2012 Session A (June 18 - 29)
Math, Science, Technology
Algebra and Trigonometry: Gateway to Calculus
This comprehensive and challenging course prepares the students for the SAT and ACT as well as calculus. It is structured to meet the ever-increasing demands of the mathematics classroom and the ever-increasing variety in the needs and interests of students. Function is the underlying and unifying concept of almost every topic in this course: polynomial, logarithmic, exponential, and circular. Language is clarified by concisely worded definitions and explanations. The greatest contribution a course at this level can make to learning calculus is to provide a firm foundation through topics such as limit and continuity. This course is designed to challenge and motivate students who want to deepen and expand their knowledge of mathematics.
Abdomohammed Karimi: BS math, U of Jondi Shahpour; BS, aerospace and mechanical engineering, U of MN; MA, math and physical science, U of St. Thomas…currently teaches math and AP physics at Como Park HS, St. Paul.
Body and Environment
As a student biologist, you will learn and understand how all aspects of the natural world interact. We’ll study how an organism is dependent on the efficient functioning of its body systems and how those systems are affected [positively and negatively] – by their environment. We will use discussion, hands-on activities, and dissection to develop a greater understanding of how these systems perform extraordinary functions. We will also explore how organisms are affected by both their biological (parasites and diseases) and physical environment (air/water quality and ecosystems). At the end of this two week adventure, student biologists will be able to demonstrate how body systems function independently and collectively, and how different environmental conditions alter how our systems work.
Kaarin Schumacher: BA, biology, Saint Olaf College; MA, education, St. Mary’s University; currently teaches Biology, Anatomy, and AP Biology at Woodbury High School.  .
CSI: MITY
Have you ever thought about becoming a forensic scientist? Have you wanted to examine documents and analyze fingerprints and DNA? Here’s your chance to learn and practice some of the scientific techniques forensic scientists use to solve crimes. Forensic scientists are trained to use science as it relates to the law. We will learn about evidence, how to collect and process it, how to analyze DNA and fingerprints, and how to solve the clues left at a crime scene. We’ll talk to experts in forensics. We’ll also look at the legal and ethical issues involved in crime solving. Students should have basic curiosity and a problem solving attitude.
Jennifer Magdal: BS, Chemistry, University of MN, M.Ed., University of MN. Teaches 9th grade forensics/physical science and IB chemistry at St. Louis Park Senior High.
Electricity and Engineering
Every day we interact with hundreds of electronic devices without thinking about it. This hands-on course will show how electronics and mechanics are used to engineer solutions to the world's problems. Specifically, we will investigate one of the more interesting applications in engineering: robotics. We will also explore questions such as: How do circuits work; How do magnets convert electricity to motion; How do linkages acheive a desired motion? Also, there will be an introduction to the various engineering disciplines and the roles engineers play in high-tech orgainizations. If you have ever looked at electronics or mechanisms and wondered, "How does that work?" this will be the class for you. Hopefully you will come away with some answers and a lot more questions.
Kale Hedstrom MS Electrical Engineering, University of Minnesota, BA Physics, Hamline University. Kale is the Lab Services Coordinator in the Aerospace Engineering Department at the University of Minnesota, a math and science tutor for St. Paul Public Schools, and a robotics mentor for the FIRST Robotics competition. He has worked for various companies in the Twin Cities in the area of sensors and embedded systems programming. His hobbies include bicycling, traveling, and reading.
Math and Programming: Let the Games Begin!
Did you ever wonder how that video game was really made? In this class you will uncover the mystery behind video games and create one of your very own. It will be complete with tunnels, ramps, and whatever else you can dream up. Yes, this class is all about games. Did I mention Mini golf? Bring your putter and Let the Games Begin! So, where’s the math? It’s everywhere! We will use algebra topics to move the ball, and geometry to bounce it off the wall. Throw in some linear equations, Pythagorean theorems, random integers, and inequalities and we all start to see the math method behind the madness of programming. Prerequisite: Algebra 1 or instructor’s approval. Please bring your own TI83 or TI84 if you have one.
