Classes and Private Lessons
Arts Education - Classes, Camps and Private Lessons
The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts offers learning opportunities for all ages and abilities. Classes, workshops and private lessons in jazz, dance, drama, instrumental music, musical theater and voice and choral programs are offered year-round on our campus, in addition to performance opportunities on the Ruth Eckerd Hall stages.
Why Choose The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts?
• Students will spend a semester in the spotlight in a safe, exciting and creative environment!
• Arts and crafts sessions are taught daily by a visual arts specialist.
• Every student receives a keepsake camp photograph on their final day.
• Camps provide an opportunity for your child to explore talents, discover new friends, reunite with old ones, experience the arts with professional arts instructors, and perform in a professional setting.
Explore, Create, and Perform.
Winter and Spring registration is now available! Scroll below to enroll today.
Please call 727.712.2706 for more information.
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Music
INSTRUMENTAL JAZZ
The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts is known for setting the standard of jazz education in the Tampa Bay Area. Our program includes students from four surrounding counties, with many alumni studying in our country’s top music schools; including Berklee College of Music and the Manhattan School of Music. The Jazz Track is sponsored in part by the Clearwater Jazz Holiday Foundation.Auditions:
Students are placed in ensembles based on their knowledge of music theory, instrument proficiency and improvisation skills.
Auditions will include:
- Memorized scales: Concert Bb, Eb, Ab, Db, F, C and chromatic (two octaves)
- Memorized prepared piece, short jazz etude or standard
- Sight-reading at discretion of the instructor
- Improvisation (optional) on a 12-bar blues form in concert Bb, FMaj, (Accompaniment Track can be provided on request).
- Drummers should be able to demonstrate swing, ballad, Latin and funk.
Class Information:
Ruth Eckerd Hall Big Band I
Ages: 14-19
When: Mondays, 7:30-9pm
Tuition: $200
Classes start: January 13
Classes end: April 6
No classes January 20
End of Semester Performance on April 6Membership in the Ruth Eckerd Hall Big Bands is decided through open audition and subject to the instrumental needs of each ensemble. Literature for both of these ensembles is selected to challenge and reward students seeking to take their love of Jazz to the next level. In each ensemble, the history and development of jazz music is explored, along with tools and opportunities for developing their improvisation skills. Performance opportunities occur often throughout the Fall and Spring terms, and will be conveyed by the instructors.
Ruth Eckerd Hall Big Band II
Ages: 14-19
When: Mondays, 6-7:25pm
Tuition: $200
Classes start: January 13
Classes end: April 6
No classes January 20
End of Semester Performance on April 6
CHOIR
Whether you have spent your life dedicated to music or you only sing in the shower, if you enjoy singing, we have a choir for you! This year we are adding new groups to match every skill level.
Class Information:
Come experience the joy of singing and community building with vocalists from around Pinellas County. Chorus Members can look forward to performing a variety of musical styles and genres, in addition to potential performance opportunities outside of the class. Fall repertoire includes popular, traditional, Broadway and concert literature that is fun to sing, and gives an opportunity for members to learn and grow as musicians.Ruth Eckerd Hall Chorus
Ages: 19 and up
When: Tuesdays, 6:30-8pm
Fees: $50 (per term)
Classes start: January 14
Classes end: April 7
Need tuition assistance? Please call the Education Office at 727.712.2706
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Musical Theater
MUSICAL THEATER TRACK
Students will work with our master instructors in Dance, Music, and Theater to develop themselves into a true Triple Threat. Sections are available for multiple age levels. Their work will culminate in the Ruth Eckerd Hall Holiday Show, a fully produced event showcasing all levels. A great way to head into the holidays!
Intro To Musical Theater
Ages: 8-12
When: Wednesdays, 4:30-6pm
Tuition: $225
Classes start: January 15
Classes end: April 8
End of Semester Performance in the Murray Theatre on April 8, 2020Register
Advanced Musical Theater
Ages: 13-18
When: Wednesdays, 6-7:30pm
Tuition: $225
Classes start: January 15
Classes end: April 8
End of Semester Performance in the Murray Theatre on April 8, 2020
Need tuition assistance? Please call the Education Office at 727.712.2706
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Dance
DANCE
All dance classes will end with an open house for their final session.
