tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68449849303531865202012-02-10T11:27:45.229-08:00The blog of the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center in Tampa, FL, where every day students are reaching towards their dreams.tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.comBlogger2441100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-4462843910339351282012-02-10T09:23:00.000-08:002012-02-10T09:23:47.269-08:00

With the Grammy Awards coming up this weekend, have you ever wondered exactly how these artists are nominated and who votes for the award winners?Vocal instructor and chair of the music department at the Patel Conservatory Gregory Ruffer offers insight into how it all works.Ruffer actually gets to vote on the Grammys.How does it work?Ruffer is a member of the National Academy of Recording Arts

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-75229289785338054682012-02-08T16:18:00.000-08:002012-02-08T16:29:05.131-08:00

Hannah Bettes. Photo from the Prix de Lausanne. Congratulations to Next Generation Ballet new artist Hannah Bettes who recently placed second in the prestigious Prix de Lausanne international competition in Switzerland.Bettes also received the “Prix du Public” (audience favorite) award.The Prix de Lausanne is a pre-professional competition which draws top talent from around the world. Among

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-42787417968763861072012-02-06T06:40:00.000-08:002012-02-07T09:29:26.818-08:00

The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center announces a new summer intensive designed for exceptional singers who’d like to pursue a professional career.The new Classical Voice Intensive is a multi-faceted program for serious young singers ages 16 through 25. The program provides instruction, performances, master classes and workshops."The Straz Center is home to grand opera in our region," said

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-31539059111536453762012-02-03T10:16:00.000-08:002012-02-03T14:38:32.149-08:00

Our spring PCYT production of The Bear Went Over the Mountain is coming up in early March.Did you know that the show was co-written by John Jacobson, an internationally recognized composer, choreographer, teacher and motivational speaker?You may recognize Jacobson from the Ellen show performing his Double Dream Hands choreography.Jacobson has written and produced hundreds of songs, musicals and

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-62381759821080209902012-02-02T10:44:00.000-08:002012-02-03T10:00:16.747-08:00

Mark your calendars now for the new rock musical Caught! A Culinary Comedy Of Confusion in the Shimberg Playhouse April 5 - 7, 2012.Based on Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors, this spring performance by the students of the PCYT: Do It Yourself (DIY) class is a romantic comedy full of heartbreak, hope, haunting pasts, new beginnings and mistaken identity. The show is the result of a

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-61712118258678456522012-01-31T08:44:00.000-08:002012-02-06T10:21:28.553-08:00

Congratulations to Patel Conservatory alum Taylor Trensch who recently joined the cast of the Broadway production of Wicked!“I had never seen the show,” said Taylor’s father Frank Trensch, a physicist from Temple Terrace, who went to New York over the weekend to watch his son in his first Broadway role. “I was overwhelmed by his performance. After seeing him on that stage, I believe that’s where

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-32502616304476010722012-01-27T06:37:00.000-08:002012-01-27T06:37:27.228-08:00

Photo from wtsp.com, from the YAGP Stars of Today Meets Stars of Tomorrow performance. Congratulations to Patel Conservatory dancers who competed in the Tampa regional Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) last weekend! Their stellar performances earned Patel Conservatory the Outstanding School Award, alongside Orlando Ballet School. We’re proud of the effort and hard work from all the dancers, who

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-69599163718432599782012-01-26T20:06:00.000-08:002012-02-06T05:57:36.499-08:00

The Patel Conservatory Youth Orchestra (PCYO) will host a master class with violinist Leonid Yanovskiy on March 6, 2012. The class is free and open to the public, and all music students are invited to attend.Yanovskiy is the Director of Strings at the University of West Florida and conductor of its University Orchestra.“Any student in an orchestra or music program, including voice students, can

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-63551673710058903202012-01-26T19:53:00.000-08:002012-02-06T05:56:41.870-08:00

What will your kids be doing this summer?On Saturday, March 24, make your way over to the 5th annual Summer Splash at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts.Spend a relaxing day on the Riverwalk, and at the same time, find great places for your children to enjoy summer fun.Hosted by the Patel Conservatory and Tampa Bay Parenting magazine, Summer Splash will feature free activities for the kids

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-17446195134860847732012-01-23T07:25:00.000-08:002012-01-23T07:26:21.359-08:00

Photo by Jason Behnken/The Tampa Tribune Having four brothers in the Patel Conservatory Youth Orchestra (PCYO) program is unusual in itself. But the story of how these brothers became a family of musicians is even more striking.Born in Guatemala, Luis Quixtan, 19 of Brandon, thought early on that he’d become a doctor like his parents.“We lived in a small village, my parents were both doctors

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-3308901666736861052012-01-18T11:14:00.000-08:002012-01-18T11:30:28.668-08:00

Congratulations to Next Generation Ballet (NGB) trainee Katherine Grones!Grones recently won third place in the senior age division for the classical and contemporary categories at the Youth America Grand Prix regional competition in Chicago.Four of our NGB students traveled to Chicago to compete earlier this month. The competition in Chicago is one of many regional events leading up to the final

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-71584424355375382272012-01-17T11:51:00.000-08:002012-01-31T07:14:21.007-08:00

What’s the secret to success in the entertainment industry?Stay active and stay fresh, says Grace Feeney, actor and producer.“If I’m not actively in a show, then I take classes so that I’m constantly on my toes and ready for the next thing,” said Feeney.Feeney, a former on-camera student at the Patel Conservatory, is currently in the Professional Producer’s Program at UCLA. A perpetual student,

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-84347304116220896892012-01-13T07:39:00.000-08:002012-01-18T10:58:40.712-08:00

