SARASOTA, FL – For parents of students interested in the arts – especially those parents considering educational alternatives as the coronavirus continues to disrupt society – Music Compound has a new option. Music Compound is officially launching a new program, The Music Academy, for grades 3-8, that offers core curriculum through virtual means and then afternoon electives in the arts. Just 12 students will be accepted.
The program runs August 17 through May 21, Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. (hours are flexible). Students can attend 2, 3 or 4 days, and half-day options are available.
In the morning, with the oversight of a qualified instructor, students will receive instruction through Florida Virtual School in language arts, math, science and social sciences. After a break for lunch, students will receive 3 hours daily for music studies, choosing from electives including music theory, art, dance, individual and ensemble instrumental opportunities, and more. The students in grades 3-5 will also be able to participate in the new musical theatre program, while grades 6-8 can participate in the new show choir; these two programs are being led by noted local educator Julie Rohr McHugh.
Students will be able to participate in open forums to encourage musical collaboration and enjoy performance recital opportunities. Additionally, a customized career pathway and action plan will be developed for each student, with the assistance of an expert provided through CareerEdge.
“As parents weigh their options for the coming year, we are pleased to offer an alternative that provides a solid core curriculum while making top-notch instruction available in music, dance and drama,” said Music Compound owner Jenny Townsend. “With just 12 students and large rooms on-site, we will be able to keep the students distanced and will also encourage ample hand-washing and other healthy behaviors.”
Music Compound has been brewing the concept for The Music Academy since 2017, at a time when distance learning was well outside of the mainstream. Now, with families more familiar and comfortable with the concept of virtual learning, Townsend feels this is the perfect time to offer a high-quality, arts-intensive educational alternative.
“We are committed to providing a safe environment where parents can find peace of mind, whether they are returning to work or working remotely but can’t maintain their workload with children at home,” said Townsend. “Plus, partnerships with community organizations such as Drama Kids and CareerEdge will expand the level of expertise and topic matter from which our students can benefit. We invite parents to see what we have to offer.”
Tuition is $10,000 for the school year. Music Compound is located at 1751 Cattlemen Road in Sarasota. For more information or to request a tour, go to musiccompound.com or call 941-379-9100.
About Music Compound
The Music Compound provides an environment to inspire, collaborate and educate children and adults in pursuit of their love of music. The goal is to transform dreams into reality by providing a contemporary and influential environment for musicians of all ages. For more information, visit www.musiccompound.com.