Inspire your inner artist at the Solon Center for the Arts
Aug 21, 2016 04:34PM ● By Today's Family
Students in grades 3–8 participate in an annual musical theatre workshop during summer camp. This summer's performance was Dear Edwina JR., a heartwarming musical that follows the adventures of Edwina Spoonapple, as she directs the neighborhood kids in a series of buoyant production numbers for the latest edition of her weekly "Advice-a-Palooza.” Contact SCA for information on upcoming performances.
By Mary Flenner
“Art is as natural as sunshine and as vital as nourishment,” author and educator MaryAnn Kohl once said. The Solon Center for the Arts (SCA) is one organization that knows the importance of getting children and the community involved in the arts. For 15 years now, they've been providing vital arts education and events to the local community.
From classes in theater, art and dance, to private music lessons and orchestral performances, there is something to awaken the artist inside everyone at the Solon Center for the Arts. Best of all, these classes and events aren't restricted to Solon residents only––anyone can join!
The SCA offers an extensive list of classes for all ages and ability levels, starting as early as age two. You'll find interesting programs such as glass etching, metal workshops, adult craft days, and family art classes alongside traditional classes such as ballet, painting and ceramics. The SCA's afterschool program also offers a great alternative for after-school care at an affordable rate.
Study after study shows the positive correlation between involvement in the arts and academics, not to mention the immeasurable value of inspiring a lifelong appreciation, understanding and love of the arts.
"Getting involved in the arts is such an enriching experience, and makes for a well-rounded child. It's also a great alternative for kids who cannot or don't have the desire to participate in sports," says arts department coordinator Maria Klein. She has firsthand experience watching an involvement in the arts grow into a passion and an eventual career for her two children.
The instruction also goes beyond the typical arts education kids receive in school. Arts centers like the SCA are especially important today, with programs being cut across schools everywhere due to budget restraints.
Art classes at SCA focus on developing unique talent and personal skill in a creative, friendly environment. Classes are offered in a variety of mediums, from metals to clay and fiber art. Class options are always changing with the goal of offering students new ideas, concepts, techniques, and subject matter.
Some dance classes available include Intro to Movement, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Tap, Modern, Lyrical and Ballet. Children can improve motor and coordination skills through dance, among a long list of physical and mental benefits.
While many of their classes are focused on children, the Solon Center for the Arts offers several options for adults as well. Because, as Picasso famously said, "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up."
In that vein, the SCA is home to the Solon Philharmonic Orchestra, a group of talented amateur and professional musicians from high school age to adult. It also hosts Act II, a group for thespians and singers over age 55 focused on "aging creatively through the arts."
The SCA also hosts fun events throughout the year, such as the end-of-summer Splash Bash or their upcoming Cork 'n' Canvas wine and painting nights for adults. Other events include monthly gallery exhibits, theatrical performances, and they even offer field trips to Playhouse Square at various times throughout the year. They also have a student playwriting competition going on now. (Deadline for submission is 1/20/2017.)
"We believe in what we do and that it's important for the community," Klein continues.
For class schedules and event information visit www.SolonArts.org or call (440) 337-1400.
“Art is as natural as sunshine and as vital as nourishment,” author and educator MaryAnn Kohl once said. The Solon Center for the Arts (SCA) is one organization that knows the importance of getting children and the community involved in the arts. For 15 years now, they've been providing vital arts education and events to the local community.
From classes in theater, art and dance, to private music lessons and orchestral performances, there is something to awaken the artist inside everyone at the Solon Center for the Arts. Best of all, these classes and events aren't restricted to Solon residents only––anyone can join!
The SCA offers an extensive list of classes for all ages and ability levels, starting as early as age two. You'll find interesting programs such as glass etching, metal workshops, adult craft days, and family art classes alongside traditional classes such as ballet, painting and ceramics. The SCA's afterschool program also offers a great alternative for after-school care at an affordable rate.
Study after study shows the positive correlation between involvement in the arts and academics, not to mention the immeasurable value of inspiring a lifelong appreciation, understanding and love of the arts.
"Getting involved in the arts is such an enriching experience, and makes for a well-rounded child. It's also a great alternative for kids who cannot or don't have the desire to participate in sports," says arts department coordinator Maria Klein. She has firsthand experience watching an involvement in the arts grow into a passion and an eventual career for her two children.
The instruction also goes beyond the typical arts education kids receive in school. Arts centers like the SCA are especially important today, with programs being cut across schools everywhere due to budget restraints.
Art classes at SCA focus on developing unique talent and personal skill in a creative, friendly environment. Classes are offered in a variety of mediums, from metals to clay and fiber art. Class options are always changing with the goal of offering students new ideas, concepts, techniques, and subject matter.
Some dance classes available include Intro to Movement, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Tap, Modern, Lyrical and Ballet. Children can improve motor and coordination skills through dance, among a long list of physical and mental benefits.
While many of their classes are focused on children, the Solon Center for the Arts offers several options for adults as well. Because, as Picasso famously said, "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up."
In that vein, the SCA is home to the Solon Philharmonic Orchestra, a group of talented amateur and professional musicians from high school age to adult. It also hosts Act II, a group for thespians and singers over age 55 focused on "aging creatively through the arts."
The SCA also hosts fun events throughout the year, such as the end-of-summer Splash Bash or their upcoming Cork 'n' Canvas wine and painting nights for adults. Other events include monthly gallery exhibits, theatrical performances, and they even offer field trips to Playhouse Square at various times throughout the year. They also have a student playwriting competition going on now. (Deadline for submission is 1/20/2017.)
"We believe in what we do and that it's important for the community," Klein continues.
For class schedules and event information visit www.SolonArts.org or call (440) 337-1400.