The Classical Instrumental Music Department is a rigorous program designed to advance individual student musician skills to their highest level. The program is configured in the classic conservatory model, where the focus is on the student excelling on his/her primary instrument. In addition, the students concentrate on the study of music theory, ear-training, music history, keyboard skills, chorus, and various ensemble repertories. Most significantly, students are instructed, monitored, and assessed on their individual progress, ongoing displays of dedication to excellence, and cooperative spirit. Although not every student may pursue further training or a professional career upon graduation, they are treated as such.

Training is for musicians in grades 9 through 12; although special exception may be made for younger, yet advanced student musicians. Students advance through pre-determined levels of instruction, with the completion of each level worthy of one credit. A student successfully completing all four levels represents the conclusion of the full classical instrumental curriculum.

In the 2007-2008 school year, students will receive special opportunities of instruction from visiting guest artists. These up-close-and-personal experiences provide a national perspective to the discipline. Recent visiting artists have included composer Andrew Wagonner, cellist Carrie Stinton, pianist Jeffrey Siegel, and the members of the Pacifica Quartet. As a special feature to the year, the program will host the 1st International Piano Competition at NOCCA in March, 2008. The competition will feature high caliber students from across the nation.

In spring 2007, students and faculty traveled to New York City for concerts, tours of halls, museum visits, and individual lessons with distinguished musicians. The trip proved to be an enriching experience in understanding classical music at the conservatory and professional levels.