Scott Greseth: BA, mathematics and accounting, Luther College; MA, education, U of St. Thomas… Middle School Math teacher at Maplewood MS…currently high potential coordinator and teaches advanced math at Maplewood MS.
Physics Phenomena
This class explores how and why objects move the way they do. Spend the time to learn what the laws of Physics mean and then apply them, pick them apart, and experience their implications. We will examine the simplest sorts of motion, figure out the forces involved and apply them to real life situations. Why do you feel the way you do when riding a high-speed elevator? How fast is a roller coaster? Does gravity act the same on all bodies? How do rockets actually work, and can you build one that will actually launch? Your mathematical skills will be honed with actual data, collected with a variety of equipment. Field trips to a local amusement park and other off-campus activities are anticipated.
Bob Murphy:: BS Astrophysics and MEd Science Education. 30 years of physics teaching experience both in MN and overseas. Currently teaching IB/AP Physics at St. Paul Central High School.
Seeing Things with Cameras and Computers
This class is all about how to see and be seen. We will use still and video cameras and the computer in creative ways to see things and express ourselves. We will discover many ways of seeing people, ideas, relationships, feelings, music and nature. We will learn how to see a good idea and creatively express it with words and images. We will make a media rich montage of still photographs, writing and videos. We will share our work on social media like Facebook and TUMBLR. We will explore some of the consequences and effects of social media. The class is designed for students at all skill levels. No previous technical experience is necessary.
Mike Hazard: BA art, English, Macalester College…photographs, writes, and directs nationally telecast TV programs…creates unique multimedia installations in museums, storefronts and art galleries…aka Media Mike.
Session A - Hummanities
All Roads Lead to Rome: An Introduction to Latin and to Roman Culture
Is Latin a dead language? Minime! That's Latin for "No way!" Latin and the culture of ancient Rome are very much alive in our own language and society. In fact, 60% of the English language comes from Latin. Using the Cambridge Latin course, we will learn the fundamentals of the Latin language with special emphasis on word roots, suffixes, prefixes and vocabulary building. We will also study ancient Roman—its art, songs, customs, architecture and myths. An "architectural scavenger hunt" in downtown St. Paul and a visit to the Minneapolis Institute of Art's art collection will be two highlights of this course. An authentic Roman banquet will be the culmination of this course!
Mary Rossini: BA Classical Studies, Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska, Latin Ed/English Ed. U of MN; MA candidate in English, U of MN …currently teaching at Mounds Park Academy.
Beyond Twitter
To get into the college of your choice and then land that dream job you will need to know how to present yourself well. In this course you will master the art of the interview. You will learn how to focus your response to questions and how to ask questions that get you the answers you need. We will be working with video cameras so you will be able to watch as you improve your communication skills. You will learn that everything about how you look, how you sound and how you act sends a message. We will study the differences in the way males and females communicate. We will also work resume and letter writing. Our guest speakers will be people who use interview skills in their professions and people who are frequently interviewed. We will also invite wardrobe and style consultants to our class for their advice. If your parents were taking this course we would call it “Communication Skills for the Busy Executive.” When you are done with this course you should be ready to face those tough interviews in your future.
Karen Boros: Former broadcast and print reporter… has taught journalism at U of St. Thomas…more than a decade as a political reporter at WCCO TV… correspondent for CBS News…State Capitol reporter for Minnesota Public Radio…got her start in the news business at the Chicago Daily News.
Creative Writing: "Stories are light. Tell...a story. Make some light."
Be you India Opal Buloni, a soldier brave and true (and a boy of ten), Edward Tulane almost entirely made of china, a dirty dog named for a grocery store, a small mouse (named for sadness) with ears too big, or even a princess named Pea we hope you will join us as we celebrate a decade of dancing with wondrous words. Kevin and Mike would love to see you as MITY writers embark yet again on our own miraculous journey. Like Despereaux we will challenge ourselves to confront foes and forms, knowing our poems, stories, essays, and peers will lead us back to the light. As always we will be swept away, though hopefully not overboard like Edward, in the whackiness and wonder of MITY time. In the end, though, we will wend our ways back home, though our journeys and jottings may have led us far afield. Perhaps, soup may even be served, regardless of any laws against it - or at least a stew seasoned with the special strengths of stunning MITY minds.
