The Collective is a world-class learning center for drumset players, percussionists, bassists, keyboardists and guitarists of all levels. We offer plans of study ranging from individual lessons and clinics to full-time programs of ten weeks to two-years in length. If you're serious about becoming the best musician you can be - we're serious about helping you accomplish that goal.
The story of The Collective from its inception in 1977 to the present:

The Drummers Collective - Founded in 1977, The Drummers Collective was created by a small group of professional New York drummers. The idea was to assemble a faculty of top professional players who had the professional experience and the ability and desire to teach. For the past thirty years, this original concept has been the foundation stone of The Drummers Collective, as well as the other divisions of The Collective, and has helped make it the world's premier drum school.

The Bass Collective - The Bass Collective was started in the summer of 1996, as a complement to the Drummers Collective, with the idea that drummers and bass players should learn together about the music they play together. The professional focus of the Bass Collective is exemplified by its faculty and curriculum that offers and demands excellence.

The Guitar and Keyboard Collective - The Guitar and Keyboard Collective programs were added to The Collective in 2000. This new division gives The Collective a complete rhythm section emphasis. Rhythm sections are integral to ensemble performance and therefore offer the most effective learning environment for the students of popular music. With the addition of this new program, guitar and keyboard students now have the opportunity to study full-time at The Collective.

The SOJ Jazz Center - The SOJ Jazz Center was established in 1973 by John Castellano, the Collective's Director, and became a part of the Collective in 1990. The SOJ division offers Jazz ensemble workshops and private lessons for players on all levels of experience. Classes include Jazz Workshops, Big Band, and Rep Class.



Curriculum:

Our curriculum encompasses full-time certificate programs, custom programs, part-time programs, group classes, master classes, and private lessons. Geared to today's serious student, The Collective offers instruction in a wide range of musical styles, including Jazz, Rock, Funk, Brazilian and Afro-Cuban. We also offer courses which focus on the development of musicianship and professional performance skills.

Full-Time Programs:

Our full-time programs offer students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the study of their instrument in an exciting and supportive environment. However, The Collective has always offered part-time programs geared to the local area.

Application Process:

The application for all programs can be picked up at The Collective, or downloaded from the Collective website (www.thecoll.com). The completed application should be mailed, or faxed to The Collective, at 212-414-5781. Applications may also be sent via E-mail as a jpeg, or pdf.

Auditioning:

An audition is required for all programs. Auditions may be taken in person, by sending an audio recording (no videos please), or by E-mail, via MP3, or zip files. Please review the audition requirements on our web site: www.thecoll.com. Available spots are limited, therefore, it is recommended that you send in your audition material as soon as you can.


Click the links below to find out more about our full-time programs











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