Music Conservatory of Westchester will offer an exciting array of new programs in music, musical theatre, and dance this fall when their semester begins Saturday, September 11. Since 1929, the Conservatory has welcomed students of all ages and skill levels, from young children to senior citizens.
“This fall we’re thrilled to introduce a number of exciting new classes,” said Dr. Jean Newton, Dean of Students and Faculty. “We’ve been amazed at the response we’ve received so far from these unique offerings.”
The Conservatory’s lineup of new classes for teens and adults includes: a World Percussion Workshop in which renowned percussionist-composer John Arrucci teaches drumming styles from across the globe; Introduction to Rock Guitar; a Theatre Audition Workshop led by Broadway veteran Sariva Goetz; and a Vocal Performance Workshop with former New York City Opera leading artist Thomas Jamerson.
“Our new Vocal Performance Workshop is a wonderful opportunity for experienced voice students — from teens on up — to take their craft to the next level in a supportive setting,” said Jamerson. “Students perform various styles and languages from the classical and musical theatre repertoire in a small ensemble setting. Instruction is given in diction, stage presence, as well as musical and dramatic interpretation.”
An expanded Adult Program features a new vocal ensemble, Sing!, that covers selections from the American songbook, musical theatre, and folk traditions from around the world. “Sing! is the perfect musical outlet for adults who are exploring their voice for the first time, as well as those who already enjoy singing,” explained Sing! instructor Nils Neubert. “We will explore a variety of singing styles, vocal coordination, solo and group singing, as well as music reading and interpretation.”
For the first time this fall, class offerings will also extend beyond music and musical theatre to include Kathak, a classical Indian dance form that will be taught by renowned master Pandit S.N. Charka, an esteemed dancer, choreographer, and teacher. Derived from the word katha, meaning “a story,” Kathak dance skillfully blends intricate rhythms, dynamic footwork, graceful gestures, and subtle facial expressions.
The Conservatory offers individual lessons in all instruments and voice, provided by expert teachers experienced in working with students of all ages and skill levels. Each student receives an individualized curriculum based on his or her goals, needs, and rate of learning. Semi-private lessons are also available on some instruments for beginner-level students. Music Theory and Music Skills classes are free for students taking individual lessons.
In addition to lessons, a wide variety of classical, jazz, vocal, and rock ensembles — large and small — are offered for youth, teens, and adults. Young thespians can take the Youth or Teen Musical Theatre Workshop, which includes acting, singing, and movement classes. The Conservatory’s youngest students enjoy Music Skills, an active learning class that gives kids a fun introduction to the fundamentals of music, as well as Suzuki instruction in violin, cello, flute, and guitar. A comprehensive Music Therapy Institute provides individualized music therapy programs, adapted instrumental and vocal instruction, group classes, and a family drum circle.
Founded in 1929, the Music Conservatory of Westchester is the oldest and largest community arts school in a five-county region comprising Westchester, Rockland, Bronx, Putnam, and Fairfield counties. Today the Conservatory serves 3,700 students ranging in age from two to 87 years, representing more than 30 nationalities, and hailing from 102 communities in a five county area.
“Accomplished musicians have studied here, performed here, and taught here. Budding performers learn their craft here,” said Carol Shiffman, Executive Director. “This is an exciting time for the Conservatory. Our dedication to lifelong learning in the arts means that we will continually strive to better respond to students’ interests, needs, and abilities. With our expanded programming for 2010-2011, we have done just that.”
Shiffman continued, “The Conservatory has made its mark as an oasis for the arts in Westchester County. As we celebrate our past, we look forward to building our future with new opportunities for everyone in the community. Technology upgrades for composition and recording, a keyboard lab, exciting new classes for adult learners, expanded workshop offerings and performance series — the potential is limitless.”
The Conservatory offers a variety of program packages as well as financial assistance for qualifying students. Registration is always open. For more information, to register, or to request an interview with Conservatory staff or faculty, please contact Jon Chattman, Director of Communications, at (914) 761-3900 x140 or jon@musiced.org.
A complete list of programs is available by visiting www.musicconservatoryonline.org.
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