BAND PROGRAM CINCINNATI —
ROCK, POP & acoustic
Play live music again. CMA’s Band Program brings students together for regular rehearsals and live performances at Cincinnati venues. Open to middle schoolers, high schoolers, young adults, and adults, the program offers professional coaching, flexible scheduling, and no long-term commitment — making it simple to get back on stage.
What is the Band Program?
Cincinnati Music Academy’s Band Program connects musicians of all ages with professional coaches to form real rock, pop, and acoustic bands. Each group learns to collaborate as a true ensemble, rehearses weekly, and performs at local venues such as Fretboard Brewing. Whether you’re picking up your instrument again or performing for the first time, CMA makes it easy to find your group and experience the energy of playing in a live band.
- 90-minute weekly rehearsals with professional coaches
- Full gear provided (drums, amps, PA, keyboards)
- Group placement by age and skill level
- Setlist built with your band (rock, pop, indie, blues)
- Seasonal showcases at Cincinnati venues
What to Expect in the Band Program
When you join the Band Program, you’ll be matched with musicians at a similar age and skill level so every rehearsal feels comfortable and productive. Teens build confidence, explore new styles, and prepare for school or college auditions. Adults reconnect with their instruments, meet other players, and enjoy performing without the hassle of organizing a band. Each group rehearses at CMA’s Kenwood studios and prepares a live set for the next student concert.
Who Are CMA Bands Perfect For?
Teens
Students who love contemporary music and want a true band experience. Build confidence, perform in authentic venues, and collaborate with peers who share your passion. CMA’s teen bands provide structure, stage experience, and the excitement of playing live.
adults
Adults returning to music after years away rediscover confidence in CMA bands. Working professionals and hobbyists join age-appropriate groups that fit busy schedules while keeping music stress-free. CMA handles space, equipment, and logistics — you just show up and play.
How Do CMA Bands Work?
Get Started
Kickoff rehearsal and song selection. Your coach helps your band choose songs that match your style and skill level for the upcoming concert cycle.
Build Skills
Work on transitions, harmonies, and stage dynamics through sectional coaching. Receive practice tracks and song charts for at-home prep.
Stage Ready
Learn mic technique, stage presence, and audience connection. Coaches refine performance flow and stage confidence.
Show Time
Perform at Fretboard Brewing or other local venues with a full dress rehearsal. Professional photography included to capture the moment.
Meet Your Band Coaches
Professional musicians who've performed, toured, and recorded—now coaching Cincinnati bands.
Joel Greenberg has been teaching professionally since 2002. He has developed a unique studio at the Cincinnati Music Academy which includes a large collection of instruments and music production equipment. Students have the opportunity do explore music beyond the traditional private lesson. As a performer Joel has toured nationally and works frequently as a freelance multi-instrumentalist for regional productions and performances. He is a graduate of the CCM Jazz Studies program, has taught at the college level, and is a co-owner of the Cincinnati Music Academy.
Niko works with students of all skill levels. He is great at making the guitar fun for kids and enjoys working with teenagers and adults as well. He specializes in teaching rock, pop, jazz, and other common styles. In his studio, beginners and casual students can count on a patient teacher who will deconstruct difficult elements into simple lessons. More adventurous and advanced learners will be challenged to excel by learning new techniques, musical genres, improvising, and more. Niko stresses the development formal music skills through learning theory and how to read music, but also loves teaching students how to “make music on the fly” and learn the songs they have always wanted to play.
Devon Leigh has been teaching drums and percussion since 2007, and has been playing the drums professionally since the age of sixteen. With many years of private teaching and professional playing experience in a wide array of musical settings, he is well equipped to provide students of all ages and skill levels with the necessary tools they need to thrive on their musical journey, whichever direction that might take.
What our Students & Families Say
Tyler
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David
Guitar
Band Program Questions
Yes. Teens rehearse with age-appropriate peers, and adults rehearse with other adults. Both play rock and pop with age-appropriate song selections.
No. We simply get to know your goals and experience so we can place you with musicians who are a good match.
Many band members return after long breaks. We pace rehearsals to rebuild skills and offer optional private lessons.
Most groups have 4–7 musicians (vocals, guitars, bass, drums, keys, horns). Acoustic, bluegrass, folk, and acoustic players are also welcome.
Bring your personal instrument. CMA provides drums, amps, microphones, keyboards, and PA.
Yes. You’re welcome to observe a rehearsal by appointment — it’s a great way to see how CMA’s Band Program works in action.
Filling out one of the below forms is not a commitment to start paying for lessons; it simply lets us know you are ready to get started.
Filling out one of the below forms is not a commitment to start paying for lessons; it simply lets us know you are ready to get started.