Group Classes

Ethos' group classes offer kids the opportunity to learn in a fun and supportive environment. Students engage with their instructor and peers as they learn to work and play together as a group. Ethos offers group classes for students ages 5 and up, including all-ages and intergenerational classes.

We offer discounted rates for students qualifying for OHS and SNAP benefits. Families who don’t qualify for those programs may still be eligible for reduced rates based on their income and household size. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have questions or need assistance choosing the right instrument, group lesson, or instructor!

Winter Term 2026 Registration Opens November 17th!

Register Now

Please see below for detailed class and ensemble descriptions.

Winter term group classes will not be held on the following dates:

1/19 - MLK Jr. Day (Ethos Closed)

2/16 - President’s Day (Ethos Closed)

Group & Ensemble Lesson Cost

Full Price: $225.00

OHP/Snap: $155.25

Free Lunch Price: $95.25

Prices cover all classes within 10 week term.

Specialty Classes

Browse our specialty group classes below and find the right one for you! To sign up, click the “register now” button at the top of this page.

  • Ages 10 and up

    A supportive and welcoming music class for LGBTQ+ identifying students and students looking to create and perform in a group LBGTQ+ focused community setting. Each term, Queer Music Class students will work together with instructors to determine what their class focus will be - such as a rock band, a choir, a musical production, or a songwriting collective - and will work together to achieve their co-created goals. In Queer Music Class, students will learn about and celebrate the work of Queer artists while nurturing LGBTQ+ pride, joy, and belonging through the arts.

    Thursday, 6:00-6:50 PM, 1/8-3/12

  • Ages 7 - 10

    This unique course uses music as a tool to integrate the teaching of English and Spanish in an inclusive and diverse environment, through Musical games, project-based learning, multisensory and collaborative activities, and exercises that include a variety of cultural expressions. Taught by an expert teaching team of bilingual instructors, students learning Spanish as a second language or English as a second language, as well as Spanish/English bilingual students will enjoy learning and making music together in this dynamic and inclusive class. Examples of class activities include learning and practicing traditional and popular songs from multiple cultures and geographic areas, creating art projects, engaging in group movement and dance games, and playing a variety of instruments. Students of all experience levels, backgrounds, and abilities are welcome, and course content is paced and adapted to meet individual student needs.

    Thursday, 7:00-7:50 PM, 1/8-3/12

  • Ages 7-17

    Mega Rock Band is an introductory rock band class for students of varying experience levels who are interested in playing in a group setting. Students will learn how to play rock instruments as an ensemble and learn two or more songs to perform at the end of term showcase. Unlike our other rock bands, Mega Rock Band does not require teacher recommendation and can accommodate multiple students on the same instrument. Some prior instrumental or vocal experience is required.

    Tuesday, 5:30-6:20 PM, 1/6-3/10

  • Groovin’ Guppies Mixed Ages

    Ages 0-5 with caregiver (prenatal parents welcome!)

    Our mixed-age Groovin Guppies class emphasizes child/caregiver interaction through singing, storytelling, free and exploratory movement, rhymes and fingerplays, and rhythmic instrument play. Children will practice building motor skills and listening skills and caregivers will receive ideas for including music and creativity in their family’s everyday life. It’s never too early to introduce your young one to music - prenatal parents are welcome to join!

    Saturday 9:30-10:15am 1/10-3/21

    Groovin’ Guppies Preschool

    Ages 3-5

    Groovin Guppies Preschool is a play and exploration-focused music and movement class for kids ages 3-5. Imaginative group activities - including singing, rhythmic instrument play, movement games, and, movement and sound stories -  aim to cultivate students’ creativity and independence as well as their social-emotional and cooperative skills. Groovin Guppies Preschool is a great first class in performing arts (music, dance, theater, and storytelling)that not only builds foundational skills, but plants the seeds for a lifelong love of the arts.

