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Individual Lessons for Instruments:
www.CenterstageMusicLessons.com
The Academy offers comprehensive instruction in all instruments, for all ages and skill levels. Students are taught performance, theory, ear training and sight-reading skills using standard curriculum and method books. Instructors are eager to include supplemental material of a variety of styles based on students’ interest. Our instrumental and vocal lessons are given as private, one-on-one instruction at the studio, and are available to all ages and skill levels. We offer 30, 45, and 60 minute lessons, Monday through Friday, early afternoon to late evening. Students who choose to participate in Academy Recitals are fully prepared by their instructors. Students are given additional help with material for outside auditions or competitions, band requirements, etc. Ensemble playing is encouraged whenever possible. Master Classes are offered once a year to provide students with a well-rounded music education.
Instrument Purchase or Rental: It is recommended that students talk with their instructor before purchasing or renting an instrument: this will eliminate some confusion, insure that the instrument fits properly and is suitable for learning, and prevents costly mistakes. Instructors can recommend certain stores and can assist in sizing. Angelico Violins in Chesapeake is preferred as a source for violin rentals and purchases. Acoustic pianos are generally recommended for piano students, although keyboards with full-size keys may be appropriate for beginning students. Schaztel Piano Service is reliable for tuning and repair: 898-8518.
Books: Most of your books and lesson materials will be supplied by the studio, at which time you will be mailed an invoice. Some books and music recordings may be available to check out; however, if the item is returned damaged (including pen or pencil markings) the student will be billed for its replacement. Students are encouraged to seek supplementary materials of their interest, but their instructor must determine whether it is appropriate for lesson study.
Other Materials: Lesson Assignment Notebooks (practice record books) are required of all students, some instructors require 1 inch binders with side pockets, notebook paper, and manuscript paper. When appropriate, students should invest in instrument cleaning kits, valve oil and rosin for bows, as well as keep extra reeds, strings and picks on hand. Classical guitarists will need a foot stool. Metronomes and music stands are required by some teachers, recommended by others.
- Piano, Age 3 and up
- Flute, Ages 7-9 and up
- Violin, Ages 5 and up
- Drums & Percussion, Ages 5-6 and up
- Guitar, Ages 7-8 and up
- Trumpet & Cornet, Age 9 and up
- Trombone & Tuba, Age 12 and up
- Saxophone, Age 10 and up
- Clarinet, Ages 7-9 and up
Individual Lessons for the Voice:
www.CenterstageVoice.com
Centerstage offers individual vocal instruction for students beginning at age 11-13 through adult, at all levels of learning and experience. Students are taught technique, sight-singing, theory, performance, and more. Younger students are taught the basics and are given valuable experience, but are limited to exercises and techniques which will not damage their developing voices. Advanced vocalists are able to refine and polish their skills, increase their range, further develop their stage presence, and receive the training and guidance necessary to pursue whatever goals they may have, including career and professional performance opportunities.
Students in grades 1-5 that are intersted in vocal technique are encouraged to enroll in the Elementary Music Theatre class. Vocal technique and performance are part of the curriculum, and all exercises are age-appropriate.
Students seeking private instruction should schedule a vocal evaluation before enrolling. Mark Bzdick will be able to give an individualized recommendation for each student, whether it be a private lessons with a specific instructor, or vocal classes.
Most vocal students are given books or materials that include a practice/performance CD. These vary greatly in style depending upon students’ interest. All vocal students are encouraged to work with their instructor to prepare for the seasonal recitals.
Vocal Classes:
Instructor Mark Bzdick has created Vocal Classes for students in grades 6-8 (Class 1) and grades 9-12 (Class 2). The classes combine vocal warm-ups and exercises with ear training and theory. Students are also able to develop part-singing and ensemble skills. Both classes participate in the seasonal recitals, as well as the Centerstage Follies production (a musical revue performed at the Yoder Barn).
Students interested in the Vocal Classes should contact the studio office and schedule a vocal evaluation.
String Ensemble Classes:
Instructor Guy Hayden offers two strings classes: the Suzuki Violin Class (which covers Book 1) and the String Orchestra Class (for more advanced students). Both classes are offered once a month in addition to private lessons. They are highly recommended and are essential to developing musicians.