Kevin Lally: Loves BA English, St. John’s U: enrolled MA ED at the U of M. Currently teaching English, journalism, and speech at Cretin-Derham Hall.
Ellie Roscher: BA, Gustavus Adolphus, MA, Luther Seminary. After year long adventures in Denver, CO and Uruguay, she is back in St. Paul teaching and coaching at Cretin-Derham Hall, writing, and traveling.
Experimental Economics
Have you ever wondered why people buy bottled water when tap water is just as good? Or why families in Africa typically have many more children, while in wealthier societies like Japan the birthrate is so low. Or why athletes and entertainers get paid so much, while teachers and nurses get paid so little? In this course, you’ll learn that economics is about much more than money, the stock market, unemployment and inflation. It’s about how and why people make the decisions they do. Economists know that we can’t have it all, so we’re constantly facing choices. Study or play outside? Learn piano or guitar? Take a European vacation or buy a new car? In this course, we will use simulations, games, experiments and current events to learn and apply the economic way of thinking. At the end of two weeks, student economists will be experts in analyzing the problem of scarcity and applying it to current economic issues, as well as to their own decisionmaking processes.
Martha Rush: BA Political Science, University of Michigan, MA History,University of Minnesota. Currently teaches introductory economics, AP Macroeconomics and AP Microeconomics at Mounds View High School.
Say What?
This speech course is designed for any talented youth—whether you like to dazzle people with data, persuade them with passion, move them with melodrama, or lighten their moods with laughter. This course will help you overcome and cope with stage jitters, give you the confidence needed in any public speaking situation, hone your communication skills, and allow you to explore various types of speech and performance. The beginner speaker will be able to start to show off his/her new skills in a safe environment; the intermediate speaker will be stretched to new levels; and the advanced speaker will have an opportunity to further his/her skills. We will have several experts share their knowledge, watch national high-school competitors, and enjoy lots of activities and games.
Rob DuBois: BA theatre, University of Minnesota. Currently teaches language arts, directs plays, and coaches Speech Team at St. Anthony Village High School.
World Religions
World Religions is a survey course which introduces students to the study of religion as well as the world’s five major religious traditions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Teacher-created Power Point presentations, articles, excerpts from textbooks, student Internet research, guest speakers, and field trips are included to help students gain an understanding of each tradition’s history, main beliefs, and impact on the world. The following four areas are used as framework to understand and compare each religious tradition:
- What is the nature of the “ultimate”? What is the ultimate reality?
- Who are we as human beings? In what ways are we “good”?
- What has “gone wrong” with us?
- What is the nature of redemption? How is human life restored to wholeness?
- What is the nature of the spiritual life? How is life to be lived within the context of the new redemption?
Susan Olsen: BA, English and religion, St. Olaf College. MA in Adlerian Counseling and Psychotherapy, Adler Graduate School. Former English Teacher at Eastview High School, currently a School Counselor at Eagan High School.
Session A - Arts
Acting Symposium
Acting Symposium introduces students to many of the disciplines and methods of acting, including stage and on camera work. Acting as a career will be discussed, and students will have the opportunity to work with professional actors from the Twin Cities area. An interest in theater and a willingness to perform on stage and on camera are important prerequisites for the course. Activities will include work with both improvisation and scripted pieces. Music and movement will be included. The workshop will culminate with a presentation of selected class activities.
Ross Young: MEd, English Ed, U of MN…has appeared and directed at Hey City Stage, Dudley Riggs’ theater; and other area stages…currently teaches English at Osseo Area Learning Center…works as an actor, director, and commercial talent in the Twin cities.