Class Information:
Dance 1 (Ballet, Jazz, and Tap)
Ages: 6-11
When: Thursdays, 5-6:30pm
Tuition: $225
Classes start: January 16
Classes end: April 9Join us for a fun block of dance! Whether you love to dance on stage or just want to be fit and fun, you’ll love this class for all levels. We begin with reviewing basic and essential dance skills like rhythm, coordination, strength, flexibility, and personality. Then we’ll work on Ballet, Jazz, and Tap basics catered to the individual students’ progress.
Attire: Ballet and/or Jazz shoes, and tap shoes. Leotards (any basic color) are required for ladies which can be layered with form fitting clothes. Hair must be worn back and tights are suggested.
Dance 2 (Ballet and Jazz)
Ages: 12-18
When: Thursdays, 6:30-8:30pm
Tuition: $300
Classes start: January 16
Classes end: April 9This is a great class for those more focused on serious training for the stage. We’ll divide our time working on various dance techniques fit for the Broadway stage: Ballet, Jazz, strength, flexibility, and history. This is an open level class; we welcome beginners through advanced and will cater to the individual students’ progress. Anyone who has ever taken this class has loved it and you will too!
Attire: Ballet and/or Jazz shoes. Leotards (any basic color) with proper support are required for ladies which can be layered with form fitting clothes. Hair must be worn back and tights are suggested. Gentlemen must wear a dance belt and shorts above the knee or flexible, form fitting dance or athletic pants.
Dance 3
Ages: 12+
*Teacher approved enrollment: Must have two years dance experience with Mr. Chris or 4+ years study elsewhere.
When: Mondays, 7:30-9pm
Tuition: $225
Classes start: January 13
Classes end: April 13
No classes: January 20For those who are looking for the next level of dance training. Students accepted in this level will receive more intensive, career driven training from Mr. Chris Liddell.
TAP (Open level)
Ages: 12+
When: Mondays, 6:30-7:30pm
Tuition: $150
Classes start: January 13
Classes end: April 13
No classes: January 20All your digits can be drums! Come learn the percussive podiatric power of tap. This class is open to all skill levels for ages 12 and up. Adults included! Come feel the beat with your feet!
Attire: Tap shoes requiredRegister
Adult Beginners Ballet
Ages: 16+
When: Wednesdays, 7:30-9pm
Tuition: $225
Classes start: January 15
Classes end: April 8Dance is for all ages and skill levels. Do you want to try a new hobby without pressure? Are you looking for an entertaining way to stay active without a gym? Need to brush up on skills you learned in the past? Do you just want to dance? We’ll see you in this class!
Need tuition assistance? Please call the Education Office at 727.712.2706
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Drama / On Camera
DRAMA
The Drama program begins an updated curriculum this fall! All participants will be privy to a behind the scenes view of our resident theater company, Hat Trick Theatre Productions. Course work will be showcased at the end of the semester.
Class Information:
Drama I "Setting The Stage"
Ages: 5-7
When: Saturdays, 10am-12pm
Tuition: $225
Classes start: January 18
Classes end: April 11
End of Semester Performance in the Murray Theatre on April 11, 2020While encouraging self-expression and boosting confidence, students will begin to build the “Actor’s Toolbox” made up of the voice, the body and the imagination. Students will play numerous acting games and exercises to develop these skills. The class will perform an adaptation of an existing work at the end of the semester.
Register
Drama 2 "Building Characters"
Ages: 8-10
When: Saturdays, 10am-12pm
Tuition: $225
Classes start: January 18
Classes end: April 11
End of Semester Performance in the Murray Theatre on April 11, 2020While continuing to improve their “Actor’s Toolbox”, students will now explore what makes a character. By examining existing favorite characters, students will learn how to develop a role of their own creation. We will then take these characters “from the page to the stage” and create an original play to be performed at the end of the semester.
Register
Drama 3 "Story Creation"
Ages: 11-14
When: Saturdays, 1-3pm
Tuition: $225
Classes start: January 18
Classes end: April 11
End of Semester Performance in the Murray Theatre on April 11, 2020In this class, students will cooperate to workshop and write plays of their own! While furthering their skills as actors, students will learn to analyze plays in order to make their performances truer and more effective. Working alongside the instructor, the class will write sketches and short plays to be performed at the end of the semester.
