Mason Gross School of the Arts Extension Division Preparatory School

 

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The Mason Gross Preparatory School seeks to nurture the innate artistic abilities of children from infancy through high school.  Classroom, ensemble, and private instruction by our distinguished faculty provide a rich environment for development and growth.  Classes and lessons are offered on weekday afternoons and evenings and throughout the day on Saturdays. 

Music and Dance courses are 15 weeks (except where indicated).  Visual Arts courses are 12 weeks.

Fall Semester: September 14 - January 16

Spring Semester: January 25 - May 15

Summer Semester: June 7 – August 21

Music          Young Artist Program             Online Courses             Indian Music    

                                       Dance                                        Visual Arts

 

Music

Music Together®

Music and Movement Classes for Infants, Toddlers, Preschoolers, and the Adults Who Love Them

Introduce your child to the joy of music in this internationally recognized, research-based program.  Music Together classes are based on the recognition that all children are musical and can learn to sing in tune, keep a beat, and participate with confidence in the music of our culture, provided that their early environment supports such learning.  Music Together brings families together by providing a rich musical environment in the classroom and by facilitating family participation in spontaneous music activity at home.

$185 for first child, $50 discount for siblings! 

Tuition includes:

Music and Your Child: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers

Two copies of the class CD

Illustrated songbook with family activities to enjoy at home

Saturdays 9:15-10: a.m. or 10:15-11 a.m.

FREE sample class on January 9.  Call 732-932-8618 to sign-up!

10-week Fall Session starts September 26

10-week Winter Session starts January 16

10-week Spring Session starts April 17

6-week Summer Session starts July 17

Music Togther art & logo design copyright 1992-2009 Music Together LLC.  Music together was developed by the center for Music and Young Children, Princeton, NJ.  Music Together, CMYC, and Center for Music and Young Children are registered trademarks.

  

Young Maestros (Ages 4 & 5)

Saturdays, 9-9:40 a.m. or 9:45-10:25 a.m. (continuing students); Saturdays 10:30-11:10 a.m. (new students)

A perfect introduction to music and piano study for ages 4-5.   Students learn basic musical skills (steady beat, rhythm, note values, and note names) through songs, games, and keyboard experiences.  The small class size (maximum 6 students per class) ensures each child receives individualized instruction and develop a firm foundation for musical growth in preparation for beginning private music lessons.

Instructor: Dr. Zoe Doll

Tuition: $325 per semester (includes books)

Suzuki Violin (Ages 4-9)

This program for beginning violinists and violists includes individual lessons and group classes in which students interact musically and motivate one another while developing valuable ensemble skills.  Using Suzuki principles, the teacher creates an atmosphere of love and encouragement for music, which is then nurtured at home through parental involvement in practicing and music-making.

10 weeks of group classes: $150

15 weeks of 15-minute private lessons: $217.50

15 weeks of 30-minute private lessons: $435

Private Music Instruction

Individual instruction with our faculty of conservatory-trained musicians is available in 30, 45, and 60-minute sessions in voice, piano, violin, viola, cello, string/electric bass, flute, clarinet, oboe/English horn, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, French horn, baritone, tuba, guitar, drum set, and percussion.  All instructors are dedicated professional musicians with advanced degrees in music.  Faculty bios are available on the web.  Lessons are scheduled by arrangement between 2-9 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturdays.  We offer 15-week fall and spring semesters and a flexible 10-week summer semester. 

 

To request placement in our private lesson program, new students may submit a Request for Private Instruction Form or contact the Extension Division office.  Each student’s musical and personal needs are taken into consideration during placement process.  Teaching styles and availability vary, so 30-minute trial lessons are recommended and available for $29. 

Percussion Instruction

Private percussion lessons focus on the development of snare drum, keyboard percussion, timpani, and drum set skills.  The curriculum is designed to assist students in becoming well rounded percussionists and musicians, concentrating on three aspects: hands (technique), eyes (reading ability), ears (listening skills).  Study with the members of Exit 9 Percussion Group (Ensemble-in-Residence) is available during private percussion lessons and via the Rutgers Youth Percussion Ensemble.

 

Composition Instruction

Private instruction is available to all levels.  Students explore various compositional techniques through a variety of exercises, as well as through listening and analysis.    

