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
Create a Comic Workshop
This workshop is in celebration of Free Comic Book Day (always the first Saturday in May). During the workshop, young artists will celebrate the art of comic books and learn how to create their very own comic. Drawing comics is a great way to promote literacy skills and an opportunity for kids to flex their creative muscles.
Date: Saturday, May 2
Time/Age: 9–10 a.m., grades K–2
10:15–11:45 a.m., grades 3–5
Noon–1:30 p.m., grades 6+
Cost: $15
Instructor: B. Haupt
Winona Arts Camp 2020
Join MCA and Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM) for the 6th annual integrated arts summer camp. Once again students will get to rank their class choice of visual and performing arts they want to explore, having the opportunity to be immersed in four subjects a day. From percussion and creative journaling to learning how to apply special effects stage make-up and ballet basics, there are plenty of options to satisfy the artist in everyone. Back by popular demand, there will be an all camp talent show on Friday morning and families are invited to attend a lively showcase at 3 pm on Friday afternoon. Once you have registered online or in-person, please fill out the class choice form.
Dates: TBD, M-F
Time: 9:00 am- 3:30 pm
Age: 1st - 8th grade
Price: $189 (Early Bird Special), $209 (after May 1), Fee includes camp t-shirt. Students will need to bring a lunch and water bottle daily.
Class choices for 2020 include: Special Effects Stage Make-up, Adventures in Acting, Recycled Art, Word Art, Exploring the Masters, Meet the Piano, Tap it Out, Ballet Basics, Intro to Contemporary Dance, Dance around the World Just Weave It, Percussion Jam, Songwriting, Sing Out, and Adventures in Acting. Class choice form.
Virtual Arts for All Houston County Residents
Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is excited to announce NEW virtual programming for both youth and adults in collaboration with Caledonia Public Library and Mainspring in June. Due to COVID-19, this collaborative group had to cancel in-person creative classes previously scheduled for spring and summer 2020. However, thanks to the dedication of funders and partners, we are excited to bring virtual creative and cultural classes to you at home! All of these events are FREE to Houston County residents, but registration is required.
This project is made possible with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund and the people of Minnesota for Library Legacy activities.
With beautiful bluffs, owls, and barn quilts, what's not to love about Houston County? Now is your chance to create mini-pictures of your favorite spots and features of your home. You will learn how to play with color, blending, and design during this one-of-a-kind class.
Pre-packaged materials for this class will be provided for free, thanks to our funders. Once registered, you will receive an email with details for curbside pick-up or delivery. Each registered participant will also receive access to a series of short adult mindful stretching and chair yoga videos created by Mainspring to enjoy at home.
Do you love to paint, draw, & sculpt? Youth ages 5-10 are invited to flex their creativity muscles while creating and connecting with others virtually. Each week you will explore new artistic materials and concepts. This session will focus on explorations with oil pastels and drawing techniques. Each participant will receive their very own home art kit including oil pastels, an artist pencil, special paper and more.
Pre-packed materials for this class will be provided for free, thanks to our funders. Once registered, you will receive an email with details for curbside pick-up or delivery. Registrants also receive a series of short downloadable youth yoga classes and Houston County Activity Book created by Mainspring.
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. Many instruments are also being offered online during the COVID-19 Outbreak.
- 4, 30 minute lessons- $76
- 8, 30 minute lessons- $144
- 12, 30 minute lessons- $204
45 minute and 1 hour lessons may be arranged for more advanced students.
Lesson dates and times: Arranged between MCA instructor and student/family.
NEW! Piano Discoveries I
Your child can begin his or her journey to a lifelong love of piano by joining us for this low–key, but engaging introductory group piano class. Students will have fun as they learn new songs and play games that will unlock musical skills such as notation, listening skills, proper posture, and hand placement. Basic reading ability and access to a keyboard or piano for practice is recommended for optimal success (Free use of pianos at MCA possible subject to availability).
Day/Dates: Session I: Mondays, Jan. 13–March 2
Session II: March 16- May 11 (no class April 13)
Level/Time: 5–6 p.m.
