01.14.26 10:30-12:00PM

Discovering Magic in melody 
Bring your favorite or difficult melody, and analyze, dissect, sing till you're satisfied. It is common practice to analyze the harmony and structure of music, June will apply analysis to melodic lines as well. In this way, one can look closer at the composer's intention. (He who wrote the work must know what's best) Beethoven used to sing the melodies of his compositions for hours, Rachmaninoff played melodies for hours on a piano. Join us in discovering your favorites!

02.11 10:30-12:00PM

Materials, Goals and Wishes for your First Year Piano Students

Jamie Shaak will talk about her parents’ series Piano Partners and Reading Writing and Rhythm This unique and inspiring method starts beginners off on the right track, no matter what age.  She will also bring materials and other books that she uses when starting the TEACHER / STUDENT / PARENT  powerful pyramid relationship.

03.11 10:30-12:00PM

Croon, Hum, or Warble: An Embodied Approach to Teaching Piano to Elementary Aged Students.
Come explore Kodály as a way to methodically teach musical concepts in order to transfer students' embodied learning to playing piano (and any other instrument, too). We will sing (or warble), play games, and apply concepts to a few specific, leveled songs. As a bonus, you’ll come away with a set of manipulatives!

04.08.26 10.30-12:00PM

Discover the Orchestra's Voice: An Introduction to Strings Instruments

Step into the vibrant, tactile world of string instruments with this hands-on workshop. We'll translate your deep understanding of music into the unique language of the violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Forget fixed pitches and pedals—here, you create the pitch with your ear, the tone with your touch, and the expression with your entire body.

You will learn the fundamental principles that govern all strings: how bowing technique is your "breath control," how the left hand finds pitch without keys, and how to produce everything from a whisper to a powerful crescendo. We’ll connect your existing knowledge of harmony, melody, and phrasing to the techniques that bring string music to life.

Rediscover the joy of making music in a new way, deepen your collaborative skills for chamber music, and gain a fresh perspective that will enrich your playing. No prior string experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to explore!

05.13.26 10:30-12:00PM

DAMTA Teachers: You are invited to perform following our end-of-year luncheon. We would be delighted to hear your musical selection.