Classes & Ensembles
Join us in the Christ-centered pursuit of
Truth, Goodness, and Beauty.
Now Enrolling Fall Classes
New Dance Classes for
Toddlers, Teens, and Adults
Musikgarten
Musikgarten® — The Cycle of Seasons (3 – 5 years with parent)
Tuesdays 8:35 – 9:20 am (Oct–May)
Class Fee: $60/mo.
Supply Fee: $60
Instructor: Mrs. Marissa Dunn
Celebrate your preschooler’s growing independence and love of the outdoors with musical activities in The Cycle of Seasons. Developed to build attention and musical expression, this class will include singing, chanting, moving, focused listening, musical games, exploring musical instruments, creative movement, and storytelling. The Cycle of Seasons nurtures your growing child’s ability to use language and participate in dramatic play within a musical context. Musikgarten is designed with the belief that all children are musical and that musical exposure at a young age will train and grow their brains through movement and listening.
Pre-Ballet
Creative Movement — Pre-Ballet (3.5 – 5 years)
Tuesdays 11:00 am – 11:55 pm (Oct–May)
Class Fee: $60/mo.
Instructor: Mrs. Ingrid LaVoie
This “my first” ballet class is structured upon classical ballet principles and is geared towards the littlest of dancers. Creative movement phrases allow for play and exploration while the student learns how to listen, follow directions and copy body movements. Little dancers will have fun moving to music and learning exercises that develop coordination, flexibility, and strength. Through the means of story time, imaginative props, and dress-up, little ones will be introduced to the inherent beauty of dance and joy in the Lord and Creator of all things beautiful.
Dress code: Purple or pink leotard with/or without wrap-over skirt, pink tights, pink ballet slippers with laces tucked in, and hair in a bun.
Primary Ballet
Creative Movement — Primary Ballet (JrK & K)
Tuesdays 3:30-4:25 pm (Oct–May)
Class Fee: $70/mo.
Supply Fee: $20
Instructor: Mrs. Ingrid LaVoie
Little dancers will learn to enjoy a creative and playful approach to the basics of classical ballet. Building on positions and postures, young students will progress to more advanced exercises at the barre and on the floor with an emphasis on the sheer joy of movement to music. Through the use of creative and lively dance exercises and dance stories, dancers will grow in their understanding of posture and alignment, musicality, strength, and grace. Dance is a gift from God, and we will explore what it means to delight in this good gift and to glorify our Creator through movement.
Dress code: Pink leotard with/or without wrap-over skirt, pink tights, pink ballet slippers with laces tucked in, and hair in a bun.
Ballet Foundations
Introductory Class for First-Time and Beginning Dancers
Foundations A (grades 1-3)
Thursday 3:30-4:25 pm (Oct–May)
Class Fee: $70/mo.
Supply Fee: $20
Instructor: Mrs. Emily Sana
Foundations B (grades 4-6)
Monday 3:30-4:25 pm (Oct–May)
Class Fee: $70/mo.
Supply Fee: $20
Instructor: Mrs. Ingrid LaVoie
Foundations Teen/Adult
Wednesday 4:30-5:25 pm (Oct–May)
Class Fee: $70/mo.
Supply Fee: $20
Instructor: Mrs. Emily Sana
Ballet Foundation classes offer the perfect entry point for dancers of all ages, both true beginners and returning students who are in the process of laying the foundation of classical ballet. Emphasis will be placed on mastery of fundamental ballet positions and moving through positions with proper posture and fluency. Students will learn French ballet terminology and progress from simple movement combinations to the fluent expression of more advanced choreography aimed to grow the dancer in musicality, strength, flexibility, and poise. This careful laying of a foundation will give students a chance to grow in their artistry and love for the structure and joy of classical ballet while developing a deep appreciation of dance as a gift from God.
Dress codes: Pink leotard (Found. A) / Black leotard (Found. B & Teen) with/or without wrap-over skirt, pink or black tights or black leggings, pink ballet slippers with laces tucked in, and hair in a bun. Optional: Cross-over cardigan
Ballet Technique
Technique Class for Experienced Dancers (by invitation/audition only)
Technique A (1st – 4th grade)
Tuesdays 4:30-5:25 pm (Oct–May)
Class Fee: $70/mo.
Supply Fee: $30
Instructor: Mrs. Ingrid LaVoie
Technique B (4th – 7th grade)
Thursdays 4:30-5:25 pm (Oct–May)
Class Fee: $70/mo.
Supply Fee: $30
Instructor: Mrs. Emily Sana
Ballet Technique classes are the first opportunity for advancement in our Conservatory Dance Program. Dancers with one or more years of training in our Foundations classes (or equivalent experience) will be invited to join Technique classes once they have shown age-appropriate fluency of movement and an understanding of ballet positions and vocabulary. Technique students will grow in strength, poise, body alignment, turnout, flexibility, and creative expression by building on that foundation. The focus of the class will be to dance “for beauty and glory” (Exodus 28: 2, 40) as an act of worship to God. Drawing on students’ understanding of classical ballet, this class will progress to more advanced exercises at the barre and center floor with an emphasis on the joy of graceful, coordinated movement and the musical expression of longer phrases.