Although veteran actor Grace Feeney had studied theater extensively, she never took an on-camera acting class before coming to the Patel Conservatory in Tampa. Grace Feeney in our on-camera acting class. “It was interesting to learn the technicalities of being in front of the camera,” said Feeney. “I have a lot of little quirks I didn’t know I had.”The on-camera acting classes at the Patel

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-37424152201833572842012-01-10T09:12:00.000-08:002012-01-10T09:18:27.682-08:00

Shakespeare. A name that imparts images of kings and queens and star-crossed lovers and, for some, pages of words that are difficult to digest.But don't fret. Here’s your opportunity to learn more about Shakespeare’s plays and language in a fun, fast-paced workshop.Back by popular demand, the hilarious Improvised Shakespeare Company will conduct a workshop that will be open to the public. This is

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-12150925215510042942012-01-09T06:56:00.000-08:002012-01-09T06:57:10.582-08:00

We’re well into the new year, and how do your resolutions look?If you’ve vowed to take some time for yourself this year, now is the time!Classes start back this week at the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center in Tampa. Students of all ages enjoy community dance classes. The performing arts offer an emotional and creative outlet by engaging your mind and body in a way that's fun and

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-9138140146224672632012-01-09T05:59:00.000-08:002012-02-06T06:46:05.713-08:00

Auditions are underway for Next Generation Ballet’s 2012 Summer Intensive.The five-week NGB Summer Intensive program features more than 30 hours of world class instruction per week.Awarded “Outstanding School” at the 2011 New York finals of Youth America Grand Prix, NGB is a stepping stone for great talent.The Summer Intensive culminates with a performance at the Straz Center in Tampa, one of

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-138060239608936512012-01-06T06:36:00.000-08:002012-01-06T08:57:35.909-08:00

Students from our Patel Conservatory Youth Orchestra (PCYO) program will have the opportunity to learn from two innovative violinists.Kev Marcus and Will B are two classically trained violinists who perform their own style of music, a fusion of jazz, hip-hop, funk, and classical. Combining classical training with an urban beat, these two Florida natives and their DJ make up the group Black Violin

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-79161291827923421162012-01-05T08:57:00.000-08:002012-01-05T08:57:14.297-08:00

Tickets are now on sale for the Stars of Today Meet Stars of Tomorrow. The world’s largest student ballet competition, Youth America Grand Prix, brings its annual gala to the Straz Center in Tampa. The event has sold out year after year in New York City.The show features stars from top ballet companies performing alongside award-winning wunderkinds from around the nation, including some of our

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-73065197816831053172011-12-28T07:35:00.000-08:002012-02-06T10:23:16.097-08:00

In a digital world, where we rely so heavily on our gadgets, Stephen P. Brown’s goal is to share the experience of live music.As a conductor and composer, Brown wants to share his passion with both performers and audience members alike.“Classical music has lasted more than 400 years for a reason,” said Brown, “The whole process of making live music is very intimate...Experiencing it live is

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-80373946033959265442011-12-23T09:59:00.000-08:002012-01-03T05:46:49.992-08:00

On the heels of The Nutcracker, some of our Next Generation Ballet (NGB) dancers are arduously training for their next performance, one which could be the start of a ballet career.Nearly forty of our Patel Conservatory/NGB students will be competing in the upcoming Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) regionals in Tampa in January. The competition brings in judges from prestigious ballet schools from

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-781531708044700022011-12-16T07:19:00.000-08:002011-12-16T07:19:01.682-08:00

Marta Kelly has performed the same choreography for The Nutcracker for the past few years.This weekend, Kelly is looking forward to performing new original choreography for Next Generation Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the Straz Center in Tampa.“My favorite role in The Nutcracker is Dew Drop,” said Kelly. “It’s so beautiful and powerful.”One of Next Generation Ballet’s New Artists, Kelly will

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-82724671856962271282011-12-14T05:31:00.000-08:002011-12-14T05:59:33.736-08:00

Guest blog from Carol Cohen, adult dance student and cast member of The Nutcracker. Gabrielle Beach and Jackson Kettell rehearse the roles of the Arabian Leopard and her Trainer. During our rehearsals of The Nutcracker, the cast has learned so much from Artistic Director Peter Stark. Here’s some of the most important things our dancers, including myself, have taken away from the rehearsal

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-26440205624407160392011-12-13T13:47:00.000-08:002012-02-08T19:13:38.405-08:00

Looking to join our theater department in the new year?The Patel Conservatory in Tampa offers acting classes and musical theater classes for all ages and skill levels.Join us this Thurs., Dec. 15, 2011 for placement in our spring, 2012 acting and theater classes.Exceptional trainingSince our inaugural year in 2004, we have observed the current theatrical talent base in the Tampa community, sought

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-71074160700233311492011-12-13T06:55:00.000-08:002011-12-14T05:37:23.955-08:00

Apparently, Rock School Blowout is the place to be seen.This summer one of our bands was asked to audition for Battle of the Bands. Another band, User Friendly, was recently asked to audition for America’s Got Talent when a local producer saw them perform at our fall Rock School Blowout. “They were so good, they really stood out,” said Lori Fudens, mom of Sam Fudens, the guitarist and vocalist

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-26314340613983932932011-12-12T09:00:00.000-08:002011-12-12T13:06:52.926-08:00

This weekend, these little cuties share the stage with ballet superstars Jose Manuel Carreno and Jeffrey Cirio in Next Generation Ballet's production of The Nutcracker. This production at the Straz Center in Tampa features original choreography by Artistic Director Peter Stark and extraordinary sets and costumes that are sure to dazzle. These young caterpillars are students in the Patel

