Soo Theatre Project strings instructors Maggie Twining, Dottie Case, and Benjamin Gulder have had a busy spring, summer, and now fall! These awesome teachers of violin, viola, cello and bass have been on the road in what could be called “a regional tour” sharing their passion for their craft with our local public and private schools.
They’ve been to nearly every school in the Eastern Upper Peninsula demonstrating these relatively unfamiliar instruments to the students. In fact, they provided the opportunity for students to hear, touch, feel, and play stringed instruments at their school visits.
The result has been astounding! Lincoln Elementary School, Washington Elementary School, Rudyard Elementary School, Soo Township Elementary School, Les Cheneaux Elementary School, the Pickford PAL Center and St. Mary’s Catholic School have all agreed to host after-school string classes. The Soo Theatre Project is working with Brimley and other communities to organize the after school programs in these areas as well.
If you are interested in providing this wonderful opportunity for your child, discuss it with your child’s principal and/or call the STP office as soon as possible. School classes are slated to begin very soon.
Just what is The Soo Theatre Project offering these students, and therefore, these parents, too? The after school program is for students in grades 3-6 to learn in a small class size from three to eight students. It meets right after school at the student’s school for 45 minutes once a week for ten weeks. It is an introductory class so the speed of progress will depend on the students.
Stringed instruments come in all sizes so it’s important to have students “fitted” to have the correct size instrument. Not having the correct size is like trying to run in size 13 running shoes when size five is really what’s needed. It just doesn’t work. Correct sizing is important. One of the string teachers will be happy to help determine what size instrument your child should have.
We have a new resource for stringed instruments right here in Sault Sainte Marie! Nina Woodgate moved here two years ago from Illinois where she owned a violin shop. Nina is able to assist with instrument rentals and also has other string supplies on inventory in her home. It’s a one-stop opportunity! Previously, students had to resort to calling a store in Ann Arbor and wait for delivery. Welcome to the Soo, Nina!
Not only does the Soo Theatre offer stringed instrument lessons, but it also offers piano, voice, harp, woodwinds, choir, band, art, tap dance, and ukulele opportunities. So much goes on at STP all year long. Call the office for more information such as:
Group Piano Class. Instructor Ronda McGreevy will be teaching piano classes for beginners (ages 8-10) and for the older beginner (ages 11 to adult) in a fun group setting. Group piano is a perfect way to try out the instrument in a stress-free social environment. Class size is limited, so call soon to reserve your spot.
Or, how about the upcoming Arty Parties with the wonderful, patient, talented, and local artist Randy Krause? Try painting with Randy and watch your fear about this art melt into relaxed joy! October 10, 17, and 22 are the next Arty Parties. Mondays, October 10 (acrylics) and 17 (watercolor) are for adults from 7-9 pm at The Soo Theatre Project. Saturday, October 22 from 1-3 pm is for kids! Register with the STP office, then just show up because all supplies are provided for you.
Vocal Performance Class. Soo Theatre’s Artistic director and resident opera singer Karen Hughes Beacom will lead two vocal performance classes this fall. The Wednesday class from 4-5pm will be geared towards the young singer. Students enrolled in private lessons can take the additional course for a discounted price. An additional class will be offered on Thursday from 2-3pm for adults and homeschooled students.
Group lessons and classes are a great way to learn at a fraction of the cost of a private lesson. Our classes all provide quality instruction to our students who are not able to enroll in a one on one session or just want to try out something new. The after school programs are especially geared to this arts exploration.
The Soo Theatre Project is a community based family arts exploration organization located in the heart of Sault Sainte Marie, MI. There’s always something for everyone at The Soo Theatre Project all year long. Call STP’s office at 906-632-1930 for more information. Or, visit at 534 Ashmun Street downtown Sault Sainte Marie, MI. Or, like us on Facebook at Soo Theatre Project, Inc. and receive daily updates.