 

Private Lesson Tuition (per semester)

30-minute weekly lessons: $435 ($29 per lesson)

45-minute weekly lessons: $652.50 ($43.50 per lesson)

1 hour weekly lessons: $870 ($58 per lesson)

 

There is a surcharge for private study with Mason Gross college faculty members.  Payment plans are available. 

 Music Theory

All Preparatory School students have the opportunity to enrich their musical training by studying the fundamental structure of music.  Small weekly classes are available for students in grades 1-12.   Study is graded and students are assigned homework.  As developing a theoretical understanding is essential in establishing a firm foundation for musical growth, music theory is a required component of the Young Artist Program.  Theory courses are taught by Paul Undreiner, Ph.D.

Tuition: $275 per semester

 

First Theory (Grades 1-2)

Saturdays 9-9:40 a.m.

Students are introduced to the basic concepts of music theory through games, activities and projects.  Emphasis is placed on learning how to read pitches on bass and treble staffs and on development of basic rhythmic and sight-singing skills.

Grades 3-4

Saturdays 12:20-1:00 p.m.

A beginning music theory class that introduces the basic concepts of music theory and ear-training through games, activities and projects.  Students sharpen their note reading abilities and learn introductory scales, rhythms, and music terminology.

Grades 5-6

Saturdays 10:40-11:25 a.m.

A late elementary music theory class that prepares students for junior high level work in the field.  Students study scales, rhythm, musical terminology, basic chords, and ear-training.

Grades 7-8

Saturdays 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

A junior high school level music theory class that prepares students for high school level study in the field.  Students learn basic intervals and voice-leading, increase their knowledge of chords and scales, and polish ear-training skills.

Grades 9-12

Saturdays 9:40-10:30 a.m.

A high school level music theory class that prepares students for more advanced work in the field.  Subjects include scales, chords, voice-leading, intervals, analysis, and ear-training.

Performing Ensembles

Chamber Music

Explore new repertoire while building valuable ensemble skills.  Chamber Music is open to all instruments.  Chamber ensembles (duos, trios, and quartets) rehearse weekly October thru May under the guidance of Mason Gross Extension Division faculty.  Placement auditions for the program are held on the first two Saturdays of the fall semester.  Students are placed into small groups based on age and level by the director, in consultation with the faculty.  Assignments may change mid-year to allow for a change in instrumentation, repertoire, or coach.  Chamber ensembles perform at the end-of-semester recitals and additional public performance opportunities are available.

Tuition: $275 per semester

Saxophone Ensemble

Thursday evenings

Coached by Mason Gross faculty member Dr. Paul Cohen, members of the saxophone ensemble explore original and transcribed music while developing greater tonal, technical, and instrumental control.  Membership is by audition with Dr. Cohen.  Those interested should call the Extension Division office.

Tuition: $350 per semester

Rutgers Youth Percussion Ensemble

Saturdays Noon-2:00 p.m., November-May

Percussion Ensemble brings the percussion section from the back of the stage to front and center.  It gives percussion students the opportunity to explore a wide variety of musical settings including traditionally performed literature and styles, arrangements and adaptations of well known composers, contemporary and cutting edge music by emerging names, world/roots music, novelty music, and performance art.  Exposure to all of these styles, combined with the demands of performing chamber music makes percussion ensemble a vital component of every percussionist’s education.  The ensemble is directed by Peter James Saleh and coached by members of the prestigious Exit 9 Percussion Group, Ensemble-in-Residence.

Tuition: $475 per semester

Exit 9 Percussion Group, Ensemble-in-Residence

Kenneth Riehman, Peter James Saleh, Mike Ramsey, and Britton Matthews

 

Jazz Combo

Mondays, 7:30-9:00 p.m.

During small group sessions students study, arrange, and perform works from the standard jazz repertoire.  Members are encouraged to develop their own unique and group sound by fusing creative, artistic, and technical abilities.  Combo director, Paul Bonnel, guides the students through improvement of improvisation skills.  Jazz combos meet every other Monday, perform at fall and spring recitals, and may have additional opportunities for public performance.  Open to all instruments and ability levels, although basic proficiency is desirable. 

Tuition: $275 per semester

Rutgers Children’s Choir

Rhonda Hackworth, Artistic Director

Wednesdays 5:45-7 p.m.

