MSMF 2024
Program Schedule
We are now offering afternoon and all day options to meet the demand for more learning and growth! See what would best fit YOUR needs!
Workshop Blurbs
Baroque Music Is Fun Pt 2” by Dr. Ka-Wai Yu
Have you ever used a baroque bow, attended a baroque orchestra concert or heard a viola da gamba being played? This is a lecture-demo about “HIP,” or historically-informed performance. If you attended last year’s session (Baroque Music is Fun – Part 1), this one will go more in-depth with more in-class playing together. The presentation will discuss the fun of learning about period instruments; the freedom to exploring Baroque ornamentation; some practical tips to play music with more authenticity; and lastly, online HIP resources and information available to everyone. Bring your instrument and participate in this fun learning session!
“Video Game and Film Music: A Second Link to the Past” by Dr. Jared Starr
Do you sometimes get burnt out with classical music? Do you find yourself wanting to play something you easily relate with such as music from a favorite movie or video game? In this workshop, we will do a second look after last year’s workshop to explore the origins of film/video game music in classical music and how it can enhance our excitement about classical music.
Performance Anxiety Pt. 2 by Dr. Erika Bright
“Rise and Shine: The energy we feel when we perform can be surprising and sometimes overwhelming. In this class we will talk about performance nerves, what happens in our minds and bodies, and how to use those big feelings to push you above anxiousness towards incredible performances!”
‘LIGHT’ Following the path to create my debut album
Kerstin Tenney shares her experience creating her debut album from commissioning new works, finding the right team, fundraising, recording with the English Symphony Orchestra, mastering at Abbey Road, album premiere concert, and marketing.
Making Money in Music Pt 2 by Dr. Carmen Hall
Have you (or your parents) wondered if you can make enough money in music? Yes! You can! We will talk about ways you can make money NOW using your music skills while building your resume and making you a better musician. We will also talk about all the creative ways the faculty at Mountain Springs Music Festival make money and what you can do in your future.
Alternative Style for Advanced String Players
Aaron Ashton returns to present the popular workshop teaching the basics of fiddling. Learn techniques, like chopping, shuffle bowings, ornamentation and improvisation.
“Making Money in Music” by Dr. Carmen Hall
Have you (or your parents) wondered if you make enough money in music? Yes! You can! We will talk about ways you can make money NOW using your music skills while building your resume and making you a better musician. We will also talk about all the creative ways the faculty at Mountain Springs Music Festival make money and what you can do in your future.
“The Bow Master: An exploration of the mastery of key violin/viola bow strokes” by Dr. Jared Starr
Foundational bow technique and refining of finger motion and leading it into key bow strokes such as detache, martele, and different forms of spiccato. Guide to bow shopping.
“Rehearsal Techniques for Ensembles” by Dr. Vedrana Subotic
Dr. Vedrana Subotic will discuss rehearsal preparation and organization, as well as strategies for synchronizing the mechanical and musical aspects of ensemble playing.
“Alternative Style for Beginner and Intermediate String Players by Mr. Aaron Ashton
Aaron Ashton returns to present the popular workshop teaching the basics of improvisation in alternative styles by playing rhythm, learning how to back up, to recognize chords, and to play a set of basic chords. Learn the basic techniques of improvisation, such as chopping, shuffling, imitation, and call and response.
Injury Prevention Pt 2 by Ms. Natalie Browning
As musicians, pursuing our passion requires physical prowess akin to a professional athlete––calling for strength, flexibility, and endurance to perform at high levels. Various factors influence how our bodies react to these demands, with the mind often playing a surprisingly pivotal role in the equation. Come and discover effective methods and exercises for injury prevention, tools to utilize in case of injury, and learn how the mind can not only contribute to but also facilitate healing from physical injuries.
“Sightreading for Pianists” by Dr. Carmen Hall
Let’s talk about one of the most important skills for pianists-SIGHTREADING! Learn the top tips to help you improve and then practice using these skills during the class. Walk away a better sight reader.
“Music and Movement” by Ms. Angelica Salazar and Ms. Morgan Smith
Come explore the connection between your ears and the movement of your body through this fun and interactive class! We will discuss the influence that different kinds of dance have had on music throughout history. We will learn how to move and breathe with expressive cues and communicative gestures as we perform with our instruments. Come join us for lots of active games and don’t expect to be sitting in a chair for long!
“Conducting” by Dr. Jeremy Starr
Conducting is the musical art form most often used with very little training and understanding. Come reap the rewards of gaining a solid foundational knowledge in the only musical art form that covers the entire musical spectrum!
“Conducting” by Ms. Denisse Vallecillos
A conductor’s job is really important when there are many musicians playing together! Come learn all about the world of conducting, the different gestures you can use, the role of each hand, and discover your own style all while practicing with a fun variety of music!