Times Colonist

Summer Music Academies

for people who are passionate about music and theatre

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The long lazy days of summer are just around the corner. For adolescent­s, summer should be a magical time not only to rest and re-generate, but also to connect with friends, try new things and explore some creative pathways. This summer’s Music Academies at St. Michaels University School not only provide this, but also the chance to rehearse and perform in front of live audiences.

SMUS offers two unique summer academies for students who want to explore their passion for music. SummerBand is a chance to go beyond the traditiona­l band class, with three different options to choose from. SwitchBand is a two-week program designed for students with at least one year of band experience who would like to try a new instrument. The JazzBand workshop is for students who would like to experience jazz as part of a big band. Jazz Combos/Rhythm & Blues consists of groups of four to eight players who work in small ensembles that focus on improvisat­ion, rhythm and small group arrangemen­ts. These camps are a lot of fun, and a great way to kick off the summer, with classes starting right after Canada Day, on July 4.

The Musical Theatre Academy offers everything an aspiring actor would want – a chance to learn firsthand about auditionin­g, rehearsing, and performing. Instructio­n is aimed at enhancing performanc­e skills and learning about the developmen­t of a fulllength musical. Students will be taken through the audition and casting process, be assigned roles, and then will focus on vocals, microphone use, character developmen­t, stage presence and movement. The outcome is a series of showcase performanc­es as part of the Victoria Fringe Festival. Students will be performing the Broadway hit The Drowsy

Chaperone, winner of numerous theatre and drama awards, including five Tony Awards. Music Director Brooke Maxwell has just returned from his own successful run on Broadway, so will be sharing his experience and expertise with the young actors.

With expert instructor­s, small class sizes, and modern facilities, SMUS Summer Music Academies offer a fertile environmen­t for youth to flex their creative muscles. The Summer Music Academies are appropriat­e for students in grades six through 12. A limited number of bursaries are available.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR INFORMATIO­N ON THESE AND OTHER PROGRAMS: SUMMER MUSIC ACADEMIES: SMUS.CA/ACADEMIES OR CALL THE EDUCATION EXTENSION OFFICE AT 250-370-6120

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