It seems as if Mandarins Summer Academy was just yesterday, with a successful 2-day Guard Camp and 3-day Leadership Camp in June. Mandarins Fall Academy is making plans for its 12th year, continuing its partnership with the Sacramento State School of Music, and its location at Capistrano Hall on the campus of Sacramento State. Mandarins Fall Academy has seen incredible growth over the years, beginning with Brass Academy in 2008, and adding Guard Academyin 2009, Percussion Academy and Drum Major Academy in 2014, and Woodwind Academy in 2016. In 2017, a Leadership Development component was added for all students. This growth aligns with the Mandarins Academy mission: to further the students’ skills in technique, musicianship, performance, and leadership development, all in support of their school music program. Mandarins Fall Academy Directors and educators are committed to achieving that mission. This team consists of technicians, clinicians, and credentialed teachers experienced with elementary, middle, and high schools, colleges, performing arts, Mandarins Academy, and the Sacramento Mandarins drum corps. Educating students is their way of giving back to the community. Part of the Mandarins Academy’s unique experience is due to the Directors and educators having performed or taught with the Sacramento Mandarins drum corps – a 2018 DCI (Drum Corps International) Finalist currently on tour with expectations to return to Finals on August 10 – so the educational staff is able to expose Mandarins Academy students to the teaching method and material used by the drum corps. A portion of Mandarins Academy is focused on auditioning in general, beneficial to those auditioning for the corps or for any performing arts organization. A highlight of Mandarins Fall Academy is the Family and Friends Showcase at the end of the last session, where students perform in small ensembles and as a full ensemble. An additional performance is being looked into. This year’s dates are September 8, September 29, October 27, and November 24. Registration/check-in/set up begins at noon, and instruction is from 12:30-4pm. If you pre-register by credit card, the cost is $60 for the full season. If you pre-register by cash or check, or register at the door, the cost is $75. Click here for information. If there are any questions, email me at milt.gee@mandarins.org Milt Gee |
