CCM Preparatory Department Expands to UC Blue Ash Campus

The Preparatory Department of the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM Prep) will begin offering arts opportunities for the community at UC Blue Ash College on October 8, 2011. Dance classes for children are already offered at the nearby Mayerson Jewish Community Center.

“We are excited to have this opportunity for CCM Prep to bring our excellent arts education programs to accessible sites in the community” explains Amy Dennison, director of CCM Prep. “Having these spaces just north of the city where students can participate in our programs opens up new opportunities for all of us.”

The program is being developed and will continue to evolve based on the interests of the surrounding community. Programs will take place on Saturday morning at Blue Ash College. Private lessons in voice, violin, guitar and piano will be offered this fall and based on demand will grow to offer additional instruments. A family music class for toddlers and parents will also begin on October 8, taught by well-known early childhood music educator Mary Rekers. A guitar class for youth and acting classes for both youth and adults will be part of the program. The Cincinnati Children’s Choir, a partner with CCM Prep, will also be launching a satellite location at the Blue Ash site with a choir for 3rd – 8th graders.

The Cincinnati Junior Strings, the area’s preeminent ensemble for young string players, will rehearse and perform at UC Blue Ash beginning in the Fall. They will present two free concerts open to the public on December 11, 2011 and May 13, 2012.

CCM Prep holds triple accreditation from the National Schools of Music, Theatre and Dance. Accreditation ensures that the institution offers the highest standards in programs, teaching and facilities. CCM Prep is the only area member of the National Guild for Community Arts Education, an organization dedicated to equal access to high quality arts education for everyone. Many CCM Prep students continue their arts training at such prestigious institutions such as CCM, Oberlin, Northwestern, University of Michigan and the Berklee College of Music. Many faculty members perform with companies and organizations throughout the city.

To participate in a survey to help with CCM Prep programs, please visit our survey site at www.surveymonkey.com/s/CCMPrepUCBlueAsh. To receive a program brochure or receive further information please contact us at 513-556-2595, email ccmprep@uc.edu or visit ccm.uc.edu/prep.