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 creative arts from as young as 4 years old, with opportunities for a continuum of study through classes and lessons through elementary, middle, and high school. The hope is that these classes ignite a lifelong love of music in these young people. Current data shows that many of our Academy students go on to enroll at George Mason University in the College of Visual and Performing Arts, as well as other degree programs! The Academy also offers creative classes and activities to adults—including teacher training and professional development workshops, plus special opportunities for senior adults—to engage, stimulate, and inspire.
George Mason Faculty Engage With Future Musicians
Named “Best Summer Camps 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024,” 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 George Mason faculty and teaching artists for lectures, masterclasses, guest performances, private lessons, clinics, and audition workshops.
Outreach Into The Community
Additionally, the Academy provides extensive outreach programs to the community, established to reach under-resourced populations both in our area and abroad. The most well-known program, "Instruments in the Attic," is a musical instrument recycling program where used instruments are donated by community members, repaired, and outsourced to schools, organizations, and individuals in need.
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.