Overview
Our popular Piano Discoveries Level 1 and Level 2 classes have combined to offer families one convenient 30-week class!
Piano Discoveries is a fun and interactive group piano class designed specifically for kids ages 5 to 9 years old. This course is the perfect gateway for beginners who wish to explore the magical world of music through the piano. Engaging in activities, games, and creative exercises, we aim to nurture a love for music and provide a strong foundation in piano playing, fostering a sense of accomplishment and confidence in each student.
While Piano Discoveries is focused on piano, the class covers musical fundamentals that apply to any instrument. Upon completing the Piano Discoveries class, the student will be well-equipped to advance to one-on-one music lessons.
Course Objectives
- Discover the Piano. Students will be introduced to the piano and its layout, gaining an understanding of basic skills such as navigating the keyboard and how to produce sound.
- Fundamental Techniques. Learn proper hand position, finger dexterity, and posture necessary for efficient and comfortable piano playing. Basic music theory will also be introduced to develop essential reading skills.
- Rhythm. Students will develop a sense of rhythm, learn about different time signatures, and understand how to count and play various note values.
- Explore Melodies. Through playful exercises and learning familiar tunes, students will become comfortable with finding their way around the keyboard.
- Music Appreciation. Explore various music genres, composers, and iconic pieces to broaden the students’ musical horizons and inspire a deeper appreciation for the art of piano playing.
- Group Activities and Games. Engaging group activities and games will be incorporated to make the learning process enjoyable and interactive. This fosters teamwork, enhances creativity, and reinforces music concepts.
- Mini Recital. At the end of the course, students will have the opportunity to participate in a mini recital, where they can showcase their progress to family and friends.
Benefits
- Develops cognitive skills. Learning to play the piano improves memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities.
- Boosts creativity. Playing the piano allows students to express their emotions and thoughts through music, enhancing their creativity and imagination.
- Builds self-confidence. As students progress and achieve milestones, they will gain confidence in their abilities and accomplishments.
- Fosters a strong work ethic. Regular practice and commitment to learning the piano instill discipline and perseverance, essential qualities for personal growth.
Requirements
- No prior piano experience is required. This course is designed for complete beginners.
- Students should have access to a keyboard with at least 61 keys for practice at home at a minimum. An 88-key weighted keyboard or acoustic piano is recommended.
- A willingness to explore, learn, and have fun with music!
Ages: 5-6 & 7-9
Dates: September 13, 2023 – May 9, 2024 (30 Weeks)
Section 1: Ages 5-6, Wednesdays 4:45 – 5:30 pm
Section 2: Ages 7-9, Wednesdays 5:45 – 6:30 pm
Section 3: Ages 5-6, Thursdays 4:30 – 5:15 pm
Section 4: Ages 7-9, Thursdays 5:30 – 6:15 pm
Skip Dates:
Section 1-2: Nov 22, Dec 20, Dec 27, 2023 & Jan 3, Mar 27, 2024
Section 3-4: Nov 23, Dec 21, Dec 28, 2023 & Jan 4, Mar 28, 2024
Tuition: $675
Location: Mason Community Arts Academy Building in Fairfax, VA
Notes
- Families are asked to enroll students in the age group based on their age as of October 31, 2023.
- Families have the option to pay for this course in three installments with 1st payment due at registration. Remaining installments will be automatically charged on October 15 and November 15 (subject to $10 payment plan fee).
Section 1: Ages 5-6, Wednesdays 4:45 – 5:30 pm
Section 2: Ages 7-9, Wednesdays 5:45 – 6:30 pm
Section 3: Ages 5-6, Thursdays 4:30 – 5:15 pm
Section 4: Ages 7-9, Thursdays 5:30 – 6:15 pm
Program Faculty
Wednesday Sections
Dr. Ina Mirtcheva Blevins
Academy Teaching Artist
Dewberry School of Music Keyboard Skills Piano Faculty
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Dr. Ina Radeva Mirtcheva is a May 2014 graduate of George Mason University with a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Piano Performance. She has been a piano student of Dr. Anna Balakerskia for many years. Her doctoral dissertation research focused on the life and music of Isaac Miknovsky; Dr. Linda Monson served as her dissertation advisor and mentor. Having earned her Bachelor and Master of Music Degrees in Piano Performance from George Mason University, she subsequently earned a Master in Instrumental Collaborative Piano at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, where she studied piano and chamber music with James Tocco and Sandra Rivers. She has performed in numerous recitals as a soloist and with chamber music ensembles at venues including The Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian Institution, Werner Recital Hall, Prosels Castle, and The Lyceum. She has also performed internationally in Italy, Holland, Poland, Bulgaria, and Canada. In 2003, Ms. Mirtcheva was a Mason Concerto Competition winner and performed with the George Mason Symphony Orchestra. She has also participated in the Interharmony International Music Festivals in Soesterberg, Netherlands, in their 2003 and 2004 seasons, and in The Berkshires in 2007. In August 2009, she won the Schlern International Competition. In the summer of 2010, she performed in Poland as part of the Mozart Plus Festival, and in Vipiteno, Italy, at the Orfeo International Music Festival. Dr. Mirtcheva currently teaches keyboard skills and is a member of the applied piano faculty at Mason, as well as a faculty member of Mason Community Arts Academy.