    Saturday 9:30-10:15am 1/10-3/14

  • Ages 7-17

    In this introductory class, students will learn the basics of music production, from beat making to creating their own compositions through accessible platforms like GarageBand and Bandlab. Through hands-on activities, they'll explore a variety of virtual instruments, loops, and effects to create their own unique sound. This class is perfect for beginners who want to dive into music technology and unleash their creativity with user-friendly tools.

    Tuesday, 7:00-7:50, 1/3-3/10

  • Ages 8+

    In this 10-week course, students will create hooks, riffs and melodies that they will then expand and transform into complete songs with original lyrics. This class is suitable for intermediate students of any instrument and age. This is a collaborative, fast-paced course. Be prepared to brainstorm together, give and receive supportive feedback, and to play and write with your peers and teachers!

    Monday, 7:00-7:50 PM, 1/5-3/23

  • Ages 5-7

    A fun introduction to music for students ages 5-7. Rhythm, Blues, and Kazoos combines elements of storytelling, drawing, music appreciation, lessons in basic keyboard skills, group singing, and kazoo playing to pique students’ curiosity and interest in musical learning, while building foundational skills that they can use wherever their musical journey takes them. If you’re looking to get your child involved in music but aren’t sure what instrument or path is right for them, this class is a perfect way to get them started!

    Thursday, 4:00-4:50 PM, 1/8 - 3/12

Instrumental and Singing Classes

Browse our instrumental and singing group classes below and find the right one for you! To sign up, click the “register now” button at the top of this page.

  • Ages 5-7


    Developing musical literacy and listening skills through exploration and play, the Kinder Keys group piano class is designed to provide an inclusive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate music experience for learners ages 5-7 years old. Our approach honors each child’s learning style, encourages explorations and develops foundational music and social skills in a fun and supportive environment. Kinder Keys isn’t just piano…it builds confidence, creativity, and classroom readiness! Book purchase required -Faber Piano Beginner ($10.00 available at first class)

    Monday, 4:00-4:50 PM, 1/3 - 3/23

    Tuesday, 4:00-4:50 PM, 1/6 - 3/10

    Tuesday, 5:00-5:50 PM, 1/6 - 3/10

    Thursday, 4:10-5:00 PM, 1/8 - 3/13

    Friday, 4:40-5:30 PM, 1/9 - 3/13

  • Ages 8-10


    This piano class for beginners ages 8-10 introduces students to the fundamentals of music, including reading music notation and performing basic rhythms and simple melodies. Through fun, interactive lessons and hands-on practice, students will build confidence and social skills and gain a deeper appreciation for music while developing their musical skills at their own pace.

    Friday, 5:00-5:50 PM, 1/9 - 3/13

  • Ages 7-10


    A group piano class for students ages 7-10 with some previous group or private piano experience. Students will build their knowledge of music fundamentals, practice reading and writing music notation, and will work on advancing their keyboard skills through individual and group practice, musical games, and appropriately challenging repertoire.  An excellent class for students who have taken one or more sessions of Kinderkeys* or who are looking to continue studying piano in a group setting. *If your student has taken one or more sessions of Kinderkeys, we recommend consulting your instructor to determine if Group Piano 2 would be an appropriate class for them.

    Wednesday, 5:00-5:50 PM, 1/7 - 3/11

Piano

  • Ages 8-12


    In this class students will be introduced to the acoustic guitar. They will learn basic chords, strumming patterns, tuning and melodies while also learning to use chord charts and basic guitar tablature. Group guitar class is a great way to explore the guitar in a supportive and social environment as well as a good springboard for private guitar lessons.

    Tuesday, 6:00-6:50 PM, 1/13 - 3/17

  • Ages 5-7


    In this fun and beginner-friendly ukulele class, students will learn the basics of playing this cheerful instrument, including chords, strumming techniques, and simple songs. The class provides a relaxed environment to explore music, build confidence, and develop a love for playing. Group ukulele is a great first music class and can also be a perfect fit for kids who love to sing or for young aspiring guitar players.

