MAESTRO STARS ACADEMY

​Introduction

The Maestro Stars Academy curriculum is heavily based on the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) curriculum (www.rcmusic.com), which offers a comprehensive vocal program that is internationally recognized as rigorous and thorough. The RCM program not only offers vocal training, but also requires students to learn technical exercises and repertoire as well as to improve their rhythm, sight singing, ear training, and musicianship. We use RCM vocal music test materials to ensure the progress of each student. Additionally, there are less formal voice lesson options that do not strictly follow the RCM curriculum.

 

Our teachers add their own selections and flair, integrating all repertoire from pop and Disney to musical theater and Broadway. Like all professional singers, the students learn how to safely warm up and use their spoken and singing voices, apply their technical vocal skills to repertoire, and build their performance stamina as singers and actors. By practicing consistently with carefully chosen and rapidly adapting song repertoire, our students’ abilities grow quickly and are continually challenged.

 

We have three school recitals each year: one in January, one in June and one in August. At the preparatory level, students will be singing as a small ensemble and learn stage manners, stage presentations, facial expressions, and songs in different languages (English, French, Spanish, and Italian).

 

When the students finish the preparatory level and are ready to study in level 1 and above, there will be one-on-one private vocal training each week in addition to group training. Our young performers learn the skills of self-reliance and personal responsibility through solo opportunities, and they learn the value of genuine collaboration and the deep bonds of friendship it can create through ensemble experiences. Regular participation in international exchange activities also develops an awareness of the larger world and a greater understanding and appreciation of other cultures.Please contact us to make an appointment for a free trial lesson.

 

We welcome new music students as well as experienced young singers!

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RCM Curriculum Overview

The Voice Program syllabus (Level Prep to Level 10 and Associate Diploma) for the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) is available for viewing during your onsite visit. Please schedule an appointment to tour.

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Why We Chose RCM as the Curriculum Foundation for Maestro Stars Academy

In modern society, music is not just a form of entertainment but a profound expression of culture. Maestro Stars Academy has selected the globally renowned Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) as the foundation for its curriculum, a decision driven by deep considerations.

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RCM’s Global and Historical Significance

With 135 years of international recognition, RCM is not just a music education system; it is a cultural exploration process. The RCM examination system spans multiple languages (English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish) and a variety of musical styles, from early art songs to Romantic, Impressionist periods, and contemporary musical theatre repertoire. It is continuously updated every seven years to maintain its cutting-edge professionalism.

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Music: Entertainment vs. Cultural Value

While music brings temporary joy as entertainment, its cultural impact endures over centuries. RCM’s approach helps students explore the deeper cultural and historical significance of music, allowing them to appreciate the long-lasting influence of different musical styles.

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Cultural and Linguistic Mastery Through Music

RCM develops not only students’ musical skills but also their understanding of the cultural and historical values behind the music. The program’s inclusion of multilingual songs helps students retain languages through music, offering them a lifelong connection to various cultures.

The Voice as an International Language

The human voice, the most convenient instrument, serves as an international language that transcends cultural boundaries. RCM’s program enhances students’ vocal and stage presence, using the voice as a tool for cross-cultural communication and artistic expression.

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RCM’s Global Impact

As one of the most respected music education institutions, RCM’s curriculum, evaluation, and teacher certification represent the highest standard of excellence. With over 30,000 teachers and 500,000 students in North America, RCM has cultivated a legacy of excellence that extends beyond music, with alumni excelling in diverse fields such as medicine, law, and sports.

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Programs

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Junior Group

(Suggested Age 4-6 years old)

RCM Levels Preparatory - Level 2

The Junior Troupe program is designed for children ages 4 to 6 who have little or no musical or singing experience. Depending on age and music musical development, students will be assigned to different levels: Preparatory level, level 1 and level 2. In this group, students will lay the groundwork for healthy vocal technique through fun songs and musical games. They will start with unison singing and prepare to move to two-part vocal music, eventually incorporating simple choreography and acting. Our Junior students gain musical confidence and skill through solfège game and Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) Preparatory curricula in anticipation of their move to the Youth and Senior Troupes (see below).

Our youngest singers benefit from:

• A low student to teacher ratio (less than 8:1)

• Professional instructors with experience in early childhood education

• Music learning in a nurturing and friendly environment

• Age-appropriate performance opportunities

 

Junior Group I (RCM Preparatory Level):open soon in October. Sunday 10-11 am. Group Lesson 1 hour/ week

Junior Group II (RCM Level 1 to Level 2) meets Thursdays from 5:30-6:15 pm or Saturdays from 3:15-4:00 pm. 

Group lesson 45 min + private lesson 30 min weekly ( private lesson time will be arranged after enrollment.) 

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Youth Group

(Suggested Age 7 to 8 years old)

RCM Levels 3&4

Our Youth program is designed for children who have progressed through CU- MS’ Junior Troupe or who come to CU- MS with prior musical training. In tandem with the RCM curriculum, Youth students work closely with performing professionals who guide them through a rigorous program of training in stagecraft, including choreography and dance, acting and showmanship, and musical performance skills. In this age group, students are encouraged to begin private voice instruction in conjunction with their group classes.

