2009 Classes and Schedules
CCAC reserves the right to cancel or withdraw classes from this website. The school also reserves the right to withdraw or substitute instruction.
- CCAC Teaching Artists - View Bios
- 2009 Class Schedule (PDF) - View Schedule
- Enrollment Policies - View Policies
Select a class below for more information.
Programs & Private/Group Classes
Instrumental Music
Private instruction, group classes, performance classes, improvisation workshops, ensemble playing, and artist residencies taught by established professionals all help students become fluent musicians.
Students enrolled in private instruction receive a weekly 30-45 minute lesson on a musical instrument.
Lessons focus on efficient practice habits, reading musical notation, theory, chords, composition, critical listening, expression, memorization, ear training, developing performance skills, and building solid technique. An appropriate instructional level is determined by the instructor. Students should bring a tape recorder and notebook to lessons.
All students must have an appropriate instrument for daily practice. Instruments may be rented for a nominal fee from a local vendor. Piano students without an instrument and students in need of rehearsal space may make arrangements to practice at CCAC. Practice studios are reserved with the Registrar 2-3 days in advance.
Voice
Training for the younger students (ages 10 & up) teens, adults and professionals in a weekly 30-45 minute private lesson. Voice study leads to increased competence in basic vocal technique, including tone production, breath control, articulation, diction, stage deportment and audition techniques. Students participate in at least one recital per year and may be invited to audition for additional performances. Voice students should bring a tape recorder and notebook to lessons.
Group Piano
Group piano provides an opportunity for youth to explore their interest in learning the instrument. Basic introduction to playing the piano is taught in a group setting. Major scales, triad chords and beginner songs are taught. Those who demonstrate discipline and appropriate practice habits may advance into private study.
Theory
All music students 8 years old and older are required to attend Winter/Spring music theory and ear training classes. The appropriate level is assigned by the instructor.
Group Classes Early Childhood Music, Electronic Music Recording, Group Piano
Early Childhood Music
(for children 24 months to 5 years old) ECM gives children experiences and guidance in music that supports their natural musical development. Children learn to use their singing voices, and move rhythmically to a wide variety of live and recorded music. In this class, children are nurtured through their musical development at their own rate they sponge in their musical environment, learn to imitate it, and eventually develop an understanding of music that lasts a lifetime. Music stimulates brain and language development, math concepts, critical thinking socialization and listening skills Musical language and symbols are introduced. Parents or an adult partner must participate in class with children. Classes are 30 minutes in keeping with the developmental attention span for young children.
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Performance Ensembles
Music Ensembles
Ensemble playing is a major part of the curriculum, and every student is encouraged to participate in one of the school's music groups. Group playing provides the stimulus to refine individual skills, encourages cooperation and most importantly, offers the joy of creating music with others. Music students may have opportunities to play in various combinations of ensembles, with the recommendation of the instructor.
Fruits of the Spirit
An inter-generational ensemble that performs a repertory of international music celebrating world culture. The ensemble combines music, dance and spoken word performances with community service. FOS audiences are uplifted by the healing power of the arts. The ensemble provides members with the opportunity to gain professional vocal training, while learning a challenging body of choral music. FOS share their artistic gifts in public service to our community, the region and the world. In 2007 FOS toured the Tuscany region of Italy. In 2008 the group toured Puerto Rico and in 2010, FOS will tour South Africa under the direction of Suzzette Ortiz, and Dennis Fortune Assistant Director.
Choreography Ensemble
A collective of dancers of varying ages, the ensemble performs primarily modern, jazz and ballet works. The ensemble is widely known, and travels regionally for performances. The Ensemble prepares dancers for successful acceptance into Eleone Connection II, Alvin Ailey, Dance Theater of Harlem, Rock School of Ballet and other intensive programs. Participation in the company is by audition only. Pre-requisite ballet and modern are classes and a minimum of 3-4 years of disciplined study is required for participation. The ensemble, taught by Dara Stevens-Meredith. is widely known, and travels regionally for performances. Many CCAC graduates currently manage and/or tour with professional companies.
Paul Robeson Ensemble
The ensemble is workshop-based and performance-focused. Students must be interested in cross training exploring art making through improvisation. Drama, dance, music, and the visual arts are interwoven to give students a broad palate upon which to create. This class is designed to equip students with the techniques and processes to move beyond mere performance to becoming creators of artistic expression. Ensemble members are challenged to create a new paradigm for art making. Enrollment in an appropriate level acting class in addition to the Paul Robeson ensemble and some performance experience is required. Auditions are held in the fall and spring.