The Rutgers Children’s Choir is a treble voice choir dedicated to providing age-appropriate vocal training for children in grades 3-8. Now in its 16th year, the choir provides an opportunity for young singers from central New Jersey to perform choral music with peers who share an interest in singing.  There are two choirs within the program:

Choristers – children in grades 3-5

Chorale – children in grades 6-8

Each is based on the developmental and musical needs of the children. The two choirs perform separately as well as a combined ensemble.

Participation in the choir is open to children with unchanged voices in grades 3-8. Membership in the Rutgers Children’s Choir is by audition. Auditions evaluate pitch matching as well as rhythmic and melodic reading abilities. These auditions determine choir placement according to age, musical skills, and vocal development. Perfection is not required!  To inquire about audition dates and times, call the Extension Division office or refer to our website.  Those interested in auditioning should call the Mason Gross Extension Division office to reserve an audition slot.

Membership: $275 per year; $175 to join mid-year.

Auditions for the spring semester will be held on Monday, January 11 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.  Call 732-932-8618 to reserve an audition timeslot.

Click here for more information about the Rutgers Children's Choir.

Young Artist Program

This comprehensive program is available to talented students (ages 8-18) enrolled in private instruction through the Mason Gross Preparatory School.  Entry into the program is reserved for dedicated students with a desire for advanced and intensive musical training.  In addition to weekly private lessons, Young Artists learn from and perform for master teachers, including Mason Gross college faculty members, via workshops, master classes, and clinics held several times each year.  They also receive informal performance opportunities during scheduled performance/musicianship classes, in preparation for recitals and jury examinations. To participate in the program, students must be nominated by their private lesson instructor or schedule a placement interview with the Director of the Extension Division and must be enrolled in a music theory class and a performing ensemble.  Study is evaluated, as students are awarded grades for their private lessons and music theory classes and transcripts are available for enhancement of college applications. 

Program Components

 

-Private Instruction

Weekly private lessons with Mason Gross Extension Division faculty

-Music Theory

A crucial component of every young musician’s training, music theory classes provide insight into the structure of music and aid in the development of essential musicianship skills, including ear-training.

-Ensemble Participation

Students experience the joy of performing with others while exploring new repertoire and developing valuable ensemble skills.  Young Artists may choose to enroll in our Chamber Music program or any of our other performing ensembles.  

-Performance Class

Students gain performance experience and exposure to new repertoire, while developing listening skills in a small group setting.  Coaches create a supportive environment in which students can “practice” performing and receive feedback from other students and faculty to assist them in preparation for future performances and auditions.  Performance classes are available twice each semester. 

-Workshops/Master Classes

Guest artists and Mason Gross college faculty present workshops and master classes several times during the year.  Young Artists are given opportunities to perform for these master artists and faculty members in the master class setting.

-Jury Examinations

Graded evaluations that occur toward the end of each semester.  Young Artists perform for a panel of faculty members who provide constructive feedback on student progress. 

-Recitals

Program participants are encouraged to perform their most polished repertoire on student recitals each semester.

 

 

Enrollment Fee: $200

This fee covers participation in performance classes, workshops/masterclasses, and jury examinations.  Students register for private instruction, music theory, and ensemble participation separately. 

Online Courses for College Credit

 07:700:101 Introduction to Music (3 credits)

This online course introduces basic concepts for intelligent listening to all kinds of music. Emphasis is on aspects of sonority, rhythm, melody, harmony, and structure. An interdisciplinary component explores the role of music in our culture and in other cultures. Since the course is wholly online, it is both reading and listening intensive. The course will be divided into units, with exams at the end of each. There is a discussion forum, and participation in it is mandatory. The time requirements for the course can be estimated at four to six hours per week.

No previous musical experience is required, but the course is restricted to high school students ages 14 and above.  Students register as visiting students through school 80 (continuing studies)  www.continuingstudies.rutgers.edu.  Please call the Extension Division office at 732-932-8618 for special permission numbers.

Tuition: High school students only pay 80% tuition.  Student fees apply.

