CREATIVE CONSERVATORY

Currently, most ELM students have weekly private zoom lessons and group musicianship classes. Our teachers are delighted that their students are gaining greater self-efficacy and autonomy and are impressed by their rapid musical growth during this time. The personalized contact with each student also provides us with a window into their lives and enables us to respond to special needs as they arise. 

One of the more exciting impacts of moving to distance learning is the benefits of technology. This summer eight of our students participated in a Creative Composing camp with students from across California. The two teachers, Carol Adee (flute) and Sophie Powers (all brass) who also participated found it so inspirational that they are now co-teaching a 16-week (online) program for ELM students using our older students as mentors.

Bringing children together in these group classes provides social engagement and an emotional outlet through yoga-inspired breathing exercises, movement, vocalization, and reflection. The class uses improvisation skills to inspire creativity while teaching traditional music theory. 

Our favorite journalist, Kate Fitzsimmons, interviewed Sophie and Carol for our ELM Spotlights series. You can feel their passion and enthusiasm for the project in the interview.