2025 Workshop Topics
“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, recognize chords, and play a set of basic chords. Learn the basic techniques of improvisation, such as chopping, shuffling, imitation, and call-and-response.
“Alternative Style for Advanced String Players” by Mr. Aaron Ashton
Aaron Ashton returns to present the popular workshop teaching the basics of fiddling. Learn techniques like chopping, shuffle bowings, ornamentation and improvisation.
“Mental Training, the Other Side of Practicing” by Dr. Adrienne Tedjamulia
Mindfulness for musicians – workshop breathwork and mental processes to improve preparation and navigate stage anxiety.
“Communicating in Chamber Practice and Performance” by Mr. Tanner Jorden and Mrs. Caroline Durham Jorden
Learn how to offer and challenge ideas in a professional manner while in a chamber setting. In performance, be able to effectively communicate musical ideas through body language, breathing, and visual contact.
“Reading Music is Easy!” by Mrs. Elizabeth Marsh
And so are other things that seem hard, too. A workshop for young string players OR ANYONE WHO: 1. Is learning a new clef, 2. Feels discouraged or confused about rhythms, notes, or ledger lines, 3. Writes in the note names (A B C D) or fingerings (1 2 3 4) when learning a new piece of music, 4. Has a great ear, and maybe doesn’t think reading music well is really necessary or possible, 5. Thinks, “I’m not good at it,” or “Reading isn’t my thing/strength/forte,” 6. Has a hard time memorizing music, rhythms, or form. Get tried and true tips and strategies to become a music-reading ninja, and gain confidence in other aspects of your musical studies (and life)!
“Running Your Own Music Business” by Dr. Carmen Hall
Work for yourself! Learn the basics of running your own business and looking professional while you do it.
“Practicing Is Fun! A Discussion on Ideas and Strategies in Practicing That Can Make Practicing Efficient, Creative, Mindful and Fun” by Dr. Ka-Wai Yu
Do you get bored from practicing your instrument? Do you have a short attention span every time you practice? This session will look at different strategies in practicing. We will look at what a well-structured practice session looks like in terms of technique and musical focus, repetitions vs variations, optimal practice time and venue, etc…; explore creative ideas making this experience more rewarding; discuss mindful practicing – the importance of breathing, physical warmup and the efficient use of your body; and how we can fully enjoy this process of learning new music and polishing old music. Come join us for an interactive session about practicing!
“The Music of Disney and Minecraft – An Exploration of its Origins in Classical Music” by Dr. Jared Starr
When taking private lessons students often enjoy the classical repertoire. However, some of them light up even more when they get to play music from Disney films or Minecraft. In this workshop, we will explore some of this music and how it connects back to classical music styles of master composers and thereby discover how we can find more excitement in the classical music we have the privilege of playing.
“Music, Breathing, and Stretching: Oh My!” by Dr. Erika Bright
Did you know that you can play your instrument better when your body is relaxed? Learn fun tips, tricks and exercises to help you play at your very best.
“Exploring the Mysteries of the Score” by Dr. Blanka Bednarz
Dr. Bednarz will work with chamber groups directly on their scores, seeking answers to questions such as: “What do we see in the score? How to make decisions based in the score? What ‘if’s emerge for interpretation?”
“The Forest and the Trees: How to Navigate Starting a New Piece” by Mr. Jacob Clark
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by a piece? Have you ever received an assignment and wondered where to start? In this workshop we’ll discuss strategies for starting our work on repertoire, ways of thinking, practical tips and tricks, and an overall mindset that will save you precious time, and enable you to perform more music, more often, and at a higher level.
“Expressive Melodies: Unlocking Emotion and Interpretation in Music” by Dr. Vedrana Subotic
Join Dr. Vedrana Subotic for an inspiring music workshop designed for young musicians eager to unlock the secrets of musical expression! This engaging session will explore the nuances of interpretation and the emotional depth of music, guiding participants to connect with their instruments on a deeper level. Through interactive exercises, group discussions, and expert guidance, attendees will learn how to convey emotions through their performances, enhancing their creativity and musical storytelling. Whether you’re a budding pianist, violinist, or a bassoonist, this workshop will empower you to express your unique voice in the world of music. Get ready to elevate your artistry and discover the transformative power of emotional connection in music!
“Intro to Improvisation” by Mrs. Angelica Salazar
We will be setting our sheet music aside and exploring making up melodies, harmonies, and bass lines on the fly! Even if you have never improvised before, this step by step class will help give you the tools you need to feel confident making up your own music in any genre! Bring your instrument and get ready to unlock your courage and creativity!
“The Story Behind the Story” by Dr. Jeremy Starr
Experience the profound interpretive impact that comes from exploring the background and history of your piece!
“Why Do I Get Nervous?” by Dr. Erika Bright
Have you ever been surprised by nerves in a performance? Why do you feel that way? What is happening in your body and how can you use it to HELP your performances? Come find out!
“Training Our Ears Through Fun and Games” by Mrs. Morgan Smith
Having a good ear is important as a musician. It helps us understand musical structures and theory, improves our sense of pitch and rhythm, and can help with skills like memorization and improvisation. Come learn how to refine your ear with fun games and techniques to help level up your playing.
“Intro to Composition” by Mrs. Angelica Salazar
Often when we think of composers, we might think of great musicians like Bach or Beethoven who lived a long time ago. By the end of this class YOU will be on the path to becoming a composer! We will explore various principles of composition that will help empower you to write your own music. Bring your instrument and you’ll walk out of this fun class with a handwritten draft of your very first original composition!
“Conquering Fast Passages with Smart Practice” by Ms. Denisse Vallecillos
Struggling to play fast passages cleanly and confidently? In this hands-on class, students will learn proven practice techniques—from rhythmic variations to interleaved tempo-building—to bridge the gap between slow rehearsal and performance speed. Through demonstrations and guided exercises, participants will discover how to isolate tricky spots, build muscle memory, and play with fluency under pressure.