Tuition (-20%): $718 (based on 2008-2009 academic year; subject to change)

Spring 2010 registration deadline: January 15

Classes begin January 19

07:700:103 Introduction to Music Theory (3 credits)

This online course introduces basic rudiments of music: intervals, scales, key signatures, modes, chords, rhythm, and meter. Time is also spent on the development of aural skills.  The course is wholly online.  There are approximately 2-3 hours of reading and lectures for each weekly unit, and 1-2 hours of homework for each of the 10 units.  There is also a 90-minute midterm and a 3 hour final.  No previous musical experience is required, but the course is restricted to high school students ages 14 and above.  Students register as visiting students through school 80 (continuing studies)  www.continuingstudies.rutgers.edu.  Please call the Extension Division office at 732-932-8618 for special permission numbers.

Tuition: High school students only pay 80% tuition.  Student fees apply.

Tuition (-20%): $718 (based on 2008-2009 academic year; subject to change)

Spring 2010 registration deadline: January 15

Classes begin January 19

  

Indian Music

 

Indian Music
Group instruction with our highly accomplished faculty is available in three styles of singing (Carnatic classical, Hindustani classical, and popular), two styles of drumming (Tabla and Mridangam) and four styles of instrumental music (Sitar, Violin, Harmonium and Bansuri flute).  Study can be pursued by both sexes of all ages.  No prior experience is required for the beginner level.  Special permission and/or an evaluation is required for entry into intermediate and advanced groups.

Tuition: $485 per semester

 

Carnatic Classical Voice

Carnatic music is a system of music associated with South India, roughly confined to four modern states: Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. It emphasizes the rendering of elaborate written compositions. These compositions are deeply meaningful and are written to be sung. 

The basic elements of Carnatic music are sruti (relative musical pitch), swara (musical sound of a single note), raga (mode or melodic formulae), and tala (rhythmic cycles).  Fundamentals are best learned through a systematically designed curriculum under the guidance of a professionally trained teacher.  Our distinguished faculty comes with a rich musical background and advanced training that enables them to teach this art form with great ease and finesse.

Instructor: Asvin Bhogendra

Beginning Group (All Ages): Saturday 9-10 a.m.
Intermediate Group (All Ages): Saturday 10-11 a.m.

Advanced Group (All Ages): Saturday 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Instructor: Kalyani Ramani

Beginning Group (Ages 14-Adult): Thursday 6-7 p.m.

Intermediate Group (Ages 14-Adult): Thursday 7-8 p.m.

Advanced Group (Ages 14-Adult): Thursday 8-9 p.m.

  

Hindustani Classical Voice

Hindustani singing, coming from north India, is primarily focused on Khayal singing, a relatively modern style, highly improvisatory in nature. The Bandishes or compositions, mostly in Hindi language with a mixture of Urdu and other regional languages, uses different ragas and Talas in a wide range of tempi. The thematic content varies from pure devotion to romanticism.  

Training in this style of singing begins with the practice of scales, orientation of vocal technique, the study of Khayal and Tarana Bandishes in different tempi with their embellishments and ornamentations, and some of the semi-classical styles such as Thumri and Dadra.

Instructor: Mitali Banerjee Bhawmik

Beginner Group: Tuesday 6-7 p.m.

Intermediate Group: Tuesday 7-8 p.m.

Advanced Group: Tuesday 8-9 p.m.

  

Popular Voice
Indian popular music encompasses songs that are commonly heard in India, popularized by the media and used in movies, social gatherings, temples and other places of public gathering. These songs of wide variety are written in different Indian languages and cover a wide range of topics, including devotion, patriotism, and romance. Their elements are drawn from classical, regional, folk, and even non-Indian types of music. They are set to simple rhythmic cycles and are learnt and performed with the accompaniments of Harmonium and Tabla. In presentation, other instruments are also added, as appropriate.

Instructor: Sanghamitra Chatterjee

Beginner Group: Wednesday 6-7 p.m.

Intermediate Group: Wednesday 7-8 p.m.

Advanced Group: Wednesday 8-9 p.m.

 

Sitar

Sitar, one of the most popular North Indian string instruments, is long-necked and fretted.  It is played with a wired plectrum, usually worn on the index finger of the right hand, while the left hand fingers run across the frets or pull the strings.  Lessons combine advice on technique and intonation with the study of compositions in different Hindustani ragas and talas and their embellishments and ornamentations.