The Art of Film Making
In this class we will examine techniques used in filmmaking. Students will watch and discuss classic films and look at the artistic techniques and film theory used to produce these works. Students will examine the dramatic effects used in filmmaking, such as stop motion animation, lighting, and sound and how these effects work together to make a story visual. This course will provide students with the basic tools and methods for film making, and film critique. The goal is to conceive, storyboard, shoot, edit and produce, in cooperative groups, a short film.
Cecily Spano: BA, painting, College of St. Benedict’s, MED, U of MN. Cecily Spano was named “Minneapolis teacher of the year” in 2006. She has been teaching drawing, painting, and IB art at Minneapolis’ Southwest HS. Her students have won countless national awards.
David West: BA, liberal arts, Metro State U, MA, Education, U of St. Thomas, Director with Dream Guild Theatre Company and Hillcrest Community Theatre, as well as 20 years experience directing school plays and musicals… Storyteller, musician, playwright, and actor…currently teaching English and Theatre at Southwest HS, Minneapolis.
MITY Jazz
The Jazz program is a concentrated study of jazz music and performance. Based on auditions, students are placed in one of two big bands and a combo. Music listening, jazz history, jazz technique and style, and improvisation are an integral part of the daily schedule for these groups. Visiting guest artists demonstrate and teach techniques, style and interpretation through demonstration and discussion.
Public performances are important to these classes. Both bands will play for several audiences. MITY Jazz ends with evening performances in the Janet Wallace Concert Hall at Macalester College. Auditions are required for all applicants and determine acceptance into the class. Audition dates will be determined in February. Applicants will be contacted by email with addition information and to schedule auditions. Indicate on your application the instrument you play.
Scott Carter: BA music ed, U of M…trumpet player… director of bands at Minneapolis South High School.
Corey Needleman: BM, music ed., U of M...percussionist, director of bands and orchestra at Ramsey JH, St. Paul.
Chris Thomson: BA, music ed, U of M… saxophonist, active professional jazz musician in the Twin Cities.
2012 Session B (July 9 - July 20)
Session B – Math, Science, Technology
Astrophysics: Light, Waves, and the Physics of Stars
Human beings have always been intrigued by the stars in the night sky. How can we claim to know so much about objects that are so far away from our planet? The answer? Astrophysics Examine the science behind “light” and electromagnetic waves. Use Reflection and Refraction to understand how lenses and mirrors work; combine these optical elements to learn about telescopes. Other activities include analysis of the motion of local objects (Moon, Sun, etc) as well as an optional late-night observation session in the Macalester Observatory. Use computer simulations and other resources to learn about how stars form, evolve, and finish their life in our universe. A field trip to the Bunker Hills Wave Pool is anticipated.
Bob Murphy: BS Astrophysics and MEd Science Education. 30 years of physics teaching experience both in MN and overseas. Active amateur astronomer. Currently teaching IB/AP Physics at St. Paul Central High School.
Chemistry is a Blast!
Explore the world of chemistry in an outstanding Macalester lab. In two short weeks, you will investigate many of the topics reserved for high school chemistry. You will experiment with wondrous materials and find out what makes them tick. You will discover the balancing forces of nature. You will take a look into the nature of matter itself. This class is all about labs: Develop your fingerprints with iodine! Freeze marshmallows with dry ice! Measure the energy content of different foods by burning them! Titrate vinegar to measure its acid content! Dissolve styrofoam! Create slime! Bring your questions and your curiosity. When we combine fun experiments with useful information, using a catalyst of curiosity, the product is some real chemistry! Will there be explosions? YES!
Melissa Baker: BA, Biochemistry, UM Morris… M.Ed., University of MN…teaches 9th grade physical science and chemistry at Delano HS. Enjoys judging and coaching gymnastics and running races.
Jennifer Magdal: BS, Chemistry, University of MN, M.Ed., University of MN. Teaches 9th grade forensics/physical science and IB chemistry at St. Louis Park Senior High.
