Music & Theater:  Exploring Form and Freedom

 " Do you wish to be great? Then begin by being.  Do you desire to construct a vast and lofty fabric?  Think first about the foundations of humility.  The higher your structure is to be, the deeper must be its foundation. "  Saint Augustine

"Nothing I can do will change the structure of the universe.  But maybe by raising my voice I can help the greatest of all causes – goodwill among men and peace on earth."    Albert Einstein

This program will focus on the study of music and theater as powerful methods for exploring and expanding our understanding of the critical role of formal structures in providing access to freedom and creativity.  Throughout the program we will examine fundamental concepts of music and theater and consider cultural and historical environments that influence the development of and give meaning to the arts. Our work with progressive skill development will require physical immersion into the practices of listening, moving, acting and making music.  Theory and literature studies will require the development of a common working vocabulary, writing skills, quantitative reasoning, and critical thinking skills.

Weekly activities will include readings, lectures, seminars and interactive workshops designed to encourage students to expand and meld their creative interests within an intellectual infrastructure.  Daily performance workshops will provide opportunities to gain first-hand understanding of fundamental skills and concepts as well as the transformative possibilities that exist through honest confrontation of challenging experiences. Writing workshops and assignments will encourage thoughtful consideration of a broad range of program topics.

This balanced approach to the development of physical craft, artistry and intellectual engagement is expected to culminate in a significant written and performance project.