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-81055123789621993172011-12-09T08:27:00.000-08:002011-12-09T08:51:35.510-08:00

Musician Dean Tidey has toured Europe, Australia, Japan and the United States. Now he’s bringing his knowledge and experience to the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center in Tampa.Tidey has spent the last 12 years as guitarist for the acclaimed UK rock band Feeder. He’s also released albums with the bands Velvet Jones and Sandstone Veterans, and written, recorded and/or performed with many other

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-9444990533575293672011-12-09T08:11:00.000-08:002012-01-09T05:58:05.010-08:00

The world’s largest student ballet competition is coming to the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center in Tampa this January. The Patel Conservatory is honored to be hosting the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) regional competition as well as the YAGP Gala the weekend of Jan. 20 through Jan. 22, 2012“YAGP brings in judges from all over the world who are affiliated with famous ballet schools,” said

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-72594148552811398452011-12-09T06:22:00.000-08:002011-12-09T06:22:54.651-08:00

Theater guest blog by Braxton Perry, cast member for Our Town Ah… Christmas is in the air. Even as I write this, I’m listening to a techno remix of the Nutcracker’s ‘Sugar Plum Fairy’ theme. It looks like it’s going to be a good holiday season. Before writing this post, I looked over each of the past blogs I’ve written. It’s odd keeping a blog like this because you see yourself changing. Almost

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-87900968759797526652011-12-08T07:59:00.000-08:002011-12-08T07:59:15.357-08:00

Last week, the dancers of Next Generation Ballet got the opportunity to switch gears for an afternoon. Contrary to their normal poise and grace, they had a great time swinging their hips to the Cuban rhythms of the Kings of Salsa.Kings of Salsa performed at the Straz Center last Thursday evening. Dance company members Lia Rg and Geminiano Alejandro took time out of their afternoon prior to the

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-21795767216975163712011-12-07T09:46:00.000-08:002011-12-07T09:52:20.249-08:00

Looking for a unique gift for the arts lover in your family? The Straz Center offers gift cards!Straz Center gift cards can be used for classes at the Patel Conservatory, so your loved one can try something new in the new year! From music lessons to adult dance classes, there’s something for everyone at our world renowned performing arts center. Another great gift is our adult dance card. Great

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-83501183839551139812011-12-06T12:56:00.000-08:002011-12-06T12:56:02.800-08:00

So you’ve always wanted to learn how to play the guitar? The Patel Conservatory in Tampa has opened up a new guitar class.We now offer both Guitar I and Guitar II, so students can work on their guitar skills with others in the same age range and skill level.Whether you’re a kid, or just a kid at heart, we have the right class for you! Children and adults can learn how to play the guitar in a

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-8228045929468276142011-12-02T05:43:00.000-08:002011-12-02T05:45:04.736-08:00

As a well-traveled and experienced musician, violinist Nicole Benton has performed with an array of well-known artists, from the Florida Orchestra and Opera Tampa to Clay Aiken, Johnny Mathis and Mannheim Steamroller.But her greatest joy as a musician is to discover the unknown.“I love finding pieces that no one has discovered, and playing that for an audience,” said Benton, a violin instructor

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-70883862563231012662011-11-30T10:54:00.000-08:002011-12-05T06:43:52.254-08:00

Photo by Megan Lemasney. From actor to instructor, Patel Conservatory theater chair Ami Sallee wears several hats in the theater world.You can check out Sallee on stage this weekend and next weekend as Senator Willa Cross in Oliver Parker! Written by Elizabeth Meriwether, the play takes place around Christmas-time. It’s a dark comedy about four broken souls who gravitate toward one another in

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-937782322417859622011-11-29T06:56:00.000-08:002011-12-12T07:55:29.413-08:00

The countdown is on and the holiday rush is upon us.Checking things off your list? Don’t forget to include tickets to The Nutcracker, The Great Imperial Ballet, and make it a part of your holiday tradition! Jose Manuel Carreño This year’s production includes guest appearances from Cuban star Jose Manuel Carreño as the Cavalier, and Boston Ballet soloist Jeffrey Cirio as the Snow King.An

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-26566750340551186302011-11-28T11:02:00.000-08:002011-11-28T11:02:35.642-08:00

Kevin Rioles believes music is an important part of his children’s education.“I’m an engineer, so, for me, the mathematics of it makes sense,” said Kevin, a parent whose child will be performing in the Patel Conservatory Youth Orchestra (PCYO) concert this weekend. “Music is a large part of their education that they don’t get other places.”Kevin’s daughter Christine has been playing cello with

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-40903109562530547802011-11-24T07:07:00.000-08:002011-11-24T07:09:03.391-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all our students, parents and friends!Warm wishes go out to Ashlyn Bolton, who is performing this morning with Camp Broadway in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.She’ll be dancing with the Zhu Zhu Pet float (Zhu-Niverse)! Ashlyn was one of approximately 110 kids chosen to perform out of about 1000 who auditioned, said Kim Bolton, Ashlyn’s mother.As part of

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-64849462013244484722011-11-22T07:31:00.000-08:002011-11-22T09:57:34.275-08:00

The Patel Conservatory in Tampa announces an exceptional training opportunity for serious ballet students.The Conservatory will offer an advanced ballet master class with dance legend Bruce Marks. Well known dancer and director, Marks was a principal dancer with the Metropolitan Opera and American Ballet Theatre (ABT). He served as artistic director of Ballet West and Boston Ballet, and was a

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-43354604925137818392011-11-18T06:07:00.000-08:002012-02-06T10:21:49.092-08:00