Register
Drama 4 "Spotlighting Scene Work & Monologues"
Ages: 15-18
When: Saturdays, 1-3pm
Tuition: $225
Classes start: January 18
Classes end: April 11
End of Semester Performance in the Murray Theatre on April 11, 2020It’s time to put your skills to the test! By using scenes and monologues from published plays, students will learn to critically examine theatrical moments in order to make the best acting choices possible. Along with learning new acting methods, students will work towards a personalized showcase of scenes and monologues to be performed at the end of the semester.
ON-CAMERA CLASSES
Young Actors On Camera
Ages: 8-10
When: Mondays, 5:15-6:45PM
Tuition: $200
Classes start: January 13
Classes end: April 13
No classes January 20Opportunities to work in commercials, film and television abound in the Southeast. On camera acting differs in many ways from stage acting, and students who wish to pursue this profession must possess a unique skill set, an understanding of vocabulary, camera technique, and an awareness of the expectations of the Film/TV Industry. These classes offer opportunities to learn and develop new skills; improve your auditioning process; work with actual commercial, film, and television scripts; to be challenged and to build confidence. Participants will also receive general information regarding castings, agents, and photographers.
On-Camera Acting: Teens
Ages: 11-14
When: Wednesdays, 5:15-6:45PM
Tuition: $200
Classes start: January 15
Classes end: April 8Register
Adult On-Camera Acting
Ages: 18 and up
When: Wednesdays, 7-9:00PM
Tuition: $25 per class
Classes start: OngoingAuditions, character development, scene development, camera technique, memorization techniques, and overcoming nerves is just a small part of our class content. This class is for “newbies” and those already working in the TV/film industry; for anyone seeking a deeper connection to their roles and a higher level of work. Our overall focus is on developing and improving skills, creating a better understanding of the business, and preparing students to work professionally.
Need tuition assistance? Please call the Education Office at 727.712.2706
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Private Lessons
PRIVATE LESSONS
Private lessons are strongly encouraged for all students who wish to strengthen their performance skills. The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts offers private instruction including repertoire and literature from classical to contemporary.
Private Lesson Fees and Policies
Lesson Fees are as follows:
- $25 - $37 for 30 minutes
- $37 - $55 for 45 minutes
- $50 - $73 for 60 minutes
Please call the Education Office at 727.712.2706 for specific rates per instructor.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
- We accept credit or debit cards. For your convenience, automatic payment for private lessons is available. Lessons will not be provided without payment.
- Private Lesson Cancellation Policy: All cancellations made at least 24 hours prior to the lesson will be offered a makeup lesson. If a student misses a lesson without notifying an Education Associate in advance, or is unable to attend a scheduled makeup, a lesson fee will be charged.
- Inclement Weather Policy: Classes are occasionally cancelled due to inclement weather, and will be rescheduled.
- To cancel or reschedule a lesson contact 727.712.2706
- ONE TIME $25.00 enrollment fee is required.
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Dates & Info
Important Dates and Info
WINTER / SPRING TERM
Classes begin the week of January 9 and end the week of April 13. The final day for Drama classes will be April 11.No Classes Mon, Jan 20 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
No Classes Mar 16 - 21 for Spring Break
Missed the start date?
Some classes allow for rolling admissions at a pro-rated tuition depending on when a student joins the class. Please contact the Education Associates at 727.712.2706 for more information.
Watch for new classes popping up!
New class ideas are being explored constantly, watch for new classes added throughout the term.
Attendance Policies:
Students are expected to attend class regularly. In case of illness or family emergency, please notify our instructor prior to class through our Education Office at 727.712.2706. Students are allowed to miss 3 classes, after 3 you may not be able to participate in the final performance. -
FAQ's
FAQ’s
• Camp sizes are limited. Advanced enrollment is recommended.
• A nonrefundable enrollment fee of $25 per person is required (waived for REH members). Membership Info
• Tuition payment or tuition assistance application is due with enrollment.
• Tuition Assistance is available due to the generosity of our sponsor, the Tampa Bay Times Fund and its commitment that no child shall be denied an arts experience because of financial need. Apply early! Please call 727.712.2706 for details and eligibility requirements. More Info
• Payment plans are available with credit card only.
• Drop-Off/Pick-Up Procedures: Procedures will be sent to you approximately two weeks prior to the first day of your camp.
• Refunds or credits will be given ONLY if a class is canceled due to insufficient enrollment, in which case fees and tuition will be refunded in full.
• Schedule, instructors, and prices are subject to change.