Winter Session Student Portal
Permission Form
Please view and complete the Winter Session Permission form no later than Friday, January 7th. You will not be able to join any Winter Session activities without completing this form.
Lesson Scheduling
The Lesson Scheduling tool will be available by late December. You will use this tool to schedule three 30-minute lessons with your private teacher between January 9th-February 6th at your mutual convenience.
Electives and Group Activities
All sessions take place from 6:30-7:30 PM Central Time.
All sessions are optional; attend as many as you would like! Click the button below at 6:30 PM (CT) to join the elective sessions.*
General Interest
Thursdays at 6:30 PM Central Time
Suggested for any student grades 8-12 who want to expand their musical horizons!
These enrichment sessions are offered once every week between January 9 and February 11th. Every session is open to any instrument or voice, no prior experience necessary!
Week 1
January 13
From Stage Fright to Stage Presence with Dr. Hannah Leffler and Dr. Steph Frye-Clark
Introducing techniques and tools to becoming a fearless and confident performer.
Week 2
January 20
Intro to Composition with Dr. Benjamin Krause
Discover your creative voice and learn the basics of composing music with the instruction of a professional composer.
Week 3
January 27
Beginning Jazz Improvisation with Dr. Paul Morton
Come explore the language of jazz improvisation. Learn how to read and play through “chord changes”. All instruments and voices welcome. No previous jazz experience needed.
Week 4
February 3
Intro to Music Therapy with Dr. Sangeeta Swamy
Discover the stories and science behind the inspiring profession of music therapy. In this class, you will learn what music therapy is, its powerful therapeutic qualities, how to use music for your own stressors, and music therapy as a potential career path.
Week 5
February 17
Intro to Conducting with Dr. Kevin Sütterlin
Learn basic conducting patterns and methods for conducting both instrumental and choral ensembles.
College Prep
Sundays at 6:30 PM Central Time
Suggested for high school juniors and seniors who are interested or curious about music in college.
One session each week will cover a variety of practical topics to help you discern and prepare for music in college, whether you plan to major in music or not. Every session is open to any instrument or voice.
Week 1
January 9
Music Degrees: Explained
Should I study Music Performance or Music Education? What about Music Therapy? Hear from experienced professors and graduates of all of these degrees to make a more informed decision about what is right for you.
Week 2
January 16
Music Theory Primer
Most music degrees begin with a Music Theory placement exam. Learn what to expect and how to prepare for this exam to put your best foot forward!
Week 3
January 23
Auditions and Pre-Screenings
Take the stress out of your college audition process. Whether you are auditioning for a competitive place in a music degree program, or simply auditioning for a campus ensemble, learn how to meet requirements, set yourself apart, and let your unique skills shine.
Week 4
January 30
How to use a Music Degree IRL
What can you actually DO with a music degree? Do you need to get a Master’s Degree or Doctorate too? Join this panel discussion with working professionals who hold a variety of degrees in music and learn how they are used in career, vocation, and practice.
Week 5
February 6
Performance Class and Next Steps!
An opportunity to perform for your peers and instructors, and get encouragement and feedback! Following the performances, there will be a discussion on excellent pre-college opportunities that will prepare you to take your next big step.