All string students are encouraged to participate. Contact the studio office to reserve your spot in the class.
Little Rhythm Drum Classes:
For those students ages 5-7 who are interested in music, but aren't quite ready for private lessons, the Little Rhythm Drum Class offers the perfect opportunity. Students will explore the fundamentals of music and rhythm using the method of the African drum circle. Students will be provided with a variety of hand drums, shakers and other percussion instruments. This is an exciting beginning for any budding musician--a great foundation for the later pursuit of any instrument!
Young Performers Program:
www.CenterstageYoungPerformers.com
The Academy offers a uniuqe program for Young Performers ages 3 to 6 years. This program includes instruction in voice and instrumental skills, as well as drama and choreography. Using the Music for Little Mozarts curriculum and many other supplements, this is a one-of-a-kind exploratory program which includes mini-musical performances in the Fall and Spring Showcases and a part in the Centerstage Follies (a music revue)--both to be performed at the Yoder Barn. Check out the complete description of this program on our Young Performers page.
December & June Recitals:
The Academy encourages all instrumental and vocal students to participate in the December and June Recitals, although they are an optional activity. The recitals are designed to provide a positive experience for each student, to inspire a deeper level of refinement for a selected piece, and to encourage further study and performance. Students must submit a Recital Entry Form one month prior to the recital date in order to be added to the program.
The December Recital is an annual favorite. Students are encouraged to play a piece of their choice, either classical or festive in nature. This will take place at St. Mark's Lutheran Church on December 12.
The June Recital is the cumulative event for the year, and is scheduled for June 19 at the Ferguson Center's Music & Theatre Concert Hall. While June is a busy time of the year, this event is very important as an educational and motivational tool.
Classical Honors Recital:
The Classical Honors Recital takes place in February and is limited to those students nominated by their instructors (limit of 6 students per instructor). This is a prestigious performance opportunity designed to prepare advanced performers for competitions and auditions, to give serious students an opportunity to be challenged and showcased, and to promote a variety of standard, classical repertoire.
Although this is not a judged competition, the qualifications of the participants, and their performance requirements, meet the same stringent standards of all major competitions. Solo classical music only, minimum Level 2 or equivalent skill level. At the Honors Recital, students must perform two selections from different eras, time limit 7 minutes. A third selection, from another era, can be performed at any Centerstage Recital occurring after the previous Honors Recital. Selections are to be individually timed, minutes and seconds. No repeats except those necessary to complete a musical thought (8-16 bars). No repeats in classical sonatas or sonatinas. Students may not present repertoire that they have performed in previous Honors Recitals. Piano repertoire must be as written by the composer, no themes or simplified versions. Instruments other than piano may use transcriptions. Voice students may use English or alternative text, as long as the melody is of a noted classical composer. Music to be approved by Gay Ross-Clunis in advance. Piano and voice participants must perform by memory. Students must submit a Recital Entry Form one month prior to the recital date.
Master Classes:
Students will have the opportunity to participate in the Master Classes each year with their instructor and their peers. This is a good opportunity to gain performance experience and address stage etiquette, to try out different instruments in our Instrument Petting Zoo, and to receive valuable instruction that cannot be covered in an individual lesson. Topics may include composer studies, practice techniques, instrumental or vocal ensembles, and overviews of musical styles and eras. Master Classes are given in place of private lessons the week of Thanksgiving, and will culminate with a Jazz Concert by Eric Musselwhite, Scott Davis, Zach Moats, and guest artists.
Registration:
New students may register by contacting Meggie Lowell at (757) 890-0175 during regular office hours, Monday-Thursday, 2:00-7:00pm. General email inquiries can be sent to www.centerstageacademyva.com or csbuzz@aol.com. The following staff can be reached at these email addresses:
Tuition:
Tuition payments are made one month in advance, according to the annual Tuition Calendar, by automatic credit card payment (or check card) payment. Tuition can also be paid by check, but must be paid three months in advance. Students will be invoiced for incidentals, such as recital fees or books. Questions regarding current billing and accounts can be directed to the bookkeeper, Blanche Brooks, at (757) 890-0175 or billing@centerstageacademyva.com. |
