Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts / Classes & Programs
Early Childhood ProgramsAges 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.
Art | Dance | Music | Theatre | Family Programs
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, January 9 - March 13 (No Class January 16)
Time: 5:45-6:15pm
Ages: 18 months–3 years
Fee: $81
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, January 12 - March 16
Time: 5:00-5:30pm
Ages: 3-5 years (by January 1)
Cost: $100
Instructor: Jenn Baechle
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, January 11 - March 15
Time: 4:30-5:00pm
Age: 4
Fee: $100
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, January 11 - March 15
Time: 5:00-5:45pm
Age: 5
Fee: $110
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: Mondays, January 9 - March 13 (No class January 16 and February 27)
Time: 4:45-5:45pm
Age: 6
Fee: $96
Instructor: Rachael Ryan
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.
Tap for Kids
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, January 12 - March 16
Time: 5:30-6:00pm
Age: Ages 5-6
Fee: $100
Instructor: Jennifer Beachle
Tap shoes available in most sizes available through our free tap shoe lending program.
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.
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
OFFICE HOURS
Monday - Thursday- 9:00am-3:00pm and 3:45-8:00pm
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday- Closed
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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