Ages: 6–9 years
Cost: $155 (including textbook material)
Instructor: L. Douglas
Class is limited to 6 participants
Winona Arts Camp 2020
Join MCA and Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM) for the 6th annual integrated arts summer camp. Once again students will get to rank their class choice of visual and performing arts they want to explore, having the opportunity to be immersed in four subjects a day. From percussion and creative journaling to learning how to apply special effects stage make-up and ballet basics, there are plenty of options to satisfy the artist in everyone. Back by popular demand, there will be an all camp talent show on Friday morning and families are invited to attend a lively showcase at 3 pm on Friday afternoon. Once you have registered online or in-person, please fill out the class choice form.
Dates: TBD, M-F
Time: 9:00 am- 3:30 pm
Age: 1st - 8th grade
Price: $189 (Early Bird Special), $209 (after May 1), Fee includes camp t-shirt. Students will need to bring a lunch and water bottle daily.
Class choices for 2020 include: Special Effects Stage Make-up, Adventures in Acting, Recycled Art, Word Art, Exploring the Masters, Meet the Piano, Tap it Out, Ballet Basics, Intro to Contemporary Dance, Dance around the World Just Weave It, Percussion Jam, Songwriting, Sing Out, and Adventures in Acting. Class choice form.
My Grown up & Me
Does your child love to move? 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-ups attending will be asked to participate along with their child.
Day/Dates: Thursdays, May 14-June 11
Time: 5:15–5:45 p.m.
Ages: 18 mo.–3 years (by 5/1/20)
Cost: $40
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: Wednesdays, May 13-June 10
Time: 4:45-5:15 p.m.
Ages: 3–5 years (by May 1)
Cost: $40
Instructor: J. Dienger
Boys in Motion Ages 3-4
Calling all super heroes, knights and future athletic stars, this dance class rocks! This class is specifically designed for young boys ages 3-4 years, to enhance athletic skills, flexibility, coordination and strength while also being introduced to ballet and contemporary dance.
Day/Dates: Thursdays, May 14-June 11
Time: 4:00-4:30 p.m.
Age: 3-4 years (by May 1)
Fee: $18
Instructor: J. Dienger
Dance Adventures
Do you have a little one who loves to twist and spin and dance around the room? If so, they will love this sampler class, which is a blend of creative movement, ballet technique and games. Students will love expressing themselves through movement, gaining knowledge of different dance forms ,and benefiting from moving in space with others.
Day/Dates: Saturdays, May 16-June 13
Time: 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Age: 4-6 years (by May 1)
Fee: $45
Instructor: J. Dienger
Pre-Ballet for 4 year-olds
Playful and engaging first steps into classical ballet.
Day/Dates: Mondays, May 11-June 8 (No class May 25)
Time: 4:15-4:45 pm
Age: 4 (by May 1)
Price: $32
Instructor: R. Ryan
Boys in Motion Ages 5-6
Calling all super heroes, knights and future athletic stars, this dance class rocks! This class is specifically designed for young boys ages 5-6 years, to enhance athletic skills, flexibility, coordination and strength while also being introduced to ballet and contemporary dance.
Day/Dates: Fridays, May 15- June 12
Time: 4:30-5:00 p.m.
Age: 5-6 years (Jan. 1)
Fee: $18
Instructor: J. Dienger
Pre-Ballet for 5 year-olds
An imaginative, technique-based introduction to classical ballet perfect for your 5 year-old.
Day/Dates: Thursdays, May 14-June 11
Time: 4:30-5:15 pm
Age: 5 (by May 1)
Price: $45
Instructor: J. Dienger
Irish I
Introduction to Irish Dance technique. Students will learn basic jig and reel steps, along with ceili dances.
Day/Dates: Mondays, May 11-June 8 (No class May 25)
Time: 4-4:45 p.m.
Age: 5 years & up
Price: $36
Instructor: A. Honecker-Sherman
Beginning Ballet
Continued introduction to classical ballet. Designed to build coordination, strength and body awareness through a range of creative techniques perfect for your 6 year-old.
Day/Dates: Wednesdays, May 13-June 10
Time: 4:15-5:15 pm
Fee: $50
Age: 6 (by May 1)
Instructor: R. Ryan
Beginning Hip Hop
Get ready to move to the beat in this fun introduction into the world of hip hop dance with music and moves just right for your age.
Day/Dates: Thursday, May 14-June 11
Time: 5:45–6:30 p.m.
