Judson music school enrolling new students

Submitted by Judson University

The Judson Community Music School, one of two music programs benefiting the community, is currently enrolling new students for the Spring 2012 semester, which begins Jan. 14 and runs through April 20.

The Judson Community Music School and Fox Valley Music Camp at Judson University are two community outreach programs available through the university’s music department. Since 2006, these community initiatives have provided quality and affordable music opportunities to budding young musicians in the Elgin area with a special focus on the under-resourced and families with multiple children pursuing music studies.

“The goal of these programs is to provide area children and teens with an opportunity to discover and develop their musical abilities,” says Robert Kania, professor of music at Judson and director of the Fox Valley Music Camp. “It is our firm belief that pursuing music not only enriches the lives of children, but also builds self-confidence, discipline and a cooperative spirit.”

The Judson Community Music School is headed by Sojung Hong, associate professor of music at Judson University. Students grow their skills by taking weekly lessons from qualified instructors throughout the school year. This past fall semester, the Judson Community Music School taught 41 students in piano, voice, violin, viola, string bass and guitar. The semester concluded with a recital, where students gained experience performing on stage and developing their ability to remain poised and professional in front of an audience. Registration is now available by visiting www.judsonu.edu/JCMS.

This past summer, 63 students from kindergarten to 12th grade spent a week at the Fox Valley Music Camp at Judson University exploring music fundamentals, playing in ensembles, taking private lessons from professional musicians, composing music, learning music history and having fun making new friends. According to Kania, the number of students participating in the camp has increased threefold since the first camp was held six years ago. The next camp will take place the week of June 25-29 on Judson’s campus. More information can be found at www.judsonu.edu/JCMS.