At Yale's Morse Summer Music Academy, It's Extreme Music Every Day
Anyone who has ever wondered what it takes for a child to learn a musical instrument is invited to visit the Yale School of Music Morse Summer Academy this month, where more than 50 New Haven public school students are immersed in an intensive four-week course of musical instruction.
The public is welcome to observe classes from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. every weekday, from August 3 –18, and to attend student performances and workshops held at 3:30 p.m. on August 4, August 11, and August 16 in Morse Recital Hall of Sprague Hall, 470 College Street.
Members of the press are invited to join parents for a final graduation concert and presentation on August 18, at 3:30 p.m. in Sprague Hall.
Now in its second year, the comprehensive program, which runs through August 19, includes classes five days a week and requires students to do a minimum of four hours of music every day. Recognizing that family commitment and support is crucial to a child’s musical development, Morse Academy also incorporates into the curriculum twice weekly workshops for parents and guardians on issues related to children’s musical education.
The program is open to motivated New Haven public school students from grades 5 through 11 who play woodwind, brass, strings, percussion, or piano. Applicants for the Morse Summer Music Academy must exhibit musical accomplishment, enthusiasm, and a record of steady work habits, including at least a “B” average on their NHPS report card. The first Academy began in 2010 with 42 participants from 10 schools, and this year 51 students from 14 schools are enrolled in the program.
Working through the Yale School of Music—a national leader in the effort to improve teaching of music in public schools—the Academy offers students who have completed the summer program many musical opportunities throughout the academic year, including master classes, private lessons, and free attendance at Yale School of Music performances.
If you are interested in attending any of Morse Summer Academy’s classes, workshops or performances, please contact Dana Astmann at 203-436-1556.