Energy Explorations and Alternatives
Have you wondered how fuel cells work? Are you interested in the design and testing of wind turbine blades, solar powered cars and solar thermal technologies? This class will explore the many faces of energy and how they are and could be used by a modern society. All students will be involved in a series of hands-on activities, projects and contests as we explore this most essential area of interest in today’s modern world.
Michael Thomsen: BA – Biology, MA.Ed Science Education, Hamline University. Currently teaching physical science, 6th grade science, Anatomy and Environmental Education at Mounds Park Academy.
FORENSICS-You Can't Get Away With Anything!!!
How would you like to learn about normal and abnormal brain functions and characteristics of notorious serial killers? Maybe you would like to learn how investigators interrogate suspects. Maybe lying and polygraph techniques interest you. Forensics-You Can't Get Away With Anything- will take you through an in depth journey exploring such topics as handwriting analysis, blood splatter analysis, the secret art of surveillance, making and breaking secret codes, and much more! A Special field trip to the Ramsey County Adult Detention Center where the SWAT team trains will complete the experience. Join us for a rigorous exploration of Forensics and learn why-You Can't Get Away With Anything!!!
Mary Hanson: BA, Chemistry, Physics, Physical Science-U of WI-River Falls. Four times recognized in Who's Who Among America's Teachers, and in the National Honor Society-Outstanding America's Teachers-premier publication 2005-2006. Member of NAIS-National Association of Investigative Specialists, SPPD Reserve Police Officer. Currently teaching Chemistry, Pre-AP Chemistry, AP Chemistry, and Forensic Science at Arlington HS, St. Paul.
Mathematics of Music
Music has pitch, harmony, rhythm, and many other dimensions. This class explores the many ways that mathematics can be used to understand what makes music tick. We will study a variety of music, including classical, popular, jazz, rock, and world music. Like everyone else I have my preferences, but my goal is to teach methods that you can use to analyze your own favorites in music. There will be plenty of time for students to present analyses of their own using the methods we describe in the course. We will use a variety of free musical software, with lots of hands-on audio processing of music. Attention will be paid to methods of creating new music, and analyzing performance (for those students who play an instrument). We will have a session of performances for those students who wished to record themselves in performance, and we will use those performances as examples in the course. It should be great fun. For further info, go to www.uwec.edu/walkerjs/MITY/
James S. Walker: Dr. Walker is Professor of Mathematics at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, where he has taught since 1982. He received his doctorate in mathematics from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1982. He has published several papers on mathematics and music, and three mathematics texts. His latest book on mathematics and music will be published by Taylor & Francis in 2013.
Pre-Calculus
This course covers topics that traditionally follow an algebra course and are arranged in two broad components:
Component 1 covers elementary functions. These include polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric (circular) functions and their combinations. A section covers sequences, series and combinatorial problems, and eventually moves into differential
Component 2 contains a treatment of plane geometry including vectors. The usual work with lines and planes is presented along with concepts dealing with conic sections, other coordinate systems, and parametric representation of curves and surfaces. Prerequisites: Algebra and trigonometry (either completed or taken simultaneously); student must be extremely motivated and a team worker.
Abdomohammed Karimi: BS, math, U of Jondi Shahpour; BS, aerospace and mechanical engineering, U of MN; MA, math and physical science, U of St. Thomas…currently teaches math and AP physics at Como Park HS, St. Paul.
Session B - Humanities
BEGINNING DEBATE
Have you ever pictured yourself as a lawyer defending clients or prosecuting an accused person? Can you see yourself persuading the Congress to vote for your proposed law? Do you enjoy learning and arguing about controversial issues? Do you like to win arguments with others and impress your teachers in class debates? You will learn how to research, argue, and speak effectively on controversial issues using different debate formats. You will use your skills to persuade debate judges and convince audiences to accept your ideas. You will gain that will help you in high school, college, your future career and life. This class is for students with little or no debate experience. You should be interested in researching, working with other students, and speaking in front of audiences.