Youth singers benefit from:

• Professional instructors with expertise in vocal technique and stagecraft

• A comprehensive curriculum designed to improve musicianship skills

• Tailored repertoire for solo, small group, and show choir performance

• Frequent performance and competition opportunities to build confidence and develop stage presence

 

For Youth Group (RCM Level 3&4), you have two locations, three class time slots to choose: 

• Main Site: 20269 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino, CA95014.

Thursdays from 6:00-7:00 pm;

Saturdays from 4:00-5:00 pm

Group lesson 60 min + private lesson 30 min weekly ( private lesson time will be arranged after enrollment.) 

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Intermediate Group

(Suggested Age 9 to 11 years old)

RCM Levels 5 & 6

The Intermediate Group at Colorful Universe- Maestro Stars builds on the skills gained in the Junior and Youth Groups. Generally, this group caters to Students who have previous experience studying or performing music are invited to join this group, pending an evaluation. In this group, students will gain a deeper understanding of music theory, sight reading skills and performance practice. They will continue their work in choreography, expressive singing, and healthy vocal production. Students will build on their ability to sing in unison, and two-parts; solidifying their independence as musicians. At this level, students are encouraged to perform solos and become leaders in their performance ensembles. 

Intermediate Group singers benefit from

• Professional instructors with expertise in choral music education and vocal performance

• An engaging curriculum to hone musicianship and musical ability

• Frequent performance opportunities in both solo and ensemble settings to build confidence and hone performance skills

• Opportunities for individual feedback within the group class and participant in local and national festivals

Intermediate group (RCM Level 5&6) meets Thursdays 7-8 pm or Saturdays from 6-7 pm. 

Group lesson 60 min + private lesson 30 min weekly ( private lesson time will be arranged after enrollment.) 

Senior Group (Suggested Age 11 to 14 years old)

RCM Levels 7 & 8 and Musical Theatre Competition Team 

In the Senior Group students will learn challenging repertoire, become dynamic and engaging performers, and sharpen the skills they gained in the previous levels. Students with prior music knowledge may enter this class through assessment only. Students at this level will study advanced musical concepts and perform excerpts from musicals and light opera. They will learn to flawlessly execute choreography while singing with excellent technique. They will develop their ability to sing complex harmonies and analyze music through performance, listening, and observation. Senior students are encouraged to take part more often in competitions, festivals, and solo performances. 

This team is planned to participate in multi national and international competitions annually. 

Senior Group Singers benefit from:

• Teachers with a wealth of performance experience 

• Challenging repertoire from all genres, regions, and eras

• Rigorous training in vocal technique and stagecraft

• Multiple performance and competition opportunities

Senior Group (11-14 years old or RCM Levels 7 & 8) meets on Fridays from 7-9 pm.

Group lesson 120 min + private lesson 45 min weekly ( private lesson time will be arranged after enrollment.) 

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Senior Advanced Group

(Suggested Age From 15 years old)

RCM Levels 9 & 10

The Senior Advanced Group is the top performing group at Colorful Universe - Maestro Stars. These students have mastered the RCM curriculum up to level 9 and perform at a collegiate level. Students new to CU- MS may be eligible to join this group with an entrance interview and assessment.  In this ensemble students have numerous performance opportunities both at home and abroad. In conjunction with their weekly rehearsals with an accomplished instructor, students will have the opportunity to be coached by internationally acclaimed performers, conductors, and vocal coaches. Advanced students are encouraged to compete in national and local competitions. This group provides many opportunities to mentor students from other groups, emcee during concerts, and work one-on-one with instructors in the planning of concerts and other events. This group not only builds student musicianship and stage presence, but helps to ready them for life after high school. 

This team is planned to participate in multi national and international competitions annually in group and solos. 

Senior Advanced Group benefits from

• Specialized instruction from music professionals across multiple disciplines

• Comprehensive training in vocal technique and artistry

• Opportunities to compete both nationally and internationally

• Numerous performance opportunities to build confidence encourage success in public speaking, event planning, and mentoring.

• Preparation for college application and interview processes

Senior Advanced Group (Age 15+ or Levels 9-10) meets on Sundays from 6:00-8:00 pm. 

Group lesson 120 min + private lesson 60 min weekly ( private lesson time will be arranged after enrollment.) 

Private Lessons (all ages)

Our private voice faculty offer one-on-one lessons to students of all ages who wish to refine their vocal technique, musicianship, and performance skills. All of our private vocal instructors are professional singers with strong backgrounds in music education. They win international vocal competitions, have a wide variety of performance experiences from world class opera houses to intimate recital halls, teach in renowned conservatories and give vocal master classes all over the world.

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If you are interested in voice lessons, please call (669) 388-9197 to make an appointment with one of our professional vocal instructors.