As Mark Lubas puts it, he “geeks out” over the exciting process of helping a student become a better singer.“Students come to me because they love to sing and they want to get better at it, but there’s usually something standing in their way,” said Lubas, a voice instructor at the Patel Conservatory. “Whether it’s lack of experience, technique or confidence...I go on their journey with them to

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-84211621177005696862011-11-17T11:26:00.000-08:002011-11-17T11:26:42.853-08:00

Theater guest blog by Braxton Perry, cast member for Our Town Whoosh… and almost another month has passed on by. They say all good things must come to an end… but I think it’s just mainly everything has to come to an end.But we’re not yet at this story’s end. Today is the opening day of Patel Conservatory Youth Theater’s production of the play, Our Town.Over the last few weeks, we’ve been doing

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-7385255700900548062011-11-15T11:59:00.000-08:002011-11-16T09:05:29.541-08:00

You’ve read the guest blogs, and watched the guest vlogs on Facebook, now it’s finally here!This weekend only, don’t miss the Patel Conservatory Youth Theater’s production of Our Town! This Pulitzer Prize-winning work by Thornton Wilder gets at the heart of what makes us human: the eternal search for love, purpose and fulfillment.Cast members Lizzie Kehoe, Ian Burns and Braxton Perry have been

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-21750304942218274002011-11-15T06:58:00.000-08:002011-11-15T06:58:30.378-08:00

Help the Patel Conservatory Booster Club reach for the stars! The Booster Club has put together a holiday drawing that will support our classes and programs. Enter to win a holiday tree filled with gift cards for you to keep or give away as Christmas gifts.* That's right, if you are the lucky winner, you'll get the whole tree worth more than $1,100 in prizes! Prizes include a 2 night vacation,

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-36547800442041121862011-11-14T10:12:00.000-08:002011-11-14T10:14:17.179-08:00

What does tennis have to do with playing the cello? Ask Scott Crowley, cello instructor at the Patel Conservatory.In his teaching and playing, Crowley draws inspiration from the book The Inner Game of Tennis by Tim Gallwey.“I’m always on a quest to explore cello technique and how to let go,” said Crowley, who has a masters in music performance from the University of South Florida.Gallwey’s book

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-18620099771016497812011-11-08T08:50:00.000-08:002011-11-08T08:54:31.887-08:00

Many of our Patel Conservatory students participated in the flash mob at last month’s Broadway Ball at the Straz Center. Dressed as characters from The Addams Family, students mingled with guests until it was time to break into random dancing to the Addams Family theme song.Here’s a couple more pictures from the event... Tap III students (left to right) Mary Jo Heiger, Pat Adams andValerie

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-63978290693591494242011-11-07T08:15:00.000-08:002012-01-26T19:55:52.044-08:00

Rock School student Lars Tatum has gone from virtual rock star to concert guitarist and vocalist.Tatum and his Rock School band Interlude recently got the chance to compete at the Hillsborough County Battle of the Bands at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover.It all started nearly three years ago with Guitar Hero. When Tatum got a taste of playing in a band through the video game, he was

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-8061180339303538432011-11-03T09:17:00.000-07:002011-12-12T12:59:21.582-08:00

Looking for music lessons in Tampa? The Patel Conservatory Youth Orchestra (PCYO) will hold placement auditions for its spring 2012 season.Our youth orchestra features the Tampa Bay Youth Orchestra, Intermezzo Orchestra, Prelude Strings and an extensive Chamber Music program. “We’re convinced that having music as part of [our kids'] every day life helps them in other areas in terms of

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-18119342875742340912011-11-01T10:46:00.000-07:002011-12-13T06:43:30.034-08:00

Imagine your name announced over the mic as you run on stage in front of a crowd of screaming fans! This can happen for you in the near future... all you have to do is sign up for Rock School and in just a few months you’ll be performing live in concert with your new band!If you've ever thought about playing drums, guitar, bass guitar or keyboards in a rock band, you're invited to our upcoming

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-58879611454781120842011-11-01T07:59:00.000-07:002011-11-01T07:59:53.597-07:00

Please join us Thurs., Nov. 10 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for the first meeting of the 2011/12 Patel Conservatory Booster Club.The meeting is an informal way to get to know other parents/volunteers, and is open to anyone interested in helping us promote our classes and programs.We’ll discuss preliminary ideas for the annual fundraiser of the Patel Conservatory (the Spotlight Awards) set for May, 2012.

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-24365065611018599202011-11-01T06:06:00.000-07:002012-02-06T10:22:11.465-08:00

Today’s spotlight is on Patel Conservatory voice instructor Stella Zambalis.Zambalis, a professional opera singer with more than 30 years of experience, recently performed in A Celebration of Carlisle Floyd at Florida State University.As an alumni of FSU and having worked with Floyd from time to time throughout her career, Zambalis was invited to perform at the concert held last month in honor

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-64669041037512645872011-10-31T06:41:00.000-07:002011-10-31T06:42:51.700-07:00

Guest blog by Braxton Perry, cast member for PCYT's production of Our Town Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2011Ah, that’s better. I’m finally getting back to a schedule. Hmm… this past week… It’s been “right nice”, to quote Simon Stimson from Our Town. Starting last week, we’re now off book for both Acts 1 and 2.We’ve been breaking down the different scenes in detail and changing bits and pieces. I would say

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-61566439210809136582011-10-27T08:35:00.000-07:002011-12-07T09:43:39.588-08:00