Ages: 6–9 years
Cost: $45
Instructor: A. Kline
National Tap Dance Day workshops
Each class will include tap technique, warm-ups, and rehearsals to learn a choreographed piece to be performed at MCA’s National Tap Dance Day (NTDD) celebration in the Academy Theatre on Sunday, May 31, at 3 p.m. Each year tap celebrations are held in honor of Bill “Bojangles” Robinson’s birthday. Don’t miss this exciting performance opportunity! Fee includes a NEW MCA Tapper Shirt
Dates: Classes May 2- May 30, Rehearsal and performance Sunday, May 31.
Days, times and levels: See Below
Tap for Kids- Tuesdays, 5-5:45pm and Saturdays, 9-9:45am p.m. $108 (ages 5+) , J. Meinke (no class on May 5)
Tap I- Mondays, 5:45-6:45 p.m. & Fridays, 5:45-6:45pm $120 (ages 8 years and up ), J. Baechle
Tap II-Tuesdays, 5:45-6:45pm & Saturdays, 9:45-10:45am $120, J. Meinke
Tap III, IV & V- Tuesdays, 4-5:15pm Technique Class, J. Dienger
Saturdays, 10:45am-12:15pm- Rep Class, C. Martin
Just Technique $83, Technique and Rep Class $154
Adult Tap- See Adult Fitness Section
*Please don't let the lack of tap shoes be a barrier, we have a tap shoes that can be borrowed in most sizes, just ask our office. New to MCA? No problem, please contact our office so we may help you choose the right level for you.
NEW! Daddy & Dancer
In celebration of Father’s Day, we are holding a special class where ballet dancers (both boys and girls) get to invite their dad, grandpa, or other special friend to join them at the barre and on the dance floor to make memories together and enjoy a little treat together at the end.
Date: Saturday, June 20
Times and levels:
Pre-Ballet/Beginner Ballet: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Ballet I-III: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Ballet IV-VII: 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Cost: $10 per family or $5 if enrolled dancers are enrolled in spring dance classes
Instructors: J. Dienger, R. Ryan-Dahlgren, T. Schmidt
Young Dancer Intensive
Do you dance in your dreams and everywhere you go? Grab your dancing shoes and get ready to spin and soar. We will start each day off with ballet to build a strong dance foundation, then explore a “genre of the day” class including jazz, modern, or hip hop and end the day with a creative class such as costume design or acting to ignite your imagination and performance skills. No dance experience necessary.
Dates: June 22-26, 2020 M-F
Time: 1-4 pm
Age: 6-9 years
Fee: $99 (Early Bird Special) $119 (after May 1), Fee includes a camp t-shirt. Students will need to bring a snack and water bottle daily.
Nutcracker Fairy Tale Camp
Journey with Clara and the Nutcracker to the lands of snow and sweets as you creatively explore the world of ballet and this classic tale.
Friends and family will be invited to an informal showcase on the final day of camp.
Dates: Aug. 10-14 (Monday- Friday)
Time: 9:00 am- 11:00 am
Ages: 3-5 years & grades Kindergarten- 1st
Price: $59 (Early Bird), $69 (after May 1), price includes a camp t-shirt
Students will be asked to bring a water bottle each day. Includes camp t-shirt. Students must be potty-trained.
Tap Camp
Join us for an exciting week of rhythm! TAP CAMP will include classes in tap technique, repertory, improvisation, body percussion, music theory and concepts for the tap dancer, tap history, and tap in films. TAP CAMP will hold new challenges for beginning, intermediate, and advanced tappers.
Dancers should bring a water bottle and snack each day. An informal demonstration for family and friends will be held on Friday, Aug. 14th at 5:30 pm followed by a potluck pizza party! Feel the rhythm, feel the rhyme, come on dancers, it's TAP CAMP time!
Dates: August 10-14, 2020
Time & Ages: Tap for Kids and Tap I: 11:30 am- 1:30 pm (ages 5+, no experience- 2 years experience) (Dancers will also be invited to perform on Friday, Aug. 14 at 5:30 pm.
Tap II-V: 1:30 - 5:30 pm (Intermediate & advanced Tap Dancers ages 11+ or MCA Tap levels II-V. Tappers will participate in a placement class on day one.)
