One of the unique aspects to the student experience at Charter Arts is the diverse master class program that is offered throughout the year. Visiting artists include professional artists and scholars who provide specialized instruction to students. Visiting artists include some of Charter Arts’ esteemed alumni.
Anee Reiser, Flautist
The Charter Arts Music Department welcomed alum, Anee Reiser ’22 for a special master class with students. Anee is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree at Temple University, where she studies flute in the studio of Mimi Stillman.
During the session, Anee performed a selection of repertoire drawn from past performances. She shared insights into the transition from Charter Arts to a collegiate music program. Anee also discussed her experiences performing with orchestras and chamber ensembles throughout the region and emphasized the importance of preparing for the uncertainties of a professional orchestral music career.
Ailey II
The Charter Arts Dance Department recently welcomed company members from Ailey II for a modern class focused on the Lester Horton technique. During their visit, company members also shared inspiring insights about pursuing advanced studies in dance and developing a professional career in the field.
As a company, Ailey II is known worldwide for advancing Alvin Ailey’s vision– providing early-career dancers with invaluable pathways from training as a student to becoming a professional dancer. Their visit offered our students renewed motivation to continue developing their craft both in and beyond the classroom.
Third Coast Percussion
Music students enjoyed a special visit and performance by Third Coast Percussion. a renowned percussion ensemble based in Chicago, Illinois, known for their expertise in contemporary classic music.
In addition to performing, ensemble members shared valuable insights and techniques.
Opportunities like this are made possible through our Master Class Program, which brings visiting artists and scholars to campus to provide students with instruction and professional guidance- enhancing their educational experience.
Daniel Padierna, Adelphi University
The Charter Arts Dance Department welcomed Daniel Padierna, Assistant Professor of Dance at Adelphi University for a Recruitment/Master Class.
Students were inspired by Padierna who brings a wealth of experience as an artist, choreographer and educator to the dance studio- his pedagogy centers on cultivating inclusive spaces for students to explore their identities and artistic voices with confidence and authenticity.
Kory Burrell
Kory Burrell, a Charter Arts alum and NYC based music producer, songwriter, composer, and mixing engineer visited with Production Arts students in our Audio and Video track to do a masterclass in audio engineering and music production.
Kory has worked on a variety of projects that range from commercial music composition, audio engineering and mixing for artists, and touring around the country. Kory met with our students to teach them about both the conceptual and technical process involved in producing and recording music.
Clarice Assad
Mr. Maher and his students have been working with Allentown Symphony Composer-in -Residence and Grammy Award nominated composer, Clarice Assad.
Assad, who has worked with Charter Arts students in the past, is an active and dedicated member of the symphony’s education and outreach initiatives.
Susan Creitz
The Charter Arts Dance Department had the honor of welcoming renowned dance artist, Susan Creitz, for an inspiring and dynamic Improvisation Master Class. Students were treated to an unforgettable experience as Creitz guided them through innovative movement explorations, unlocking new creative potential and pushing the boundaries of expression.
Susan Creitz studied and/or performed with major and new modern dance companies in NYC such as Alwin Nikolais, Murray Louis, Phyllis Lamhut, Kathleen Hinni, Norman Ader, and Diane Boardman
Hector Rodriguez, Jr.
Music students had the opportunity to work with pianist, Hector Rodriguez, for two master class sessions. As a professional musician who plays with numerous Latin bands in the Lehigh Valley and Philadelphia regions, he provided students of the Latin Jazz Ensemble with valuable instruction and performance feedback. Mr. Wells shares: “Students of the Latin Jazz Ensemble worked with Hector Rodriguez on the many Latin styles of music.” In addition to instruction, Rodriguez provided valuable performance feedback for students .
Aleesa Tucker-Parkes
The Charter Arts Dance Department welcomed Aleesa Tucker-Parks, Instructor of Dance at DeSales University for a hip hop master class. We are grateful to DeSales University for providing this collaborative opportunity for our students.
After attending the Mercer County Performing Arts High School in New Jersey, Aleesa continued her training at Stockton University, where she concentrated in choreographic studies and developed a passion for dance education. Aleesa has presented choreographic work at the American College Dance Association, Stockton Unversity and Temple University.
Hannah Bonnett
The Charter Arts Theatre Department welcomed alum, Hannah Bonnett (Class of 2017) for a Musical Theater Master Class. Hannah is a seasoned performer with lead credits that include playing Elle Woods in the National Tour of “Legally Blonde” and Ivanka Trump in the Off-Broadway production of “Five: The Parody Musical”. Hannah’s visit was part of the department’s Alumni Artist in Residence Program. She provided students with valuable performance feedback as well as industry advice.
Thank you to all of the amazing professionals who have given back to our students over the past 20 years! VIEW A REPRESENTATIVE LIST OF VISITING ARTISTS