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Performance Classes
All students are encouraged to attend performance classes conducted by CCAC faculty. In addition to performing for each other, students are provided useful feedback on stage presence, clarity, style of expression and technique. Students may sign-up for performance classes with their instructors.
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Recitals
Annual student/faculty recital series are held February through June. This is an opportunity for students to acquire performance experience and for family members to enjoy the fruits of the student's labor. The faculty works with students to select pieces to be performed. Students may participate in multiple recitals.
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Theater Arts
Early Childhood Drama, Youth Acting, Teen/Adult Acting, Acting for the Performing Artist Classes are offered for children ages 5-12, teens and adults. The overall goal of the curriculum is to develop basic acting techniques, dramatic interpretation, creative improvisation, scene and character study. Courses utilize the Stanislavski Morris and improvisation methods.
Early Childhood Drama
This class concentrates on games and exercises that stimulate the imagination and creativity. Students utilize the art of play to gain exposure to the rudiments of the stage and the dramatic craft.
Youth Drama
These classes are for children between the ages of 8 and 13. The course covers the basic concepts of acting. Students gain an understanding of sensory exercises and improvisation. A variety of theater games, as well as creative dramatics are used to aid the student in an understanding of acting techniques. Students who continue their study will gain exposure to monologues, skits, beginning level character development and stage direction.
Teen/Adult Acting
This class is for ages 14 to adult and covers the basic concepts of acting. Attention is on the student’s understanding of sensory exercises and improvisation. Theater terminology and a variety of theater games are also explored. As the student advances, topics such as character development, scene work, technical aspects of theater and audition techniques are covered.
Acting for the Performing Artist
This class is designed to give the performing musician/dancer/singer an actor’s view of the stage. Dancers, musicians, vocalists, and poets benefit from the exploration of such topics as stage presence, character development, vocal intonation and inflection, and much more. The class will draw on the resident strengths of students, as well as introduce skill acquisition that will further enhance their area of discipline.
Preparation for Auditions
Students who need coaching for auditions are advised to inform the instructor of dates and times of auditions 6-8 weeks in advance to allow for optimal preparation. All acting students are required to read and attend plays during the year. A minimum of two theater productions are produced each year. Theater Arts students are encouraged to participate in these productions as either cast or stage crew. Annually, CCAC presents (1) fully staged theatrical work. Participation in these performances is by audition only. Audition notices are posted 10 weeks prior to a production.
The Art In A Woman
Mondays 6:00-9:00PM
September 21-December 14
A dynamic, multi-week workshop for diverse women ages 25-105. Nurture your creativity, and soothe your spirit! A host of guest teaching artists recognized on Broadway, Film/TV, and in the Music Industry will guide participants through a maze of exciting activities using the performing and visual arts. Participants will join celebrities onstage in January for the Art In A Woman Concert, presented by look/see and the Christina Cultural Arts Center New Works Series!
Guests Teaching Artists
Barbara Walker - Powerhouse international Vocalist/Composer and featured with the Uri Caine Ensemble on The Othello Syndrome, a 2009 Grammy Nominated Best Classical Crossover Album.
Tyrick Wiltez Jones - Arts Educator / Broadway Actor, Broadway Arts Alliance Master Instructor and Vocalist with Mary Wilson of The Supremes 2008 Tour. Currently featured in Finian's Rainbow, opening on Broadway Fall 2009.
Bonita Hamilton - Broadway Actress appeared in The Color Purple, in the original company. Currently, starring as "Shenzi" in the Broadway Company of The Lion King.
Kate McCann - Composer and actress appeared in Smokey Joe's Cafe, National Tour, Blues in the Night at Skylight Opera Theater, and Emerald Man, Off Broadway.
Jayne Trinette - Arts Educator / Actress / Composer / Vocalist currently star as "Rose" in August Wilson's Fences at American Stage Theater. Ms. Trinette appeared in national tours of Caroline or Change (the washing machine), and The Lion King as Shenzi. Ms. Trinette is Founder of the LoveArts organization, promoting literacy through the performing arts.
Lauren Hubbell - Actor / Dancer appeared in European, Asian, and US companies of West Side Story (Baby John). Mr. Hubbell is an Alumnus of The School of American Ballet.