Bob Ihrig: BA history, Macalester College; MA history, MN State U, Mankato… coached high school debate from 1973 to 1999… currently teaching at Mankato West HS.
Gail Sarff: BA, speech and communications, U of Iowa, MA English and education, U of MN…has coached debate for 33 years in Iowa and Minnesota… currently teaching at Wayzata HS.
Mock Trial and Current Legal Issues
Are you interested in the legal system? Do you enjoy discussing issues? Do you want to improve your public speaking skills? If you do you should take the exciting new course: Mock Trial. Taught by a former trial attorney and a history teacher, this course takes you inside the courtroom, to learn what it’s like to be an attorney, or a witness in this exciting setting. You will spend time exploring fact situations and legal issues, and will participate in two full-length mock trials, one civil and criminal. Guest speakers with experience in competitive mock trial, as well as the legal system will help deepen your understanding. This course is perfect for students interested in performance, debate, speech, or the legal system.
Tom Fones: BA, Political Science, Macalester College; JD, William Mitchell College of Law…Currently teaching Law & Justice Seminar at St. Paul Academy and Summit School…Has previously taught debate workshop at MITY.
Pstimulating Psummer Psychology
How is it that you remember a conversation from seven years ago, but forget the quadratic formula when you need it on a quiz? What determines what you like and dislike? Is your personality something you’re born with or does it change over time? Are dreams your brain’s way of telling you something? In this course we examine a variety of topics including learning, memory, intelligence, nature vs. nurture, states of consciousness, emotion, psychological development and personality. We will look at the theories of Freud, Watson, Skinner, Jung, Erikson and others to help discover why we are the way we are. Personal inventories, lively class discussions, and numerous experiments will help us gain a better understanding of ourselves and others.
Susan Olsen: BA, English and religion, St. Olaf College. MA in Adlerian Counseling and Psychotherapy, Adler Graduate School. Former English Teacher at Eastview High School, currently a School Counselor at Eagan High School.
Social Issues and Actions
Using the study of sociology and culture as a foundation, students in this course will become more familiar with the unique community of the Twin Cities by experiencing the diverse cultures and perspectives the metro area has to offer. Additionally, this course will offer students the opportunity to take part in getting involved in the community and making a positive impact on the lives of those they encounter. Students will learn the fundamentals of sociology, local political structures, and cultural groups represented in the area. Students will also gain experience identifying and confronting various social issues through research and action. Young people looking to positively influence the world around them will learn valuable knowledge and skills that will enable them to go out and make a difference.
Nickie McKeever: B.A. in History and American Racial and Multicultural Studies, St. Olaf College; Grades 5-12 Social Studies Teaching Licensure, Metropolitan State College of Denver; M.A. in Education, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota; currently teaches social studies at Edina High School.
Write Stuff: Produce, Polish and Publish
Get to write, including in a college computer lab. Get your creative writing abilities stretched. Get how to break through writer’s block. Get to look at it again and again to make it better (ReReRe*Vision). Get constructive feedback from a professional writer. Conference. Get to meet with a professional editor. Get fellow young writers who love to write. Leave with ideas and experience and confidence. Leave with your writing polished and ready to publish, a professional cover letter, a list of names and addresses of likely markets looking for YOUR writing. Leave a submission package in the mailbox. Leave the world changed.
Jack Kreitzer: BS, U of SD, Medical School, U of SD….rumored to be the secret identity of Wordman, is a poet, educator, and catalyst…published six volumes of poetry, taught creativity at universities. Currently working as a writing specialist and artist-in-residence in Minnesota schools.
Session B – Arts
Architecture and Place
When people buy and furnish a home, or when they make a space on a table to do homework, or find a seat on the bus, they are constructing places that meet their emotional and physical needs. Architects do the same things, with more permanent materials. This course will introduce students to how architects see the world, and the tools they use to study it. Students will explore architecture through drawing, model making, computer models, and critical questioning. Studio reviews, an opportunity for students to present and review work, will introduce students to the vocabulary of architecture: site, material, structure, scale, form, and space. Students are challenged to see inside their work. What is it like to be there? Photography and computer rendering are used to increase engagement. Past field trips include visits to a home by Frank Lloyd Wright, and a public space by Maya Lin.