From thespian to pre-professional ballet dancer, Kamron Vaziri has made the leap in a relatively short amount of time.At 18 years old, Vaziri has only been dancing for three years, and began concentrating on ballet two years ago. Yet, he was chosen as one of only six New Artists of Next Generation Ballet, the pre-professional ballet company at the Straz Center.In a world where many kids start

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-18593441841318084762011-10-26T10:23:00.000-07:002011-10-31T06:27:24.595-07:00

Guest blog by Braxton Perry, cast member for PCYT's production of Our Town  Thursday, Oct. 20, 2011Woah! It's almost been a month since my last blog! Things have been super busy for me. I'm not only doing this blog, I'm also doing a vlog (a video blog) which gets posted on the Patel Conservatory Facebook page (hopefully the next one will be out this week).One cool thing I had the chance to do

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-40749078804625070902011-10-25T06:58:00.000-07:002011-10-25T07:02:13.918-07:00

Congratulations to Patel Conservatory student Corey Farrell on winning the Critic’s Choice Award at the recent Florida Thespians Competition of Hillsborough County Public Schools District 9.“I was surprised, especially since this was my first year. I was freaking out,” said Farrell, 15, of Riverview High School.Farrell has enjoyed performing in musical theater since he was ten and this past

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-33437006109725490012011-10-21T08:26:00.000-07:002011-10-24T11:17:45.874-07:00

The costume shop is busy at work getting ready for The Nutcracker.With more than 150 dancers in three casts of three shows, wardrobe manager Suzanne Nelson has her job cut out for her. Some roles are triple cast to include our growing number of PCYB dancers.While the Next Generation Ballet production will utilize the beautiful costumes from last year, many of them have to be altered to fit this

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-68494352224334552302011-10-13T14:48:00.000-07:002011-10-13T14:48:16.250-07:00

Looking for something different to do this weekend? Here’s a fun and easy way to support our programs here at the Patel Conservatory...Come join us this Saturday at the Broadway Ball Late Night event. It’s a new element to the Straz Center’s annual fundraiser.For only $55 per person (or $100 per couple), you’ll enjoy live music, dancing, hor d’oeuvres, dessert and an open bar! It’s an affordable

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-62214117661322541862011-10-13T06:48:00.000-07:002011-10-13T06:48:44.141-07:00

By Leslie Farrell, Publicist for the Patel ConservatoryBoth the dance chair at the Patel Conservatory and a Patel Conservatory dance student are in the national news this month! Thalia, on left, performs in a holiday show with tappers from the Patel Conservatory. Thalia Arbelaez, Patel Conservatory dance student, is in the Oct. 17, 2011 issue of Woman’s World, available on newsstands at grocery

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-11177395384294797562011-10-12T11:30:00.000-07:002011-10-12T11:37:57.380-07:00

One of the hardest parts of growing up is finding your niche. Sometimes it’s a tough road, but when you find that special something, the road opens up to unimagined possibilities. Next Generation Ballet’s new artist William Dugan knows that road well.“He had a horrific public school experience,” explained Lori Dugan, William's mother. Bullied at public school when he was younger, Dugan tried a

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-32288663493340550612011-10-12T11:08:00.000-07:002011-10-12T11:09:00.635-07:00

For anyone who loves Rock School or musical theater, now is your chance to take it to the next level!In anticipation of PCYT’s Do It Yourself (DIY) spring musical, Patel Conservatory students are invited to enroll in a special songwriting workshop, taught by Rock School guru Paul Stoddart. The workshop starts this Thursday, Oct. 13.Stoddart, a Patel Conservatory Rock School instructor, is a

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-11552475737941415042011-10-11T18:53:00.000-07:002011-10-11T18:53:57.223-07:00

Guest blog by Ian Burns, Theater Apprentice for the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center.In addition to my theater apprentice tasks, I have been helping Susan Downey with some choreography over the past couple of weeks.  When Susan asked me to help her by letting her bounce ideas off me and stand-in as the male in a duet she was choreographing, I was shocked.  Susan knows me well and that I’m

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-85427363898163447132011-10-07T11:37:00.000-07:002011-10-09T19:34:13.837-07:00

Guest blog by Colleen Crowder, Theater Apprentice for the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center. I have successfully made it a FULL week into the program! I can say that for the most part I kind of got the swing of things. I am familiar with who everyone is and where everything is for the most part. Today, while I was with production, I got to set up my first classroom. I had to help load in

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-78921431936378491762011-10-06T09:55:00.000-07:002011-10-06T09:55:38.767-07:00

Attention high school singers, do you dream of a career as a professional classical singer?The Patel Conservatory announces a new program designed specifically for exceptional singers in grades 9 through 12 who’d like to pursue a singing career.The Classical Voice Intensive for High School Students (CVI) is a multi-faceted program for serious young singers. The program provides instruction and

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-42042280729398985642011-10-04T11:20:00.000-07:002011-10-21T08:20:17.349-07:00

When Alex Correa needed a new pair of ballet shoes last spring, he inherited a hand-me-down pair from another dancer at the Patel Conservatory, William Dugan. Correa, left, with last year's Fritz, William Dugan The shoes had the name Fritz written in them, the role Dugan played in last year’s The Nutcracker.“William is a really good role model for him,” said Tammy Correa, Alex’s mom. “Alex

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-39955474424081552252011-10-03T08:08:00.000-07:002011-10-03T08:39:44.399-07:00

by Beth Miller, Community Ambassador for the Patel Conservatory This morning I was pleased to find a message waiting for me on Facebook from a cinematographer asking if I’d like to help with a short film.Recently, I’ve been trying to immerse myself in the local film industry, and I’m pleased to report that such a beast does exist around these parts, and, yes, even in Tampa.Let me backtrack a bit.