Fee: Tap for Kids and Tap I: $85 (Early Bird Special), $99 (after May 1)
Tap II-V: $165 (Early Bird Special), $189 (after May 1)
*Fees include camp t-shirt.
Winona Arts Camp 2020
Join MCA and Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM) for the 6th annual integrated arts summer camp. Once again students will get to rank their class choice of visual and performing arts they want to explore, having the opportunity to be immersed in four subjects a day. From percussion and creative journaling to learning how to apply special effects stage make-up and ballet basics, there are plenty of options to satisfy the artist in everyone. Back by popular demand, there will be an all camp talent show on Friday morning and families are invited to attend a lively showcase at 3 pm on Friday afternoon. Once you have registered online or in-person, please fill out the class choice form.
Dates: TBD, M-F
Time: 9:00 am- 3:30 pm
Age: 1st - 8th grade
Price: $189 (Early Bird Special), $209 (after May 1), Fee includes camp t-shirt. Students will need to bring a lunch and water bottle daily.
Class choices for 2020 include: Special Effects Stage Make-up, Adventures in Acting, Recycled Art, Word Art, Exploring the Masters, Meet the Piano, Tap it Out, Ballet Basics, Intro to Contemporary Dance, Dance around the World Just Weave It, Percussion Jam, Songwriting, Sing Out, and Adventures in Acting. Class choice form.
2020 Summer Camp Overview
Junior Training Program for Dancers- June 15-26, 9am-4pm, Monday- Friday, ages 9+ (with approx. 3 years dance experience/ MCA Ballet Level II) Q & A about our Junior Training Program.
Young Dancer Intensive– June 22-26, Monday-Friday, 1-4 pm, ages 6-9 years
17th Annual Boarding Summer Dance Intensive (SDI)- July 5-25, ages 11-22, acceptance by in-person or video audition required. Q & A about our SDI.
Winona Arts Camp 2020- August 3-7, Monday- Friday, 9am-3:30pm, 1st-8th grade
Nutcracker Fairy Tale Camp- August, 10-14, Monday- Friday, 9:00-11:00 am, ages 3-5 years & K-1st grade
Tap Camp- Aug. 10-14, 11:30 am-1:30 pm (beg- 2 years tap experience), 1:30-5:30pm (Int. & Adv. tap experience and 11+), Monday- Friday, ages 5+ .
All of these camps will take place at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts home, The Valencia Arts Center. Please check back soon for more details on these camps, 2020 National Tap Dance Day Celebration workshops, stay strong classes, summer private lessons, spring dance classes, and Arts Camps at the YMCA by MCA staff.
MCA in partnership with the Winona YMCA
MCA is proud to be partnering once again with the Winona YMCA to offer more opportunities for local kids to explore the arts and get creative this year. Registration for these camp is through the Winona YMCA at: winonaymca.org
Wednesdays, Jan. 15- Feb.26, MCA Adventures in Ballet: Frozen, 5:15-6 pm, ages 3-5 years
Wednesdays, Mar. 18- Apr. 29, Adventures in Ballet: Little Mermaid, 5:30-6 pm, ages 3-5 years
Peanut Butter & Jelly Players
Children's imaginations will soar as they recreate storybook tales through dramatizations, music and dance. Each week your child will have fun using theatrical exercises. sing-a-longs and movement games as they prepare for a small performance on the last day of class where they will show off their newly-honed skills.
Day/Dates: Saturdays, May 16-July 13
Times: 9:45-10:15 am
Ages: 4-6 years
Instructor(s): C. Deysach
Cost: $45
Junie B. Jones Jr., The Musical
Join Junie B. on her first day of first grade, where many changes are in store: Junie's best friend Lucille has found new best friends -— and Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. While in Mr. Scary's class, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard — and she may need glasses. Add in a friendly cafeteria lady, an intense kickball tournament and a "Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal," and first grade has never been more exciting.
Auditions: Postponed due to COVID-19. Register for a 30 minute audition time slot. Students should prepare a 1 min. or less song from a Broadway musical (please bring sheet music) and be prepared to learn a short choreographic sequence. Ages 8+ will also be asked to read from a script provided.