Instructor: Hidayat Khan

Beginner Group: Wednesday 6-7 p.m.

Intermediate Group: Wednesday 7-8 p.m.

Advanced Group: Wednesday 8-9 p.m.

 

Violin

Indian violin is quite different in tuning, technique, and tone from western violin. It is used to imitate the voice, playing compositions from vocal repertoire.  Lessons dedicated to Carnatic violin combine advice on technique and intonation with the study of compositions in different ragas and talas and their embellishments and ornamentations.

Instructor: Arun Ramamurthy

Beginner Group:  Monday 6-7 p.m.

Intermediate Group: Monday 7-8 p.m.

Advanced Group: Monday 8-9 p.m.

 

Harmonium

Harmonium is an acoustic keyboard with a wind chamber and keys. While one hand is engaged in bellowing air into the chamber, the other hand plays the keyboard. It is primarily used in Hindustani classical music and non-classical music.  Lessons dedicated to the study Hindustani repertoire combine advice on technique with the study of compositions in different ragas and talas and their embellishments and ornamentations.

 Instructor: Kedar Naphade

Beginner Group: Saturday 9-10 a.m.

Intermediate Group: Saturday 10-11 a.m.

Advanced Group: Saturday 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

 

Bansuri Flute

This Indian bamboo flute comes in different sizes, according to the tonic.  Lessons are dedicated to the study Hindustani repertoire and combine advice on technique and intonation with the study of compositions in different ragas and talas and their embellishments and ornamentations.

Instructor: Steve Gorn

Beginner Group: TBD

Intermediate Group: TBD

Advanced Group: TBD

Tabla

This two-piece kettledrum with a high and low represents the North Indian rhythmic system. Tabla are played simultaneously with the fingers and palms of both hands producing a variety of tones and intricate rhythmic patterns.  Lessons combine advice on technique and intonation with the study of rhythmic compositions in the context of different Hindustani rhythmic cycles. 

Instructor: Dibyarka Chatterjee

Beginner Group: Wednesday 6-7 p.m.

Intermediate Group: Wednesday 7-8 p.m.

Advanced Group: Wednesday 8-9 p.m.

Private lessons with Samir Chatterjee are also available.  Call to inquire.

 

Mridangam

Mridangam is a barrel-shaped drum with a high and a low end and is played simultaneously at both ends with fingers and palms producing a variety of tones and intricate rhythmic patterns. It is the key representative of the Carnatic rhythmic system.

Lessons combine advice on technique and intonation with the study of rhythmic compositions in the context of different Carnatic rhythmic cycles.

Instructor: Kumar Kanthan

Beginner Group: Friday 6-7 p.m.

Intermediate Group: Friday 7-8 p.m.

Advanced Group: Friday 8-9 p.m.

Indian Rhythm Class

Study one of the most advanced and sophisticated systems in the world.  A unique blend of complexity and beauty, its ancient concepts are kept alive through regular practice, while the integration of new ideas keep it fresh and vibrant.  Numerical and other innovative methods are adopted in teaching the principles and compositions from North and South Indian traditions.  Participants learn to apply the principles to create their own compositions through harmonic progression.  The class is open to all students of music, regardless of instrument.  This is a unique opportunity for analytical study of Indian rhythm without having to study an Indian instrument.

Instructor: Samir Chatterjee

Group class: Tuesday 4-5 p.m.

Tuition: $300 semester

Dance

 

Why should your child dance?  Dance engages the whole person through simultaneous moving, thinking, and feeling, thus enhancing your child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development. 

 

The Lily Schrager Program in Creative Dance (Boys and Girls Ages 3-8)

Ages 6-8: Saturdays, 9:15-10 a.m.

Ages 3-5: Saturdays, 10:15-11 a.m.

Our creative dance program gives children the opportunity to explore their artistic and creative capacities in a supportive, non-competitive, and age-appropriate setting.  Creative movement enables children to perceive and communicate who they are while developing self-confidence, social skills, and motor skills through enriching class experiences with peers.  Both boys and girls flourish in creative movement programs! 

Tuition per semester: $225 for first child, $50 discount for siblings!

Fusion Dance (Boys and Girls Ages 9-adult)

Ages 9-12: Thursdays, 7-7:45 p.m.