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Visual Arts
The classes offered in visual arts give students an awareness of the structure of visual communication and related sources of form in the environment. Studio experiences in drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture introduce these art forms to children and adults. Creative visual instruction is given to students of various backgrounds and interests. Various aspects of art history are covered and include slide presentations and video. Student work is exhibited annually in the Edward Loper, Sr. Gallery and throughout New Castle County.
*Note Students are required to maintain basic art supplies including a sketch pad, HB to 4H lead pencils, and a watercolor set and brushes. Photography & Creative Design, (Jewelry & Silk Design) are also offered in special workshops.
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Dance
The Dance Program has a wide offering of developmentally appropriate classes designed to prepare students to make an artistic statement through movement. Dance demands physical, mental and spiritual endurance. Students are taught to prevent injury through warm-up exercises and acquire an understanding of anatomy, alignment and placement. Any student who has had a physical injury must present a physician’s authorization before enrollment is accepted.
Students who are committed to learning dance fundamentals and technique in preparation for a dance concentration are required to complete Early Childhood Movement I & II, Ballet Levels A,B, & C and Modern I, II and Choreography classes. Students may combine the study of ballet with other dance forms such as Tap, African, Acrobatics, Hip Hop and/or Jazz. However, Ballet & Modern technique are an essential foundation.
Early Childhood Movement (Children ages 3-6)
Very young students are introduced to the world of dance through creative movement. All CCAC dance students between the ages of 3 and 5 begin with Early Childhood Movement. ECM helps children to gain an awareness of their bodies, and teaches arts expression through movement. Large motor development, listening skills, direction, self-control and rhythmic sense are developed. Children learn the basic principles of body patterning, rhythm, space, weight and shape. Students work on overall coordination, correct posture, self-control, discipline and creative expression. Classes are 30 minutes in keeping with appropriate attention spans for very young children.
Beginning Ballet
Is an introduction to beginner ballet technique. Previous formal training
acceptable but not required. This class is designed to establish the student's proper
body alignment, vocabulary, and discipline.
Intermediate/Advanced Ballet
Designed to increase the student's vocabulary, proper execution of ballet positioning, body
placement, flexibility, and center exercises. Conditioning is introduced as a
supplement to ballet training. Low impact exercises are taught to isolate and discover muscles that are used for ballet technique. Pre-pointe exercises are introduced. Designed to strengthen ballet technique, musicality, pointe work, and
different classical ballet solo variations.
Modern Dance
This course utilizes basic concepts of Graham/Horton modern techniques. Students become familiar with body patterns and functions as these relate to technique, fortifications, contraction, release, use of breath, and floor movement, leaps and turn. The class consists of floor work, barre and center. Students may enroll in 2-3 classes per week to achieve an optimal level of physical conditioning.
Jazz
This class introduces dancers to the basic fundamentals of stylized dance. Classes are structured to develop strength, coordination, flexibility, and poise and to provide the dancer with a working knowledge of basic movement technique. Jazz dance examines popular movement particular to the African American culture.
African/Modern Dance
This class provides students with a fundamental understanding of the discipline, structure, and protocol of West African Dance. Students will gain an understanding of their movement potential from dances originating in West African and Caribbean countries. African aesthetic values will be examined to expose students to the socio-cultural foundations of African and African-American dance forms. Introduction to Katherine Dunham technique is taught.
Beginning Tap
This class is an introduction to this uniquely American art form. Tap investigates rhythm with seven basic “taps” (different ways of making a variety of tones by striking various parts of the foot on the floor). Other techniques to be covered use weight change and coordination, and will include “shuffle”, and “shim-sham.”
Intermediate Tap
Students must be able to demonstrate the basics covered in Beginning Tap . This class focuses on tightening and mastering technique while increasing speed and agility of movement. Introduces time step #1, drawbacks, turns, and more.
Hip Hop
Learn the latest Hip Hop dance techniques and moves while you learn basic dance skills. This class is for the Hip Hop generation who want to be known for their individual expressions.
Acrobatics
This art form is based on control, balance, and contortion. The acrobatic technique is performed in the circus. The performer demonstrates flexibility through using the body to create shapes.
Dance Fundamentals for Males
This class is for males ages 6 and older interested in dance. It is a blend of Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Modern dance techniques. The purpose is to cultivate dance skills and to teach about the performing persona of a male dancer. Young men also participate in activities that foster camaraderie with their peers.
Praise Dance
Basic modern dance techniques as well as the guiding spiritual principles and technique of Christian praise dancing are taught for both beginners and experienced praise dancers.
Modern/Jazz
Modern/Jazz
is an eclectic form of dance that introduces the Simmonson Technique.
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