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-22420901280640798902011-10-03T06:31:00.000-07:002011-10-03T06:31:14.496-07:00

Guest blog by Colleen Crowder, Theater Apprentice for the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center.Since day one of my experience here, I have felt a mixture of emotions. I’ve felt overwhelmed, excited, blessed and challenged. Being here thus far has been amazing. The staff is BEYOND helpful and very nice. Everyone is great at what they do. I haven’t gotten the opportunity nor have I been exposed

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-50248355899651027662011-10-02T16:23:00.000-07:002011-10-02T16:26:20.844-07:00

Guest blog by Braxton Perry, cast member for PCYT's production of Our Town Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2011In our third week of Our Town classes and rehearsals, we went through something called blocking.If you haven’t been in a play before, blocking is when the director gives out the directions of the play. Have you ever wondered how actors know where to walk, what door to open or where the door even

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-20782120941846054632011-09-28T07:58:00.000-07:002011-09-28T07:59:45.363-07:00

Guest blog by Lauren Blakeney, New Artist with Next Generation Ballet at the Patel Conservatory. These past few weeks since Labor Day weekend have been quite busy, so this is the first chance I’ve had to write a blog entry!Everything at Patel [Conservatory] is going great; I seem to be learning something new every day. We’ve already started and finished Waltz of the Flowers, in which I’m so

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-53295443799382053452011-09-27T20:01:00.000-07:002011-10-10T06:20:39.813-07:00

Whether getting ready for a karate competition or a theater production, 11-year-old Tyler Luginski knows the importance of solid training.“I’ve been in karate for 5 or 6 years. I love the sport. I’ve competed nationally and won,” said Luginski, who took time out from a workout to chat with me.“I have to train cardio because when you’re sparring you have to have a lot energy,”  said Luginski. To

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-69637231904599730532011-09-27T09:34:00.000-07:002011-10-03T06:22:15.215-07:00

Guest blog by Ian Burns, Theater Apprentice for the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center. I have been involved with the Patel Conservatory since 2008. I do enjoy dance and singing, but my true joy is acting. I am very excited to do Our Town, because it is a classic American play, and not a musical. Don’t get me wrong, I love musicals, but it’s nice to just act and work specifically on that,

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-57649048286650113382011-09-25T05:38:00.000-07:002012-01-09T05:53:54.033-08:00

Here are the 2011-2012 New Artists of Next Generation Ballet, the resident pre-professional ballet company at the Straz Center in Tampa. Back row (from left to right): Calvin Farias, Kamron Vaziri and William Dugan Front row (from left to right): Marta Kelly, Lauren Blakeney and Hannah Bettes

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-16065823538619425712011-09-23T08:37:00.000-07:002011-09-28T07:52:02.983-07:00

Guest blog by Braxton Perry, cast member for PCYT's production of Our TownHey, this is Braxton here. Glad to see you back (Well, of course, I can’t actually see you, but I’ll just have to pretend I can). This blog is about my second week going through the Our Town classes and rehearsals.Last week we did a couple of new and fun things. We did a bunch of theater exercises – like leading people

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-5269582724540086892011-09-22T17:29:00.000-07:002011-09-25T05:42:02.611-07:00

Today’s spotlight is on Calvin Farias, one of this year's New Artists with Next Generation Ballet, the resident pre-professional ballet company of the Straz Center.Farias joins us this year from Ellenton, Florida, where he began dancing at the age of eight at the Diane Partington Studio of Classical Ballet. Over the years, as his skill increased, so did his time in the studio.At the age of twelve

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-35614165606572022862011-09-16T11:24:00.000-07:002011-09-16T14:25:11.227-07:00

Theater guest blog by Braxton Perry, cast member for Our TownHey, my name is Braxton and I’m 17 years old. I love all things that have to do with the performing arts (music, theater and dance thanks to the Patel Conservatory), but this blog isn’t about all of those disciplines (that would take too much space). Each week, I’ll write about my previous week’s adventures during rehearsals for Patel

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-8326394004717583302011-09-15T08:33:00.000-07:002011-09-15T08:53:55.482-07:00

Try Before You BuyDid you know that you can always try a class for free (for most classes) before you sign up?Check out the adult acting class on Wednesday nights, or Stretch and Strengthen on your Monday lunch hour. If you’re looking for music, dance or acting classes for your child, please feel free to Try Before You Buy at the Patel Conservatory in Tampa!We understand that classes are an

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-10751921857736606322011-09-13T06:51:00.000-07:002011-09-13T06:51:43.972-07:00

Bravo to the Next Generation Ballet dancers who performed at two different galas over the weekend!Hannah Bettes performed at the Young Stars of Ballet Gala in Indianapolis, and Kemper Cassada, Hannah Stanford and William Dugan performed at the International Ballet Festival of Miami.“I’ve never done a gala before. It was a really good experience,” said Cassada, 13, of Jacksonville.“You meet new

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-89199585184996680342011-09-09T11:13:00.000-07:002011-09-09T13:41:35.853-07:00

Congratulations to Patel Conservatory student Elizabeth Harvath who recently booked two professional theater jobs! Elizabeth Harvath in PCYT's Alice in Wonderland, Jr. Harvath was recently cast in Ruthless at the Winter Park Playhouse in Orlando, and as Clara in A Nutty Nutcracker at the Orlando Repertory Theatre. Since winning the 2010 Tampa’s Got Talent competition, the past year has been an

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-44660419579119970832011-09-09T08:48:00.000-07:002011-09-09T08:53:21.401-07:00