Dress code: Burgundy leotard with/or without wrap-over skirt, pink tights, pink ballet slippers with laces tucked in, and hair in a bun. Optional: Cross-over cardigan.
Musical Theatre Dance
Dance Explorations — Musical Theatre Dance (5th – 12th grade)
Mondays 4:30-5:25 pm (Oct–May)
Class Fee: $70/mo.
Supply Fee: $30
Instructor: Mrs. Ingrid LaVoie
In this class, participants will work on storytelling through dance as they learn combinations set to classic musical theatre pieces. We will emphasize technique and explore stylized choreography while working on developing dance fundamentals (classical dance training) and musical theatre dance skills. Students will gain confidence and strength through stretching and conditioning exercises, followed by jazz elements, tap dance basics, and theatre dance. The class will also serve the serious dancer who wants to learn the terminology of choreography, and prepare for auditions and the school musical in spring.
Dress code: [Girls] Ankle-length, black yoga pants w/loosely fitting T-shirt, and hair in a pony tail. Optional: Jazz shoes. [Boys] Black joggers w/loosely fitting T-shirt, hair out of eyes. Optional: Jazz shoes.
Dance Conditioning/Barre
Dance Explorations — Dance Conditioning/Barre (Adult)
Mondays 11:00 am – 11:55 pm (Oct–May)
Class Fee: $60/mo.
Instructor: Mrs. Ingrid LaVoie
This class is for adults who are looking for a toning, body-weight-lifting workout, and is especially ideal if you’re just getting into or back to exercise. The classes will improve your balance, build strength, make you more flexible, burn calories, and improve stability through a stronger core. As you get more comfortable and fit you will be able to engage muscles you wouldn’t normally target, allowing you to fine-tune your muscles for a well-toned, healthy body – all in a supportive setting that focuses on Beauty, Truth, and Goodness. While this is a ballet-inspired fitness class, no ballet experience is required. The goal is to love the Lord our God through supportive, dance-based conditioning.
Dress code: Yoga pants of any color w/loosely fitting T-shirt or any combination of comfortable, modest athletic wear.
Ballroom Dance
Dance Explorations — Ballroom Dance (7th grade – Adult)
Mondays 5:45-6:45 pm [8 sessions]
Fall (October 7 – December 2) | Winter (January 6 – March 3) | Spring (March 10 – May 5)
Class Fee: $180/couple, $100/single
Instructor: Mark and Ingrid LaVoie
This class is an introduction to the beauty and harmony of partnering in dance. Dancers will learn the “lead & follow” principles of ballroom dance in a supportive and joyful setting. We will explore the stylistic techniques and figures of some of the most beautiful dances in the ballroom world (first and foremost the Waltz), while gaining the experience of trust and respect as the basis for partner dancing. Additional benefits will come from learning about form, posture, alignment, musicality, styling, and floor craft. This is the perfect class for teens who want to learn about Ballroom culture and adult couples who have always wanted to learn to dance together.
Dress code: [Gentlemen] Slacks with a polo or dress shirt, light dress shoes (ideally with leather soles). [Ladies] Skirts/Dresses reaching just above or below the knee with a blouse, character shoes or ballerina slippers (ideally with a 1-inch heel and leather soles). Optional: Ballroom shoes.
Jazz Choir
Performance Ensemble – Vocal Jazz (8th–12th grade, auditions required)
Fridays 3:30-5:00 pm (October–May)
Class Fee: $95/year (waived for Summer 2024 members)
Instructor: Mr. Tobin Eyestone
The Oaks Conservatory is in search of experienced singers up for a challenge. Even veteran vocalists will have another think coming grappling with the intricate harmonies that vocal jazz has in store. Members will master vocal techniques uniquely suited to jazz. Each will have an opportunity to improvise in the language of scatting.
This elite performing ensemble requires a full-year commitment and will be featured in Oaks performances throughout the year, sing the Star-Spangled Banner at family nights, and seek opportunities to perform at local churches.
Regis Cantores Men's Choir
A Choir for All Sons of The King (5th grade – 99 years)
Tuesdays 6:00-7:00 pm
Fall (October 1 – December 17) | Spring (January – May) | Summer (July – August)
Class Fee: FREE
Instructor: Mr. Tobin Eyestone
Regis Cantores is an ensemble for men and boys seeking to grow in faith, wisdom, and courage through song. (II Chronicles 20:21; Joshua 6:20) No singing experience is required! This class will take singers of all abilities to the next level and will prioritize singing with great joy and fervor. This men’s chorus will strike the balance between being Christ-loving, skill-building, and fellowship-focused.
This year Regis Cantores is going to continue to build it’s repertoire with new songs while keeping past songs performance ready.
