The State University of New York at Fredonia School of Music announces exciting musical opportunities for students of all ages through the Musical Journeys Program. This new community outreach project offers private music lessons, large ensemble participation and summer music camps on the SUNY Fredonia campus.
 
The Musical Journeys Program is the result of the School of Music’s commitment to outreach and to expanding and deepening its involvement in the community. The program provides experiences in the creative arts that will stimulate learning skills, enhance self-esteem, provide a sense of accomplishment and reward, and enrich an appreciation for the arts.
 
"Musical Journeys is SUNY Fredonia's long-awaited program specifically aimed at helping the surrounding community gain experience and education directly from our well-known School of Music," said Dr. Karl Boelter, Director of the School of Music. "Music and musical activities are a part of everyone's life, and we wish to open the doors of Mason Hall to people who aren't necessarily our regular students. The offerings of Musical Journeys are designed to help children and adults grow through music. Teaching is provided by carefully selected individuals, and there are plenty of opportunities to make music with peers. We expect that if you look through the offerings, you'll find a way your interests intersect."
 
Designed to accommodate people of all ages and skill levels, Musical Journeys will offer a wide range of instrumental and vocal instruction. As a private student, area residents have the unique opportunity to take lessons with the School’s top music students. Renowned for its achievements in performance and the quality of its curricula, the Fredonia School of Music selects only the best students in advanced stages of their degree programs to teach through the Musical Journeys Program. The recommended age for beginner-level private lessons for instrumentalists is 9-10; pianists, age 5; violinists, age 7 - 8; and vocalists, age 12. Lessons will begin in September and are available weekdays, evenings and Saturdays. Each semester includes instruction of 10 lessons, a recital and master class. Lessons with School of Music faculty and local professional teachers may also be available; please call for more information.
 
For those interested in ensemble performance, the Musical Journeys Program offers several options including the SUNY Fredonia University Chorus, a vocal ensemble comprised of students, faculty and community members, and the All-College Band, a musical group for students and local residents.
 
The Chautauqua Children’s Chorale is made up of three choirs for vocalists ranging from age 8 to 17. Auditions are required for membership.
 
The New Horizons Band of Western New York, is a newly-formed ensemble for "chronologically gifted" adults ages 50 and older to learn to play a musical instrument and enjoy making music in a comfortable, supportive and fun atmosphere. The most unique aspect to the New Horizons Band is that you can join even if you don’t play an instrument. No audition is required and no previous background in music is necessary, but those who already play (or who would like to "reacquaint" themselves with their instrument) are always welcome. For more information about the nationwide New Horizons Band Project, visit www.newhorizonsband.com.
 
Musical Journeys also offers several summer music program opportunities geared towards high school students, including the Fredonia Summer Band Camp, Fredonia Woodwind Quintet Chamber Music Camp, and Fredonia Summer Choral Music Program. Complete summer camp information is available online at www.fredonia.edu/som/camps.asp.
 
Musical Journeys registration fees vary with each program. To learn more about the Musical Journeys Program at SUNY Fredonia or to download a registration form, go to www.fredonia.edu/som/mjp. Questions can also be addressed to Program Director Marc Levy by calling (716) 673-4628. Completed registration forms should be mailed with payment to Musical Journeys Program, Office of Lifelong Learning, 2142 Fenton Hall, SUNY Fredonia, Fredonia, NY 14063.
 
To learn more about programs and events at SUNY Fredonia, visit the university online at www.fredonia.edu.