Ted MacLeod: BA, Mathematics, Studio Arts, Magna Cum Laude, Macalester College; M of Arch., U of MN. 13 years in Architectural practice.
The Improvisation Project
Come try a class where our work is our play! We’ll think on our feet, have fun meeting new people and nurture our imaginations while creating theatre out of thin air. There’s singing, dancing, stage combat, acting challenges, and comedic stunts of astonishing proportions! We take a group of diverse people who may not know each other or know a lot about improvisation, and in two short weeks, we’re performing a completely improvised show together like we’ve been a troupe for years. A great choice for the budding or seasoned actor, but also for anyone who wants to experience fresh and useful ways of interacting with new friends, The Improvisation Project is an event!
David West: BA, liberal arts, Metro State U, MA, Education, U of St. Thomas, Director with Dream Guild Theatre Company and Hillcrest Community Theatre, as well as 20 years experience directing school plays and musicals… Storyteller, musician, playwright, and actor…currently teaching English and Theatre at Southwest HS, Minneapolis.
Nicole Kronzer: BFA theatre, U of WI—Stevens Point, Education, U of MN—Twin Cities…long-time professional improvisational actor and teacher in the Twin Cities with such groups as the Brave New Workshop, The Great American History Theatre, Stevie Ray’s Comedy Troupe, and Gremlin Theatre…currently teaching English and directing plays at Champlin Park HS, Champlin, MN.
Lyric Theater Magic! (Musicals, Operettas, and Operas)
Hit Musicals! Hot Operas! West Side Story and Romeo and Juliet! Join the lyric theater team of James and Melinda McKeel as you perform fully-staged songs and scenes from the greatest musicals, operettas, and operas of all time! We start with an introduction to the rich history of lyric theater and then begin two exciting weeks of individual and group instruction and rehearsals in drama, music, improvisation, and singing. We end with a fast-paced and entertaining lyric theater performance for family, friends, and your MITY peers. We are looking for talented young singer/actors who enjoy working in a supportive, challenging, and creative environment! When you send in your application and recommendation, remember to tell us the following:
- Are you a soprano, alto, tenor, or bass?
- Do you read music?
- Do you play any instruments?
James McKeel: Professor of Music, St. Olaf College…teacher, director, performer, and composer…has performed over 80 roles with Minnesota Opera Company, Santa Fe Opera, Muny Opera, England’s Aldeburgh Festival, Guthrie Theater, Minnesota and St. Paul Chamber Orchestras… currently teaching Opera Workshop, Acting for the Lyric Stage, and Performance Studies and has composed and premiered over 70 major musical works.
Melinda McKeel: BA Music Ed., Westminster College…Owner - Melinda McKeel Piano Studio. Pianist/coach in opera, musical theater…director choral and instrumental ensembles…performances at Schubert Club, Hennepin Music Series, St. Olaf College ,U of MN.
Studio Art: Personal Vision through Visual Communication
Developing an artistic personal vision and expression will be the focus of this course. The elements and principles of drawing and painting will be explored through line, space, shape, value, perspective, proportion and composition. You will use a variety of media such as pencil, charcoal, ink, pastel and acrylic paint and experiment with a range of techniques, including silk painting. The first week we will cover such basics as still life, the human figure, portraits, and landscapes. The second week you will work on communicating artistically around themes and issues that are important to you. This is an intensive studio art class which will include demonstrations and class critiques.
Prerequisite: Students new to the class must submit one to two examples of their strongest works: a self-portrait and/or a still life
Cecily Spano: BA, painting, College of St. Benedict’s, MED, U of MN. Cecily Spano was named “Minneapolis teacher of the year” in 2006. She has been teaching drawing, painting, and IB art at Minneapolis’ Southwest HS. Her students have won countless national awards.
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