Question 1

What music experience is required?

Accepted Answer

The following courses do NOT require previous music or learning experience:
All Individual Track Instruction, Songwriting, Music Production, and Audio/Visual Technology courses.
 
Vocal experience is recommended for students enrolling in The Vocal Group training.
The Worship Academy Ensemble is reserved for students at an intermediate to advanced level of skill. (experience required)
 
*Students who are serious about participating in the Worship Ensemble are encouraged to consider enrolling in the Individual Track courses to gradually progress toward higher levels of performance skill.

Question 2

How can I determine if my skill level is intermediate /advanced prior to applying for the IOP Worship Ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Voice: Applicants should be able to maintain good intonation, to hear and hold a pitch, and be comfortable singing in a group setting. Some experience is preferred.
 
Piano/Keyboard: Applicants should know all the notes on the piano, play all major scales, all major and minor chords, all major and minor seventh chords, and play in rhythm with a metronome.
 
Guitar: Applicants should be able to play basic open and bar chords, play with a metronome, hear and playback rhythms and play with a bassist and drummer.                         
 
Bass: Applicants should be able to play in time and have a firm understanding of note lengths, and play well with a drummer.
 
Drums: Applicants should be able to play with a metronome, be comfortable playing with an ensemble, and have at least four to five basic grooves that they play with confidence.

Question 3

What should the placement video consist of?

Accepted Answer

A video recording is required only for those applying to the IOP Worship Ensemble and is used to assess skill level for sectional placement. 
 
Please record two or three songs with or without accompaniment (1 or 2 minutes of each song is all that’s necessary).  The recording should NOT be professionally recorded, contain edits, or any other kind of production that may make it hard to gauge skill level.  Forward all placement recordings to _______________ .

Note:  Say your name and the title of the song at the beginning of each recording.

Question 4

What if I am unable to attend a session?

Accepted Answer

Please notify the office as far IN ADVANCE as possible prior to missing a session. Individual Track students may receive 2 make-up lessons if a 24-hour notice is received. There are no make-up classes for group and ensemble programs and fees are not be prorated.
 
If an instructor is absent for any reason, a qualified substitute instructor will be provided.  Participants are encouraged to inquire about and complete missed individual or group assignments prior to attending their next session.

Question 5

Where are sessions held?

Accepted Answer

IOP is an independent, non-profit organization currently housed on the campus of Lake Avenue Church in Pasadena.  All sessions are held at, but not sponsored by the church.
 
IOP serves individuals and churches throughout the San Gabriel Valley and Los Angeles County area and is not specific to a church or denomination.

Question 6

Can I speak with someone regarding additional questions?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  We would be glad to connect with you.  Please send your questions and someone from the office will reach out to you.  (place CONTACT US link here)