New music classes plus summer sessions, camps at WCA

Wayne Center for the Arts will offer a bevy of camps, mini-camps and classes this summer. Programs are available for students of all ages and include both traditional offerings and workshops in visual arts, clay, dance, music and theater. To explore the full list of classes and camps, visit www.WayneArtsCenter.org.

WCA offers both weeklong day camps for children and classes that last for multiple sessions. Camps are a way for artists to dig deeper into a particular medium such as clay, visual arts or dance. Classes are offered for all age groups in visual arts and clay, and new classes are being offered for all ages in music.

Beth Negro was appointed the music coordinator at the beginning of 2024 and has been working behind the scenes to develop new classes and opportunities in music.

“I’ve spoken with music teachers from around the county to see what is lacking in our area so that we can fill that niche,” Negro said. “We’re offering classes for a wide range of ages, but we’re especially looking to develop the musical skills of teens and adults who want to enrich their lives through music.”

WCA recently expanded its private music lesson options in anticipation of developing a more robust music program. Students age 8 and older can now take private lessons in strings and piano while older students can perfect their skills in low brass (11 and up), guitar (12 and up) and voice (13 and up). In addition to private lessons, group classes in guitar, piano and voice are offered.

Besides hands-on music classes, WCA also will offer Music Theory, and instructor Mary Deauclaire will offer a class in jazz appreciation called Diggin’ into Jazz. Students will dig deep into the lives and times of renowned jazzers and their music, using stories and legends, archival recordings, videos, and photos. The class will discuss what they hear and find ways to listen and appreciate jazz more broadly. This class is offered for age 16 and up.

Children also are encouraged to delve into music this summer with classes for youngsters like Baby Bop (age 10-23 months), Toddler’s Makin’ Music (24-35 months) and Preschool Rock (age 3-5).

Older kids can connect to music through Eurythmics with Creativity and Play taught by Megan Mowrer. In this workshop children will advance their skills in musicianship, ear training and nuance through music and movement. The students will sing, use instruments and use movement to develop musicianship and enhance the study and/or appreciation of music in the classroom and in life.

“Summer is a great time to try something new,” Negro said. “Whether it’s music, visual arts, clay or dance, we all like to explore creativity during this time of the year.”