Overview
This class is ideal for those who have always wanted to learn to play the piano. It’s never too late! No previous experience is required.
Students will learn proper hand position and posture necessary for efficient and comfortable piano playing. Basic music theory will be introduced to develop essential reading skills. Students will explore melodies and harmonies, develop a sense of rhythm, learn about different time signatures, and understand how to count and play various note values.
Come learn alongside your peers in a small group class setting with Teaching Artist, Dr. Ina Mirtcheva Blevins. This class is specifically designed to provide a relaxed and stress-free environment for beginner piano players.
Students are welcome to repeat this class multiple times, or join our Beginner Level 2 course until they are comfortable moving on to the Intermediate class. The instructor is prepared to encourage and work with students at different levels during this class.
Lesson Book and Class Materials provided.
Ages: 55+
Dates: Wednesdays, 10:15 – 11:15 am
February 14 – May 8, 2024 (11 weeks)
Skip Dates: March 6 & March 27, 2024
Tuition: $300
Location: Mason Community Arts Academy Building in Fairfax, VA
Program Faculty
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.
Ages 55+ Piano at MCAA
| Piano Level 1 | Piano Level 2 | Intermediate Piano | Private Lessons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provides a relaxed and stress-free environment for new piano players. | Provides a relaxed and stress-free environment for students who have experience with piano beyond Beginner Level 1. | Provides a relaxed and stress-free environment for intermediate piano players beyond the Level 1 or Level 2 Beginner Classes. | Improve your technique and repertoire, and enjoy music-making and performing with fellow students. |
Notes
- 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.