Music

Orchestra Revisited
For those who have fond memories of playing in the orchestra in middle school and high school and would like to revisit those good old times, now’s your chance! Meg Collins Stoop will direct an ensemble class with orchestral music suited to the instrumentalists signed up to take the class. Students will supply their own instruments and music stands, and will pay a music fee of approx. $20 at the first class. Meg Collins Stoop has an M.A. in music composition, is conductor of the Adesso Choral Society, and teaches music theory at the Westport School of Music. Please indicate your instrument on the registration form.
6 Sessions $71 (Ridgefield Sr./Disab. $36) + $ Mtls.
Wed., 4/23, 30; 5/7, 14, 21 & 28; 7:30 to 9:00 p.m.; ERMS

Learn to Play the Didgeridoo!
The didgeridoo is an ancient wind instrument from Australia. It is very easy to play, no matter how old or young you are. It does not require any musical skill. Playing the didgeridoo has many positive effects on your health. It frees up your breathing. It makes your body feel alive through its vibration. It reduces stress. It helps you center and calm down, just like meditation does. Playing the didgeridoo is also the best preparation to playing brass instruments like the trumpet and trombone. But the most important thing: playing the didgeridoo is FUN. You may purchase a didgeridoo from the instructor at class for $10. Taught by Brigitte Pohl-Knijff. Brigitte Pohl-Knijff has a degree in Health Arts and Science and a Diplomate of the Institute for Music and Health in New York, where she learned to play the didgeridoo and how to use it for a healing purpose. She has taught many healing card and didgeridoo workshops.
2 Sessions $24 (Ridgefield Sr./Disab. $12) + $ materials
Please call (203) 431-9995 for fall 2008 dates.

America’s History Through Songs and Musicals, Part 2
History, music, and movies -- what could be more fun than seeing the history of the 20th century through its popular culture? In these three sessions, we will review the tragedies, triumphs, mood, fads, and trends in America from 1950 to 1970, through the great songs from movies, musicals, television, and records. This was a pivotal period in the history of the USA and its popular music - a time of both The Sound of Music and “The Sounds of Silence.” The dreams of the nation arereflected in movie musicals such as The Sound of Music and its counter culture is displayed in songs such as “The Sounds of Silence.” Come listen, learn, and sing along. Taught by Michael Garber. Taught by Michael Garber. Michael Garber, PhD, is a theatre and film historian, lecturer on popular music, and a leader of community music outreach programs.
3 Sessions $36 (Ridgefield Sr./Disab. $18)
Please call (203) 431-9995 for fall 2008 dates.