ships, released multiple jazz and experimental albums, and performed at clubs and festivals throughout Australia. Simon is also the host of The Walled Garden Podcast, and recently published his first book of poetry and prose titled The Poet & The Sage.
Since moving to Orange County with his wife Jennifer in 2022, Simon has been building a cohort of music students, performing at Disneyland and venues across LA and OC, and expanding his creative work through The Sanctuary Studio.
Apply for more information