An Incubator for Future Music Talent
Mason Community Arts Academy is the community arts education division of George Mason University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts. The Academy brings enriching arts instruction to the community through inspiring and innovative lessons, classes and summer programs in music, theater, visual arts, and film & video, which are open to all ages and levels.
Children are introduced to music from as young as 3.5 years old through the Young Musicians Prep class progressing to the Young Musicians Class for 5-6 years olds, which is then a great stepping stone for learning a musical instrument through the beginning classes for piano, violin, and cello. The hope is that these classes ignite a lifelong love of music in these young people. Some even go on to enroll in a Music degree at Mason.
Mason Faculty Engage With Future Musicians
Named “Best Summer Camps 2020, 2021 and 2022,” by Northern Virginia Magazine, the Academy also offers inclusive, engaging university-quality summer music camps and programs including instrumental, band, vocal and choral. Students connect with esteemed Mason faculty and teaching artists for lectures, masterclasses, guest performances, private lessons, clinics, and audition workshops.
Adults Grow Here Too
The Academy also offers programs focused on teacher education and enrichment. Additionally, extensive outreach programs in music and theater have been established to reach under-resourced populations both in our area and abroad. Among the many outreach programs are:
- instruments in the attic
- the musical ambassadors program
- teaching scholars, and
- Acting For Young People after school program

The Academy is a Vital Part of the College of Visual and Performing Arts

Two outstanding Mason professors held a conducting seminar for adults in June 2022 as part of the Mason Academy's 'Summer Arts at Mason.' Dr. Anthony Maiello, professor of instrumental conducting (left) and Dr. Soo Han, director of Orchestral Studies, focused on conducting technique, score study, rehearsal skills and other special topics. Guest presenters included retired Commander/Conductor of the internationally renowned U.S. Air Force Band, Symphony Orchestra, and Singing Sergeants, Colonel Arnald Gabriel and composer/conductor Mark Camphouse. Participants had the opportunity to conduct, observe other conductors and special guest clinicians, and participate in group score study sessions and discussions.