FGCU Bower School of Music offers wind/percussion lessons

Florida Gulf Coast University Bower School of Music offers a beginner group piano class for children currently in first and second grades. Classes will be offered Mondays 4 p.m. to 4:50 p.m. on campus beginning Sept. 8 through Dec. 15. Classes in spring run from January to May.

Previous piano instruction is not required, but students must be evaluated for readiness to study through a 30-minute session with the instructor. Readiness testing will take place in July at the Bower School of Music. A parent or guardian is required to accompany the child. To schedule a test, contact (239) 590-7292.

Students accepted into the program must have access to a full-sized piano with weighted keys for daily practice.

Classes for beginners will be taught by Joanne Smith, Professor Emerita from the University of Michigan School of Music and nationally-renowned children's piano pedagogy specialist.

Cost for the 28 classes is $900, with $450 payable to Florida Gulf Coast University at the beginning of each term.

For more information contact Nancy Cobb- Lippens at (239) 590-7343.

FGCU, in partnership with the Boston Brass, will also offer a wind and percussion camp June 18-20 for students in grades 9-12.

High school instrumentalists will have the opportunity to study with the Boston Brass at the camp. Students will also participate in chamber rehearsals, full rehearsals, master classes, and preparation for All State Auditions under the direction of Bower School of Music associate professor of Instrumental Music Rod Chesnutt.

The camp is limited to 50 participants. Cost for commuting campers is $150, with meals during camp hours included. Cost for campers who want to stay on campus is $250, which includes a two-night stay at the FGCU residence halls and all meals.

Registration begins at 9 a.m., Wednesday, June 18 on campus.

For more information about registration contact Chesnutt at (239) 590-7188.