May 11, 2004

CONTACT: Gordon Ovenshine (724) 738-4854; e-mail: gordon.ovenshine@sru.edu

NEW BLOCK IN FLUTE ADDED FOR 15^TH SUMMER CREATIVE

AND PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY AT SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY

           SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – A new study block in flute and a theme of identity and self-discovery through the arts mark the 15^th Summer Creative and Performing Arts Academy July 12-23 at Slippery Rock University. High school students may commute or live on campus for two weeks of work in visual arts, jazz, dance, theater or creative writing.  Applications for the all-day programs will be accepted through June 30.

            Cost is $600 for resident students, which includes tuition, room and board; $325 for commuting students. Students going into grades 9 through 12 in Butler, Mercer, Armstrong or Lawrence counties, as well as those from Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, may attend.

           Taught by SRU faculty and teachers from around the region, this year’s program weaves together self-discovery and innovative experience. SRU’s Dr. Joseph McCarren, professor of English, is the academy director.

            The blocks:

• Flute:  A flute workshop is added to the summer academy program. Geared to high school students, this program will provide classes in music theory and flute history, as well as many performing opportunities, including private lessons, small ensembles, jazz and non-jazz improvisation and flute choir.

• Visual Arts: Participants study with master artists and teachers as well as talented peers in a wide range of activities designed to be challenging and rewarding. Course offerings including drawing and design, digital imaging, ceramics, interactive multimedia, video production, textile and fibers and photography. 

• Creative writing: This is an intensive writers’ workshop where participants work individually and in small groups. Students will see their work published in print and online in the Pomegranate, the anthology of the summer academy.

• Dance: Participants develop knowledge of movement technique, improvisation and composition. Students will also participate in collaborative activities with the visual arts, jazz, theater and creative writing students.

• Jazz: This program introduces students to jazz education, jazz performance, theory, improvisation and music technology. Students will study with master jazz artists as well as peers. They will perform in small and large jazz ensembles.

• Theater: Participants experience hands-on theater. Students will have the opportunity to explore the enjoyment of theater, not only through observing it but by creating it. Workshops will focus on various areas of theater such as acting, designing and directing.

               For an application, call McCarren at 724-738-2868, or visit http://www.sru.edu/pages/4233.asp.