Ever since she was little, Diane Andrieux has loved to sing and write music.“I started singing in church when I was nine years old,” said Andrieux, one of the winners of Patel Conservatory's recent Tampa’s Got Talent competition.Andrieux, 26, originally from Miami, has been involved with choirs ever since. She graduated with a degree in music education from the University of South Florida, where

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-36051513849027255872011-09-07T10:20:00.000-07:002011-09-07T19:32:44.276-07:00

Several Patel Conservatory veterans performed recently at a benefit concert for the Arts Council of Plant City.“It was a fun, enlightening experience with such amazing talent,” said Ryan Caudill, former Patel Conservatory administrative assistant. The concert, at the Red Rose Inn in Plant City, was part of the council’s annual banquet. The show was directed and produced by Cheryl Worsham, who

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-46241824350503930492011-09-07T06:37:00.000-07:002011-09-07T06:45:17.823-07:00

Registration is still open until Sept. 9, 2011, for the Patel Conservatory Youth Theater (PCYT) production of Our Town. This production-driven theater class brings students from the classroom, through the rehearsal process, and to the stage. Intended for students in grades nine through college, Our Town will be directed by guest instructor Kerry Glamsch.Glamsch has a BA in theater from USF and

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-34254428278703761452011-09-07T06:24:00.000-07:002011-09-14T10:47:30.779-07:00

Kerry Glamsch By Kerry Glamsch, guest director of PCYT's production of Our Town, playing Nov. 17 - 19, 2011 at the Patel Conservatory in Tampa.   “Do any human beings ever realize life while they live it--every, every minute?”In the early 1980s, I saw a production of Our Town at The Tampa Players, one of two now-defunct Equity theaters in Tampa. Too punk rock and self-absorbed to appreciate

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-31894231386299879472011-09-06T07:04:00.000-07:002011-09-25T08:23:47.899-07:00

Back by popular demand, our NGB Guest Blog continues as we follow Lauren Blakeney, New Artist with Next Generation Ballet, through a year of training at the Patel Conservatory in Tampa. By Lauren Blakeney, NGB New Artist I was born and raised in Houston, Texas where I started out doing gymnastics and taking a few dance classes because there was a dance studio right upstairs. Around the age of 10,

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-34403785522761508562011-09-02T09:07:00.000-07:002012-01-13T07:38:38.080-08:00

Living in New Orleans in her teens, Eugenie Bondurant had aspirations of modeling. Despite her long, sleek build, she was turned down by a Ford talent scout, and let go from another modeling gig because, “I was told I was not modeling material, and I believed it,” said Bondurant. Bondurant's subsequent long and interesting career in the entertainment industry is a lesson learned in not believing

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-8997191236250974002011-08-30T06:49:00.000-07:002011-10-02T16:18:51.986-07:00

In November, our Patel Conservatory Youth Theater (PCYT) students in grades nine through college will perform Our Town, directed by guest instructor Kerry Glamsch.Glamsch has a BA in theater from USF and earned an MFA as a Michener fellow at the University of Texas, Austin. He worked as an Equity actor for years and has taught at the Patel Conservatory from its inception until 2007.He taught

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-66171329264600819402011-08-29T15:52:00.000-07:002011-09-06T07:12:12.816-07:00

The Patel Conservatory is proud to welcome new assistant principal for the Patel Conservatory Youth Ballet, Laurie Jones.Jones fell in love with classical ballet as a child.“I started dancing when I was seven,” said Jones. “I just loved it. It sounds corny, but it was just so beautiful...What can I say? I got the bug.”As a youth, she trained at the prestigious Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-65663955264876036762011-08-29T10:00:00.000-07:002011-08-31T06:53:28.786-07:00

Photo: Creative Loafing Congratulations to three of our Patel Conservatory students who were named in this week's Creative Loafing among Tampa Bay's promising young artists. The article focused on 20 of the area's promising young artists under the age of 25, and among them were Next Generation Ballet dancers Hannah Bettes and Hannah Beach, and Patel Conservatory piano student and recent

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-10445649275971972212011-08-25T08:32:00.000-07:002011-12-14T05:30:48.901-08:00

Looking for ways to boost your energy level and decrease tension?Try one of our community dance classes! Increase your fitness level and feel the day to day toils melt away in any one of our adult classes, from hip hop to flamenco.If you simply can’t choose which class to take, or you want the flexibility of various days and times, you can try them all with our new convenient Dance Card option!

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-76918570677267594832011-08-24T10:18:00.000-07:002011-08-29T15:55:32.254-07:00

The Patel Conservatory welcomes piano instructor Joshua Sawicki to our faculty.  Patel Conservatory instructor Joshua Sawicki (left), with the USF President's Trio. Sawicki recently returned from the Chautauqua Musical Festival in New York.“It was seven weeks of intense classes and performances,” said Sawicki. “I’ve attended three summers. I go back each year because they’ve been really

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-42595312943077280682011-08-22T07:52:00.000-07:002011-08-22T08:11:17.357-07:00

Happy Back to School week!We had a great time at the Back to School Fair last week at the Glazer Children’s Museum. Susan Downey’s adult tappers performed and Downey gave a mini tap class for the kids. The kids and parents loved it! Now that the last minute school shopping is done, and fall schedules are in place, if you haven't registered yet, it’s time to get you and your kids signed up for

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-7313825681853023912011-08-18T12:48:00.000-07:002011-09-25T07:26:07.102-07:00

Don’t you just love that feeling when you come out of a play or movie, or any live theater event, thinking, That was sooo good! ...And so much better than I expected!It’s the feeling many parents get when they attend one of our Patel Conservatory productions for the first time. Whether it’s music, theater or dance, they walk in thinking, recital, and come out feeling dazzled, entertained and just