    Tuesday 5:00-5:50pm 1/6 - 3/10

Guitar and Ukulele

  • Ages 5-7

    Kinder Choir is a class for beginning singers ages 5-7. Students will learn fundamental singing techniques, solfege, and rhythm through fun music games in an inclusive and fun environment. In each session, students practice singing a small repertoire of songs that they will perform together at an end of term showcase.

    Wednesday, 5:00-5:50 PM, 1/7 - 3/11

  • All Ages - youth and adults


    Community choir is an intergenerational choir class for singers of all ages and levels. Community choir singers will learn and practice music from a variety of traditions, styles, and genres, in a fun and welcoming environment that invites everyone to share their voice and build community through song. This class is a great opportunity for families to learn together and develop a love and appreciation of music and singing.

    Wednesday, 6:00-5:50pm 1/7 - 3/11

  • Ages 8+

    Vocal Ensemble is a small group class for singers with some prior vocal experience who want to improve their singing skills. Students will work together to learn songs of their choice, build harmonies, and learn how to listen and blend as a group. Vocal Ensembles will be formed according to the interests and skill levels of interested students. Teacher recommendation required.

    Wednesday 7:00-7:50 PM, 1/7 - 3/11

Voice & Choir

  • Ages 10 and under


    This group is for complete beginners, who have never touched the instrument before, up until those who can play midway through Suzuki book 1. Students under the age of 10 who are new need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian with an instrument who is attending class, learning the instrument alongside and facilitating at-home practice (no extra charge and we can provide the adult violin). Instructor approval required. This class requires student/caregiver commitment to regular (i.e. daily) practice outside of class time to ensure student success.

    Mondays, 4:00-4:50 PM, 1/5 - 3/23

  • Ages 13+

    Open to fiddle, cello, guitar, flute. Play session tunes in a friendly group setting. Often draws on music from the Portland Collection Vol 1-3 books. Class is spent fluently playing through jigs reels and waltzes with guitar accompaniment.

    Adult Fiddle class is scheduled based on level of interest. Call or email if interested.

Violin

Performance Ensembles

Browse our performance ensemble group classes below and find the right one for you! To sign up, click the “register now” button at the top of this page.

  • Ages 10+

    Percussion Ensemble is a group class for students ages 10 and up who are interested in exploring multiple types of percussion instruments including mallet percussion, hand percussion, and found instruments. Students will learn a wide variety of percussion repertoire and practice percussion techniques for multiple instruments, while playing together as a group. Some prior drumming or percussion experience is recommended. A great class for beginning and intermediate drumming students interested in ensemble playing and advancing students who want to build their percussion skills.

    Monday, 7:00-7:50 PM, 1/5 - 3/23

  • Ages 12+

    Jazz ensemble is a performance-based ensemble for students who are looking to build a strong foundation in the genre. Students will learn jazz standards, improvisation, and how to listen and play together as a group. Open to students who can sightread, know scales and note names, and read basic chord charts. Jazz ensemble is a great opportunity for advancing students to hone their chops and build their jazz performance and arranging skills.

    Friday, 5:00-5:50 PM, 1/9 - 3/13

  • In this exciting rock band class for kids with at least one year of experience on their instrument, students hone their skills while collaborating with fellow band members. They’ll learn to play songs of the band's choice, develop their stage presence, and improve their ability to perform as a tight-knit group. This class provides a fun and challenging environment where young musicians can grow and express their creativity. Teacher recommendation required.

    Scheduled according to performer and teacher availability. Email lessons@ethos.org or call 503-283-8467 if interested.

  • A rock band-style ensemble for students interested in performing metal music. Instructor approval required.

    Friday 6:00-6:50pm 1/9 - 3/13

Instrument Rentals for Qualifying Students

After registering, contact instruments@ethos.org to set up an appointment with our instrument team.