Community Music Conservatory launches summer classes

Conductor Matthew Wardell leads the Ocala Symphony Orchestra during event.

The Ocala Symphony Orchestra Community Music Conservatory launches its summer group classes and private lessons this June, according to a May 28 press release.

Summer programming is available Saturday, June 4-July 31. Dates and times vary for each class. Class listings are below:

Group Classes

“Buckets and Boomwhackers”—Grades 3-8, June 6-July 31, meets Mondays from 5 p.m.-5:45 p.m.

“This class is an introduction to basic rhythm and percussion that is affordable, portable and accessible to all. It is a fun and engaging activity for musicians of various ages and abilities, and a great ensemble to use to advertise and engage new students,” according to the press release.

“Songs and Stories”—Grades K-5, June 4-July 31, meets Saturdays 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

“This weekly offering is a fun and interactive combination of music, play, and literacy for younger children. Children will experience movement through music, stories presented through song, and interactive musical tales!”

“Music with the Maestro” series—Classes begin in June, dates and times vary

“Come take a deep dive into all things music with Ocala Symphony’s Maestro Matthew Wardell, in our Music with the Maestro series! This series is open to students of all ages. Class dates and times vary. Visit the website to learn more about the courses.”

Topics include:

• Development of the symphony
• Musical storytelling
• Beginnings of film music
• John Williams
• Hector Berlioz

Private Lessons

Unlike group classes, private lessons are highly focused, more intense and cater to each student individually, according to the press release. In these one-on-one sessions, instructors assess each student’s unique abilities and develop a personalized plan to progress his or her musicianship to the next level.

All classes begin the week of June 6. Open to all students of all ages.

Current instruments include:

• Cello
• Piano
• Violin/viola
• Drum/percussion
• Low brass
• Guitar/bass

Course offerings aim to provide more than the traditionally taught instrumental and musical techniques by creating opportunities for students of all ages and backgrounds to experience music education in an inclusive environment.

The Community Music Conservatory, located at the Reilly Arts Center, 500 N.E. 9^th St. in Ocala, is a professionally run music school that provides scholarship opportunities to students wishing to participate in group classes or private lessons. Scholarships are limited and awarded based on financial need and merit.

For specific schedules, pricing and classes, visit www.reillyartscenter.com/community-conservatory/.