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For years, John Pfingsten and his sister Abigale have studied classical piano. Siblings John and Abigale Pfingsten performed for the residents at Brighton Gardens in April. They’ve competed strongly with both the National Federation of Music Clubs, and for the National Piano Guild auditions, performing traditional classical pieces.But John Pfingsten departed from his usual classical repertoire

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-88995098641870326932011-08-04T10:38:00.000-07:002011-08-06T05:57:53.472-07:00

The Patel Conservatory in Tampa will hold auditions this month for their music programs. Enhance your private music lessons with ensemble and performance experience through one of our many music classes, including jazz ensemble, orchestra and Rock School.This fall, we’ve added additional jazz ensembles. Learn about the rich traditions of jazz through theory and practice, and, gain improvisation

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-33305900580668208592011-08-04T07:57:00.000-07:002011-09-09T11:17:54.048-07:00

The Patel Conservatory is pleased to announce the winners of this year's Tampa’s Got Talent.More than 130 contestants showed up last month for the annual competition. They danced, sang, played musical instruments and acted for the chance to win a scholarship. In addition to talent, judges looked for passion and willingness to learn to determine the winners.Congratulations to the following people

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by Amber Shriver, NGB dancer and Patel Conservatory marketing intern.Friday, July 29, 2011 Life is a series of choicesSitting at the hotel computer (since a coffee accident ruined my laptop), I find it shocking that the five weeks of the Next Generation Ballet summer intensive are over and this is my final entry. In a way, the ending seems almost anti-climatic, surreal, really, as if it’s not

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Guest blog from Patel Conservatory Summer Theater productionby Aliya Burshan, cast member of PCYT's Seussical the Musical, Jr. After three weeks of hard work and determination, it all paid off when we put on two amazing shows on Thursday, July 21st and Friday July 22nd. For my friends and I, it was an amazing experience to learn about dance, music, and theater. At the end of each performance, it

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By Amber Shriver, NGB summer intensive dancer and Patel Conservatory marketing intern. Advice I Wish I Had Been ToldWhen I first found out that as part of my marketing internship I would be writing a guest blog, I remember calling my little sister and asking her, “Who is going to want to read about what I have to say?  My life is so boring.”Now, 5 weeks and nearly 250 readers later, I am more

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-56451587191414118842011-07-27T09:18:00.000-07:002011-07-27T09:40:13.607-07:00

Lia Cirio, of the Boston Ballet, was a guest instructor for NGB's summer intensive and will perform this Friday in Ferguson Hall in NGB's Summer Fantasy. The Patel Conservatory in Tampa is thrilled to welcome guest artists Lia and Jeffrey Cirio of the Boston Ballet, and Dylan G-Bowley of the contemporary Trey McIntyre Project, this Friday in Next Generation Ballet’s Summer Fantasy. We invite

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-22669723921992347152011-07-22T10:52:00.000-07:002011-07-22T12:02:05.026-07:00

Before she could even speak, she could sing.When Christina Solazzo was a baby, her speech articulation was slightly delayed, said mom Adele Solazzo. “But when she sang, you couldn’t tell, she was able to mimic the sounds she heard.”Christina learned to read at a young age because she was anxious to sing the songs in the hymnal at church. Christina Solazzo as Chava in her high school production

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-22198618458118965572011-07-20T12:47:00.000-07:002011-07-22T08:04:52.327-07:00

Placement auditions for the fall Rock School session at the Patel Conservatory in Tampa will be in August.If you've ever thought about playing drums, guitar, bass guitar or keyboards in a rock band, you're invited to our upcoming auditions. The auditions help instructors place students in a band according to their playing level. All levels are welcome, from beginners to advanced!At the end of the

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Rock and Roll Camp, June, 2011 Our summer is heating up with week after week of creativity, shows and performances, and kids having a great time! At the Patel Conservatory in Tampa, we still have openings in many of our summer camps, including our on-camera Reality TV camp, Vocal Arts Academy and the popular Rock and Roll camp! Hunter Loiselle signed up for Rock and Roll Camp expecting to play

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-59410189567881197232011-07-20T08:16:00.000-07:002011-07-20T08:16:42.738-07:00

Guest blog from Patel Conservatory Summer Theater productionby Aliya Burshan, cast member of PCYT's Seussical the Musical, Jr.Yesterday in Seussical Jr. rehearsals, we ran through the whole entire musical twice. The day started out very hectic with all of the technicians there. We were finally putting all the final pieces together. We do run-throughs for several days so that everyone gets

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-64491019691529092722011-07-20T05:40:00.000-07:002011-07-20T06:31:01.260-07:00

I really can’t believe that there are only two weeks left in the summer program.  At the beginning, five weeks sounded like a lifetime, but now two weeks sounds like it will go by so fast. So for this week’s blog, instead of writing about my life, I’ve asked advice from Next Generation Ballet’s artistic director, Peter Stark and Patel Conservatory Youth Ballet’s principal Melissa Stafford about

tishmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201826244384917123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844984930353186520.post-85224367931901317862011-07-18T09:00:00.000-07:002011-07-22T08:30:14.966-07:00

Guest blog from Patel Conservatory Summer Theater productionby Aliya Burshan, cast member of PCYT's Seussical the Musical, Jr. Students work on choreography. Last week in Seussical, Jr. rehearsals, we began putting together the second act. It took a very long time connecting the pieces, because there were a lot of things to remember.Every day we did a full run-through to a certain stopping

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