Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts / Classes & Programs

Early Childhood Programs

Ages 6 and under

MCA is the best place to give your child a great start in the arts.

Because our instructors are so in-tune with the developmental stages and needs of children of this age your child will leave each class with a bounce in their step and eagerly return each week. MCA instructors know just how to strike just the right chord between creating fun, playful learning, and building a solid foundation in the arts. Children as young as 18 months old may start exploring the magical world of dance along with a special grown-up in their life in our “My Grown-up & Me” class.

See the handy chart below to help you decide which class is right for your child or click on the division below to explore offerings that are specifically designed for students ages 6 and under.

My Grown up & Me

Children ages 18 months to 3 years are invited to explore a new environment and connect with a special grown-up in their life. This class will stimulate coordination, balance and listening skills and will be filled with smiles to last a lifetime. Grown-up participation, along with their child, is essential for student success.

Day/Dates: Mondays, May 8-June 12 (No Class May 29)

Time: 5:45-6:15pm

Ages: 18 months–3 years

Fee: $45

Instructor: Jess Dienger

Creative Movement

Children will look forward to class each week as they creatively explore the world of movement while also gaining dance foundations such as balance and spatial awareness.

Day/Dates: Thursdays, May 11-June 15

Time: 5:00-5:30 pm

Ages: 3-5 years 

Cost: $60

Instructor: Jenn Baechle

ballet dancers

Pre-Ballet for 4 year-olds

A playful and captivating introduction to classical ballet. Students will engage in movement-based games and exercises through this lively and creative class.

Day/Dates: Wednesdays, May 10-June 14

Time: 5:00-5:30 pm

Age: 4

Fee: $60

Instructor:  Elizabeth Hinz

Pre-Ballet for 5 year-olds

An imaginative, technique-based introduction to classical ballet. Students will explore musicality, individual artistic expression and learn the basics of ballet classroom structure.

Day/Dates:  Wednesdays, May 10-June 14

Time: 5:30-6:15 pm

Age: 5

Fee: $66

Instructor: Elizabeth Hinz

Beginning Ballet

An introduction to classical ballet technique for 6-year-olds. Students will build coordination, strength and body awareness through a range of creative techniques.

Day/Dates: Tuesdays, May 9-June 13

Time: 5:30-6:30 pm

Age: 6

Fee: $72

Instructor:  Elizabeth Hinz

New to Ballet? We know that finding dancewear can be hard in our area, but please don't worry. Thanks to donations we are happy to offer families gentled used dancewear to families in need. Please contact our office to inquire at: mca@smumn.edu.

Beginning Tap

An introduction to the fundamentals of rhythm tap dance for ages 5 and 6. Students will engage in movement games and tap exercises throughout this fun, rhythm-filled class. 

Day/Dates: Thursdays, May 11-June 15

Time:  5:30-6:00pm

Age: Ages 5-6

Fee: $60

Instructor: Jennifer Beachle

Tap shoes available in most sizes available through our free tap shoe lending program. 

 

dancer

Beginning Hip Hop

This is an introduction to movement influenced by hip hop music from across the globe including breaking, popping, locking, and standard hip hop tricks and jumps.

Students and parents should review MCA's updated Health & Safety Code of Conduct.

Day/Dates: Wednesdays, May 11-June 15

Time: 5:45-6:30pm

Ages: 6-8

Cost: $54

Instructor: Jessica Dienger

Private Lessons

MCA offers private lessons for all ages and abilities! Our experienced teaching artists prepare students for a lifetime enjoyment of music.

Private lessons are offered year-round. Instruction available in flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, violin, cello, guitar, bass. piano, percussion, and voice. Students will be expected to purchase method books the instructor feels best address the student’s needs. Students have the opportunity to perform during MCA’s annual fall, winter and summer concerts and other performance opportunities based upon instructor recommendations. Some instruments such as the violin, guitar and piano are better suited for young students, if you have a young child who is interested in learning an instrument please contact us at 507-453-5500 for more information or by filling out a registration form indicating an instrument of interest. Virtual and in-person lessons are available.

  • 4, 30 minute lessons- $80
  • 8, 30 minute lessons- $160
  • 12, 30 minute lessons- $240

45 minute and 1 hour lessons may be arranged for more advanced students.

Lesson dates and times: Arranged between MCA instructor and student/family.

Instructor and instrument

Family Classes

With busy work and school schedules we know it can be hard to find time to do things as a family so in addition to producing a variety of music, theatre and dance performances for you and your family to enjoy we have 4 classes that will help families make memories, get creative and learn together. Below are descriptions of our Family Classes, but you may also want to check out our Events listing to find out about #MCAontheGo events & performances out in the community.

LOCATION & CONTACT

Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts
1164 West Howard (10th) Street
Winona, MN 55987

Phone: 507-453-5500
Fax: 507-453-5507

E-Mail: mca@smumn.edu

Contact Us

OFFICE HOURS

 

Monday - Thursday- 9:00am-3:00pm and 3:45-8:00pm

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday- Closed

 

sponsor logo

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

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