A 5-Week Program for Creative Musical Expression and Industry Navigation
The Modern Artist Combo Class brings together talented young artists across SoCal, ages 14-18, to learn more about improvisation, composition, performance, and entrepreneurship.
Modeled after the 4-day Summer intensive, this combo class is perfect for students looking for an extended program where they can dive even deeper into their skills development and gain invaluable experience collaborating with a group.

MISSION
INSTRUCTION
DETAILS
The Modern Artist aims to solidify music fundamentals, improve original musical expression, and discover creative ways to navigate the music industry.
The Modern Artist is led by pianist Michael Ragonese. Learn more below
When: March 2 - March 30, 2025
Where: Michael's Residence North Hollywood
Deadline to Apply: Feb 21, 2025
LISTEN + LEARN + APPLY
Rags School of Music Pedagogy
Rags School of Music implements a balanced approach to music pedagogy, providing classroom learning, one-on-one instruction, collaboration, and live performance experience. Students will gain valuable experience transferring what they learn in class to the stage with confidence.
COURSES OFFERED
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Jazz Improvisation
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Jazz History/Listening
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Jazz Theory/Harmony
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Composition
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Music Technology
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Music Professionalism/Entrepreneurship
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Small Group Rehearsals

Logistics
TUITION & FEES
$390
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SCHEDULE
Sunday, March 2: 2-4pm
Sunday, March 9: 2-4pm
Sunday, March 16: 2-4pm
Sunday, March 23: 2-4pm
Sunday, March 30: 2-3:30pm
Sunday, March 30: 6pm concert
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LOCATION
Classes at 5553 Auckland Ave, North Hollywood CA
Final Performance: Hollywood Piano, Pasadena CA
*Address will be provided via email to registered students.
Learn & Create in a Professional Music Studio
Participants in the 6-week Modern Artist Combo Class will have the opportunity to rehearse in a professional studio space and record the pieces they have been working on together.
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By immersing themselves in the recording process, students will gain valuable insights into studio techniques, production nuances, and the intricacies of bringing their musical creations to life. This real-world exposure not only enhances their technical skills but also prepares them for the dynamic and competitive landscape of the music industry.

Meet the Instructor

MICHAEL RAGONESE | PIANO
Michael Ragonese is a Los Angeles based pianist, composer, arranger, and educator who received his Bachelors of Music in Jazz Studies at California State University Northridge in 2014. Michael has performed, recorded and toured with artists such as Barbra Streisand, Dave Koz, Engelbert Humperdinck, Bennie Maupin, Charnett Moffett, Alphonso Johnson, John Daversa, Louise Cole, Darek Oles, Walter Smith III, Mark Turner, David Binney, Bob Reynolds, Bob Sheppard, Rick Braun, Aubrey Logan and Grace Kelly. Michael has released 2 albums and has toured nationally and internationally as a band leader. He has been reviewed by some of the top Jazz publications in the country. In Addition to Michael's performance career, he runs a music school named "Rags school of Music" that encourages students to study and learn how to improvise and play in the jazz style of music.