There’s always something for everyone at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, and July is no different. For tickets to any of these fine events, go to TheCenterPresents.org or call (317) 843-3800.
Child & Adult Music Class: Song Stories
9:30 a.m. or 10:45 a.m. Fridays, July 21 to Aug. 18
The Palladium
Song Stories is a family music class inspired by popular song-based children’s books, designed for children aged 18 months to 5 years and their caregivers, but open to all ages. Classes are led by “Ms. Michelle” and are filled with live music, stories, movement, singing, dancing, and playing instruments.
Stories this session include: “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt,” “What a Wonderful World,” and “Down by the Station.” Families will receive a link to a digital recording of each book read by Ms. Michelle, as well as a CD of songs sung in class.
Open to all ages, best for 18 months to 5 years. Siblings under 10 months old may attend free of charge. Participation is limited to 10 children per session.
Click here to register.
About the instructor
Michelle Marti is a musician, educator, and performer. She is the owner of ShooBeeLoo Music & Movement and has been leading children and their parents in music classes since 2007. Born and raised in Australia, Michelle has traveled the world playing music and learning about a variety of cultures. Through her classes, “Ms. Michelle” introduces children to a broad spectrum of musical genres and experiences. She teaches music at a number of preschools and elementary schools throughout central Indiana. As one parent said, “Ms. Michelle is awesome and her energy rubs off on the kids – heck – me too! Her class involves instruments, singing, dancing, bubbles – most of all lots of fun!”
Songbook Academy in Concert
7 p.m. on Saturday, July 22
The Palladium
The Great American Songbook Foundation’s annual Songbook Academy is a summer youth intensive dedicated to the nation’s timeless popular music, most notably the jazz, pop, Broadway and Hollywood standards known as the Great American Songbook. Each year, 40 top high school vocalists are selected from hundreds of applicants to experience a rigorous week of workshops, masterclasses and performances led by Broadway performers and other arts and entertainment professionals. In this closing concert emceed by the Center’s artistic director, Michael Feinstein, the participants will showcase and celebrate their musical talents and growth during this life-changing experience.
Click here for tickets.
Jungle Jams
9 a.m., July 24 to 28
The Studio Theater
Time to start jammin’! Imagine living among animal friends in a jungle filled with rhythm instruments, music, and movement. Miss Lisa (aka “Groove Lady”) and her stuffed animals introduce your child to the fun and excitement of recreational music making. Jungle Jams is a creative summer camp program in which kids learn about positive character qualities as well as concepts like rhythm and groove through music and physical activities.
Each daily session includes active music making, creative movement, playing instruments and singing. Kids begin to build a sense of community and self-esteem as they contribute to the “group groove.” During the week, each camper will make three simple musical instruments to bring home. Family members are invited to join the Community Drum Circle Celebration the last 30 minutes on Friday.
No musical experience is necessary. For children aged 5 to 7.
Click here for tickets.
About the Center for the Performing Arts
The mission of the nonprofit Center for the Performing Arts is to engage and inspire the Indiana community through enriching arts experiences. Its campus includes the 1,500-seat Palladium concert hall, the 500-seat Tarkington theater and the black-box Studio Theater. The Center presents and hosts hundreds of events each year, including the Center Presents performance series, featuring the best in classical, jazz, pop, rock, country, comedy, and other genres. Educational and experiential programming includes children’s concerts, summer camps, book clubs, lectures, and classes in music and dance. The Center is home to the affiliated Great American Songbook Foundation and provides space and support services for six resident arts companies. More information at TheCenterPresents.org.