Thursday Sections
Dr. Misha Tumanov
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Born in Ukraine, Misha Tumanov started his musical education in Costa Rica at the Instituto Superior de Artes and the Pre-College Program of the National University studying with Dr. Alexandr Sklioutovsky. After Mr. Tumanov graduated with honors from the National University at age seventeen, he continued his studies with Dr. Ray Kilburn at Ball State University, receiving a Master’s Degree and Artist Diploma in piano performance. Currently, Mr. Tumanov is a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Maryland, under Dr. Larissa Dedova, where he is recording works of the early Soviet Avant-garde, including Shostakovich, Prokofiev, Myaskovsky, Feinberg, and Roslavets.
Mr. Tumanov has taught in the DC area since 2010. Previously, he taught at the National University of Costa Rica, the Instituto Superior de Artes, and Ball State (both private lessons and group classes). Mr. Tumanov has also taught group classes at George Mason University and the University of Maryland. He has been often invited back to Costa Rica to work with students preparing for competitions and major performances, most notably the International Competition of Slav Music 2009 and 2010, where the students received two Second Prizes and one Third Prize. Mr. Tumanov’s students have performed at the Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, as well as prominent local venues.
Mr. Tumanov’s experience as a teacher ranges from 4-year-old beginners to advanced adults. Mr. Tumanov is passionate about guiding his students to find their own artistic voice and discovering the joy of music.
Mr. Tumanov has participated in masterclasses with such distinguished pianists and teachers as Gyorgy Sandor, Alexander Braginsky, Alexander Kobrin, Jerome Rose, and Jonathan Biss. In 2006 he released a CD featuring works by Bach, Mozart, Chopin, Schumann, and Rachmaninov.
Mr. Tumanov is a frequent performer at festivals and conferences, both as a solo and collaborative pianist, including the International Double Reed Society conference, MTNA, Piano Technicians Guild, and Orfeo Music Festival in Italy. He has been a featured soloist with the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine, the National and Youth Symphony Orchestras of Costa Rica, as well as the Ball State Symphony Orchestra. Mr. Tumanov has won numerous awards and competitions, including second place at the East-Central Division of the MTNA National Competition, the Indianapolis Matinee Musicale, and 1st Prize at the Pinault International Competition in New York.
In addition, Mr. Tumanov is the pianist/organist and Concert Series Coordinator at the United Christian Parish in Reston, VA.
Piano at MCAA
We recommend families interested in starting their piano journey at MCAA to first start with our Piano Discoveries class for ages 6-9. Students can then move on to Private Lessons for one-on-one study under our music faculty.
Students who desire further study can apply for our Summer Piano Academy and Summer Piano Academy Advanced programs.
| Piano Discoveries | Private Lessons | Summer Piano Academy | Summer Piano Academy Advanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ages 6-9 Students become familiar with the piano, learn keys, and musical alphabet. | All Ages & Levels Improve your technique and repertoire, and enjoy music-making and performing with other students. | Ages 7-12 A week of focused study where students receive private lessons, classes on music theory, masterclasses, and more. | Ages 12-18 For advanced piano students. Students receive private lessons, classes on music theory, masterclasses, and more. |
- Please note that group classes are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not reached.
- Be sure to check our policies and procedures regarding registration, withdrawals, refunds, and more for fall or spring group classes.
- All students will receive a Welcome Letter via email at least 1 week before the class starts with all necessary details.
- Online registration closes 2 business days before the first class, however space may still be available. Please contact academy@gmu.edu for more information. A $10 late registration fee may apply.
- For additional information, please contact the Academy at academy@gmu.edu.