Registration remains open all year, visitors are welcome, and newcomers will not be expected to perform until they are adequately prepared.
Handbell Class
Introduction to Handbells (Music readers, 4th grade & up)
Mondays 3:30-4:30 pm
Fall – 9 sessions (October 7 – December 9) | Spring – 9 sessions (February 3 – April 7)
Class Fee: $95
Instructor: Kathy Gentili
Join us for nine weeks of bell-ringing fun! If you have never had the delight of ringing a handbell now is your chance. Don the bell-ringer’s glove and give your wrists a workout. Handbell choirs are a beautiful illustration of the body of Christ: each player with their notes to ring, and without them, the music simply comes apart! Participants must have experience reading music and should be able to identify notes and rhythms on a treble and/or bass clef. Handbell Class students will have the opportunity to be selected for participation in The Oaks’ Handbell Choir.
Handbell Choir
Performance Ensemble – Handbells (7th grade – Adult; Pre-requisite: Handbell Class)
Mondays 6:00-7:00 pm (October–May)
Class Fee: $20/mo
Instructor: Kathy Gentili
Experienced bell-ringers are invited to join us for a year of fellowship and performance. Past students of the handbell class can choose to continue their study as members of the Handbell Choir as long as space is available. Members will hone their individual and ensemble skills at the bell table.
This elite performing ensemble requires a full-year commitment and will be featured in Oaks performances throughout the year, including The Oaks Theatre Department’s production of A Christmas Carol.
Primary Strings Orchestra
Primary Strings I (1st–3rd grade)
Thursday 3:30-4:30 pm (October–May)
Class Fee: $40/mo
Primary Strings II (4th–6th grade)
Thursday 3:30-5:00 pm (October–May)
Class Fee: $50/mo
Instructor: Mr. Samuel Jenkins
Developing your own sound with the string instrument you’ve chosen to play is exciting. combine that with a whole family of instruments, and you’re in for quite the adventure! Join Mr. Jenkins and the Primary Strings ensemble to discover the beauty, richness, and power of orchestral music for yourself.
Members of the ensemble will embark on a journey through music history as they learn to play together with a conductor. Primary Strings will be comprised of violin, viola, cello, and double bass players in 1st–6th grade, and will provide an excellent foundation for ensemble participation later in life. *Each student must be concurrently enrolled in private lessons.
Required Materials: Essential Elements for Strings (personal copy for the instrument of choice)
Percussion Ensemble
Fundamentals of Percussion Technique (5th-12th Grade)
Mondays 2:15-3:00 pm
Fall (Sept. 23–Oct. 29) | Winter (Nov. 4–Dec. 16) | Spring (March 3–April 7)
Class Fee (Six 45-minute group lessons): $70
Instructor: Sam Wollenhaupt
This class serves as a supplement to the instruction students receive in The Oaks Logic & Rhetoric Orchestras. Non-orchestral students are welcome to participate! Providing focused instruction to every family of instruments in an orchestral setting is impossible in three 55-minute class periods per week. It is for this reason that we highly encourage Oaks Orchestra students to concurrently invest in private lessons.
This percussion class gives students playing these instruments an incredible opportunity:
The individual cost for the same time spent in private lessons would be $297.
Calligraphy
Registration is closed. Tap below to join us next time!
Introduction to Calligraphy (5th grade–adult)
2024-2025 Class Schedule Coming Soon!
Class Fee: $100
Instructor: Mr. Spencer Ansett
Learn the introductory strokes of the fine art of calligraphy. This class will introduce Roundhand script and familiarize students with the tools of the trade. There will be a strong emphasis put on the correct technical foundations of the art, as well as examples of how to best develop and utilize this skill. Calligraphy is a timeless art form that can be enjoyed throughout life, in addition to being a marketable skill in high demand! Join Mr. Ansett and learn to delight in the discipline of hand lettering.
Students will receive their own high-quality paper, ink, calligraphy nib and nib holder for use in class and to keep afterward (a $20 value!) and for use in future classes.
Notation, Arranging & Composition
Registration is closed. Tap below to join us next time!
Introduction to MuseScore and Composition (7th grade–adults)
Class Schedule Coming Soon
Class Fee: $120
Instructor: Mr. Samuel Jenkins/Mr. Tobin Eyestone
This course for the musically precocious will seek to cram the content of three classes into one 12-hour intensive. This rewarding crash-course will introduce students to MuseScore, one of the finest FREE notation programs currently available. Once the technical foundations have been laid, students will try their hand at hymn arranging for voices and instruments. Arranging challenges complete, the class will culminate with the creation of an original composition.
In order to be successful, students should be prepared to do homework for this class. There is no way to develop the skills of a composer in 12 hours, but motivated students will have no trouble putting in the work outside of class. As the saying goes, you’ll get out of it what you put into it.
Materials Required: Each student needs to come to class with their own laptop equiped with the most recent edition of MuseScore, available for download here.