Ages 13-Adult: Thursdays, 7:50-8:45 p.m.

Experience African, Modern, Hip Hop, and Creative Dance in an exciting format.  Professional dancer and Mason Gross faculty member, Kimani Fowlin, guides her classes in creating dances to polyrhythmic music that inspires and invigorates, with live musicians accompanying on various percussion instruments and African drums.  Participants get a complete workout while learning simple movement combinations.  Special focus is given to rhythm and bringing out the individuality of each performer. 

Tuition per semester: $255 for first family member, $50 discount for additional family members!

 

 Indian Classical Dance
Group instruction with our highly accomplished faculty is available on three forms of Indian classical dance: Bharatanatyam, Kathak and Orissi. All three styles of dances are significantly different in posture, movement, repertoire and costume and can be pursued by both sexes and all ages.

Tuition: $395 per semester

Bharatanatyam (Ages 13-adult)

Beginning Group: Wednesday from 6-7 p.m.

Study one of the oldest styles of Indian classical dance with Ms. Sudha Devulapalli.  Bharathanatyam, originating from the temples, is practiced mostly in the southern part of India and the songs are based on the Carnatic style of music. The elaborate and gorgeous costume is based on Sari, Jewelry, flowers and a light ankle bell. The technical expertise is embalmed in the overall act of expression highlighting ‘Bhakti’ or devotion.

 

Introduction to Natya, an Ancient Dance Tradition (Ages 6-12)

Saturdays 9-9:50 a.m.

Students new to Indian classical dance learn a wide vocabulary of basic movements as well as travelling steps common to Bharathanatyam. Students work on basic technique with full break-down and step-combinations that improve posture, flexibility, balance/grace and muscle isolation/control. Each week builds on these movements toward development of a full dance. The class is taught under the supervision of Ms. Ramya Ramnarayan by well-trained dancers who have a clear, in-depth understanding of the principles of movement and the process of movement education.

Advanced Class on Abhinaya, the Art of Mime and Expression (Ages 15 and above)

Saturdays 10-11 a.m.

Celebrated dancer from India, Ms. Ramya Ramnarayan offers a unique, specialized class focusing on Abhinaya.  Abhinaya is an inseparable component of Natya, the ancient Indian system of dramaturgy. The word Abhinaya means to carry the spectator towards the meaning of a poem or song. Abhinaya can be called as a vehicle of Bharathanatyam through which the onlooker experiences the particular emotions of the dramatic character and in turn leads him/her towards the ultimate bliss. Abhinaya does not imply just acting, miming or facial expressions. The term applies to all related aspects of dramatics which contribute in conveying the poetic content of drama to the viewers. Students are taught new Abinaya repertoire and the four major types of Abhinaya, (Angika, Vacika, Aharya and Sattvika) are introduced in this course. Dancers are chosen by audition.  Five years consistent dance training in Bharathanatyam recommended. 

 

Kathak

Beginner Group: Monday 6-7 p.m.

Intermediate Group: Monday 7-8 p.m.

Advanced Group: Monday 8-9 p.m.

Kathak is the dance-art of story-telling, originating out of the Mughal courts.  It is practiced mostly in the Northern part of India. Its repertoire is from Hindustani music and the costume combines Hindu (long shirt/blouse on top of dhoti or ghagra) and Islamic traditions (long shirt or blouse on top of churidar), jewelry, and heavy ankle bells. The emotional range of the repertoire covers romance to devotion.  This is a tremendous opportunity to learn from Ms. Archana Joglekar Muley.

 

Odissi

Beginner Group: Friday 6-7 p.m.

Beginner II: Friday 7-8 p.m.

Intermediate Group: Friday 8-9 p.m.

Ms. Bani Ray instructs students in this classical temple dance from the north eastern province of Orissa. Its traditions have been carried through by the Devadasis, the servants of gods.  The postures are adopted mostly from the sculptures of the Konark Sun temple. The songs in Oriya language are based on classical ragas using some rhythmic cycles typical of Odissi and some of the movements are spectacular. 

 

 

 

 

Visual Arts

All Visual Arts courses are 12-weeks.

Fall Semester: September 14-December 12

Spring Semester: January 25-April 24

Ceramics for Parent & Child (Ages 6-12)

Saturdays 9:30-11:30 a.m.