Ages: Youth ages 6-18 are invited to audition
Rehearsals: Rehearsals will be dependent on size of role and age, typically rehearsals will take place between 6:30-8:30 pm during the week, weekend rehearsals possible. No absences between July 22- Aug. 2.
MCA Faculty: Directed by: Catherine Deysach, Musical Directed by: Lisa Douglas, Costumes by: Ruby Oian
Cast Member Price: $70 (there is no fee to audition, those cast pay a fee that covers instruction and costumes)
Performances: Postponed due to COVID-19, MN Conservatory for the Arts, Academy Theatre inside the Valencia Arts Center.
Ticket cost: $10 Adults & $5 Students & Seniors
Winona Arts Camp 2020
Join MCA and Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM) for the 6th annual integrated arts summer camp. Once again students will get to rank their class choice of visual and performing arts they want to explore, having the opportunity to be immersed in four subjects a day. From percussion and creative journaling to learning how to apply special effects stage make-up and ballet basics, there are plenty of options to satisfy the artist in everyone. Back by popular demand, there will be an all camp talent show on Friday morning and families are invited to attend a lively showcase at 3 pm on Friday afternoon. Once you have registered online or in-person, please fill out the class choice form.
Dates: TBD, M-F
Time: 9:00 am- 3:30 pm
Age: 1st - 8th grade
Price: $189 (Early Bird Special), $209 (after May 1), Fee includes camp t-shirt. Students will need to bring a lunch and water bottle daily.
Class choices for 2020 include: Special Effects Stage Make-up, Adventures in Acting, Recycled Art, Word Art, Exploring the Masters, Meet the Piano, Tap it Out, Ballet Basics, Intro to Contemporary Dance, Dance around the World Just Weave It, Percussion Jam, Songwriting, Sing Out, and Adventures in Acting. Class choice form.
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.
My Grown up & Me
Does your child love to move? 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-ups attending will be asked to participate along with their child.
Day/Dates: Thursdays, May 14-June 11
Time: 5:15–5:45 p.m.
Ages: 18 mo.–3 years (by 5/1/20)
Cost: $40
NEW! Daddy & Dancer
In celebration of Father’s Day, we are holding a special class where ballet dancers (both boys and girls) get to invite their dad, grandpa, or other special friend to join them at the barre and on the dance floor to make memories together and enjoy a little treat together at the end.
Date: Saturday, June 20
Times and levels:
Pre-Ballet/Beginner Ballet: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Ballet I-III: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Ballet IV-VII: 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Cost: $10 per family or $5 if enrolled dancers are enrolled in spring dance classes
Instructors: J. Dienger, R. Ryan-Dahlgren, T. Schmidt
Virtual Arts for All Houston County Residents
Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is excited to announce NEW virtual programming for both youth and adults in collaboration with Caledonia Public Library and Mainspring in June. Due to COVID-19, this collaborative group had to cancel in-person creative classes previously scheduled for spring and summer 2020. However, thanks to the dedication of funders and partners, we are excited to bring virtual creative and cultural classes to you at home! All of these events are FREE to Houston County residents, but registration is required.
This project is made possible with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund and the people of Minnesota for Library Legacy activities.
With beautiful bluffs, owls, and barn quilts, what's not to love about Houston County? Now is your chance to create mini-pictures of your favorite spots and features of your home. You will learn how to play with color, blending, and design during this one-of-a-kind class.
Pre-packaged materials for this class will be provided for free, thanks to our funders. Once registered, you will receive an email with details for curbside pick-up or delivery. Each registered participant will also receive access to a series of short adult mindful stretching and chair yoga videos created by Mainspring to enjoy at home.
Do you love to paint, draw, & sculpt? Youth ages 5-10 are invited to flex their creativity muscles while creating and connecting with others virtually. Each week you will explore new artistic materials and concepts. This session will focus on explorations with oil pastels and drawing techniques. Each participant will receive their very own home art kit including oil pastels, an artist pencil, special paper and more.
Pre-packed materials for this class will be provided for free, thanks to our funders. Once registered, you will receive an email with details for curbside pick-up or delivery. Registrants also receive a series of short downloadable youth yoga classes and Houston County Activity Book created by Mainspring.
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
HOURS
All in-person MCA programs and performances are cancelled through May 8, 2020 in a response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Phone calls and emails will be responded to during this time.
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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