The perfect opportunity for a child and an adult to connect while working on both collaborative and independent projects.  Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and family friends are welcome!

Instructor: Amy Hartmann-Ohlson

Tuition: $350 per child

Materials fee: $65 per family

Drawing (ages 9-12)

Saturdays 1-3 p.m.

Anna Bushman engages her students in all aspects of drawing, making reference to meaning and narrative form.  Children explore art as conveyed in music and storytelling while utilizing a wide range of methods in abstract and figurative projects.

Tuition: $375 per semester

Materials: $45

Art for Kids (Ages 6 – 12)

Saturdays 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

With expert guidance, children use non-toxic and water-based materials to create artworks they can bring home and proudly share with friends and family.  Their confidence increases as kids learn basic art making techniques such as drawing, painting, lettering, printing, papermaking and photography while working to produce original T-shirt designs, personal notepaper, and other fun and exciting projects.  They learn the basic science of photography by creating photograms, the principles of printmaking through silk-screening, and the importance of paper to everyday life by learning to make it themselves.  Their artistic skills are honed by working in pen and ink, watercolor, and acrylic paint, and they learn about art by looking and discussing the professional works on view at the Mason Gross School Galleries and the Brodsky Center’s print and paper shop. 

Instructors:  Sandra Sewing and Allison Lindblom, Brodsky Center for Innovative Editions

Tuition: $325 per semester

Materials: $45

 

All About Color (Ages 13-18)

Saturdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Explore the world of color using water based paints and ready-made materials.  Discover how the eye synthesizes color, how colors interact with each other, what to expect when they are combined, and how to use a color wheel.  Learn how to mix and harmonize colors while creating original paintings, collage, and assemblage.   Develop basic color theory vocabulary, including terms such as primary, secondary, tertiary, hue, tint, and saturation.  No previous experience is necessary. 

Instructor: Leticia Luevanos

Tuition: $325 per semester

Materials: $45

Think Like a Designer (Ages 13-18)

Saturdays 12-2:30 p.m.

Become a visual problem-solver. Learn how to create items that are both functional and visually appealing. In this introduction to graphic design, students explore the basics of the design process as they work with materials and form to make their concepts reality. No previous experience required.  

Tuition: $375 per semester

Materials fee: $45

Software Essentials for Design (Ages 13-18)

Saturdays 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. (fall semester only)

Learn the essential tools and procedures that designers use on a day to day basis. The course provides an overview of Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign and explores how these programs interact.

Tuition: $420 per semester

Lab fee: $25

Publication Design

Saturdays 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. (spring semester only)

Become a more effective communicator.  In our information age, the ability to produce newsletters, websites, flyers, posters, or digital presentations is essential.  Participants learn how to organize information in clear, attractive, and compelling ways. InDesign is introduced as a means of producing well-organized publications quickly and efficiently.

Tuition: $425 per semester

Lab fee: $25

Papermaking (Ages 13-18)

Workshop to be determined.

This course is for those who love beautiful paper and are adventurous enough to create it themselves.  All levels are welcome to join in the fun and learn how to make and use this deceptively humble material that has played such an important role in history and remains integral to our daily lives.  Professional artists can learn a new technique to enhance or incorporate into their work, and teachers can find a new way to engage their students in hands-on workshops. This course covers the basics of papermaking, both Western and Asian style, and many techniques are taught, including using stencils, painting with paper pulp, embossing designs, and embedding interesting objects and materials into paper. Papermaking involves lots of water so bring your boots!

Instructor:  Anne McKeown and Lisa Switalski, Brodsky Center for Innovative Editions

Tuition: $325 per semester

Materials: $45

Silkscreen (Ages 13-18)

Workshop to be determined.

Learn the basics of silkscreen by using non-toxic water-based materials to create and reproduce your own prints.  You will learn how to use photosensitive emulsion and stencils, how to set up your equipment, mix color, and align (register) your screens to create a flawless image.  All levels of experience welcome.  Ink, emulsion, and a selection of paper provided. 

Instructor:  Kristyna Comer, Brodsky Center for Innovative Editions

Tuition: $325 per semester

Materials: $45

Mason Gross Preparatory School classes take place on the Douglass Campus of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey in New Brunswick, NJ.