CAMPS THAT ROCK! SIGN UP TODAY! bluebearmusic.org/summercamp2016
BLUE BEAR SUMMER QUARTER 2016 All Ages Private Lessons
Short Seminars 8
One-on-one instruction for kids and adults.
Teens, Kids & Toddlers
Adults Band Workshops
10
Join a 10-week student band workshop and perform at a nightclub in April!
Group Classes
14
Guitar, vocals, ukulele, and more for beginning, intermediate, and advanced players.
Songwriting/Recording
Summer Camps
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28
After-school bands, voice, and instrument petting zoo!
All-Star Bands
32
Weeklong music day camps in San Francisco.
Group Classes
For those who prefer working on original music, songwriting, recording, and more. About Us Why Blue Bear? From the Directors Summer Quarter Calendar Policies & Procedures Community Programs
27
A special week of one-night classes in between each quarter. Attend one free with your paid Member Fee!
36
Weekend band workshops for those serious about developing ensemble playing skills.
Little Bears
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Rockin’ music classes for infants and toddlers and their parent/caregiver. 2 4 6 7 9 44
Support 48 Gifts, Grants & Scholarships 50 Board of Trustees & Staff 55 Teacher Bios 56 General Info & Locations 62 Goings On 64 bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 1
About Us Adults Group Classes Blue Bear offers small group classes in guitar, voice, bass, ukulele, and music theory, run on an 11-week quarter system. They’re an affordable way to either start your adventures in music or enhance your skills and keep growing as a musician. See pages 14-27.
Band Workshops Band Workshops are the heart and soul of Blue Bear! Student bands rehearse for 10 weeks under the guidance of a professional musician and instructor and then perform a 40-minute set in a local San Francisco club. See pages 10-13.
Songwriting/Recording For those who prefer working on original music or recording, Blue Bear’s Creating Music Program offers songwriting classes and individualized instruction that use our in-house recording facility, Studio Z. See page 28.
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Short Seminars Between quarters, Blue Bear offers Short Seminars, classes that only meet for one evening on a wide range of music topics. They are led by some of Blue Bear’s most popular teachers, along with special guest instructors. You can take one Short Seminar free with your annual membership fee. See page 29.
Private Lessons Blue Bear offers year-round private instruction on most instruments and voice, as well as music theory, composition, sight singing, ear training, and improvisation. Our students range from “square one” beginners both young and old, to serious musicians preparing themselves for study at places like Berklee College of Music and Musicians Institute. See page 8.
Teens, Kids & Toddlers Summer Camps (ages 8 to 17)
Little Bears (ages 4 mos. to 5 yrs.)
Blue Bear’s weeklong music day camps include rock band, guitar, voice, songwriting, and recording. See pages 28-31.
Little Bears music classes are for the very young ones and their parent or caregiver. Our teachers are musicians who involve students in music through singing, rhythms, games, and movement to improve speech development, and motor skills as well as listening and concentration. See pages 38-43.
All Star Bands (ages 11 to 17) Our youth All Star Band program is for young musicians in grades 6-12 who are serious about developing their musicianship and ensemble playing skills. All Star Bands rehearse on Saturdays and each band has the opportunity to play a live show three times during the year. See pages 32-35.
Group Classes (ages 6 to 17) Blue Bear offers after-school classes like Instrument Petting Zoo and Singing and Performance, as well as After School Rock Bands for tweens and teens who are already rockin’. Will start mid-September; page 36
Community Programs Blue Bear is a nonprofit organization committed to making a difference beyond the scope of our in-house programs. We partner with a variety of schools and community centers to provide free and low-cost youth music education. Most Blue Bear Community Programs are partially or fully underwritten by our generous supporters. See pages 44-47.
A local nonprofit arts organization. Blue Bear is a nonprofit organization founded in 1971. As the Bay Area’s preeminent school of rock, blues, jazz, folk, and other popular music styles, Blue Bear is a home for musicians of all skill levels and a place where each student’s unique talents and goals are recognized and supported. We are located at Fort Mason Center in San Francisco, with satellite locations at Lennon Studios in SOMA, at the Center for New Music in MidMarket, Noe Valley Ministry in Noe Valley, and at Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley. Blue Bear also partners with local schools and community organizations to bring exciting music programs into the classroom. bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 3
Why Blue Bear? Students of all ages pursue music studies at Blue Bear, year after year. Here are a few reasons why.
Community Blue Bear welcomes everyone, whether you just want to play music for your own personal enjoyment or you’re seriously considering music as a career. Blue Bear unites people who are passionate about music. Many of our Band Workshops have spun off practice bands that continue to play together long after the end of the quarter. Some have even turned into regularly gigging bands. And of course, many friendships (and a few marriages) have begun in Blue Bear classes! Blue Bear fosters a casual and supportive atmosphere, free from the judgment, academic rigor, and competitiveness of some schools. Blue Bear has a strong track record. We’ve offered popular music instruction since 1971, so our programming reflects deep experience and lots of student feedback.
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Individualized Attention Blue Bear offers one-on-one consultations. As a new student, you’ll discuss your musical experience and goals with Program Director Dennis Criteser, who can answer your questions and work with you to determine which teachers and classes are best suited to your needs. Consultations are available whenever you have questions about what to do next. Blue Bear keeps class sizes small. Most of our guitar classes are limited to six or seven students. Voice classes that involve solo singing are usually limited to five or six, while most vocal technique classes are limited to eight. At these sizes, our teachers can give individual attention as needed.
Top Notch Teachers Blue Bear instructors are committed to teaching as a profession. Our teachers are here because they are dedicated to helping students meet their goals, not just to make some extra money on the side. And if a teacher you start with doesn’t seem like the right fit for you, it’s easy to notify our staff and request a different one.
lowest per-lesson rate. Refunds for unused lessons are available and you may cancel a lesson with two days’ advance notice. (Most schools don’t allow cancellations at all.)
Blue Bear teachers work as musicians. Our instructors are experts in their craft, with significant experience in all facets of the music industry (see pages 56-61).
Convenience Blue Bear has ample low-cost parking. Parking in the Fort Mason Center pay lot is easy and inexpensive, with free parking usually available nearby. If we know in advance that a Fort Mason Center event will make parking scarce, we’ll send you an e-mail alert. Blue Bear provides flexible payment and scheduling options for private lessons. You can pay by the lesson, or prepay for four or ten lessons to get the
When you consider Blue Bear’s unique benefits and affordable cost, it’s easy to see why many students continue their studies here for several years.
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SUMMERTIME AT THE BEAR The summer is a bit different at the Bear. Gone are the afterschool programs and the All Star Bands (both waiting to get started again in the Fall) and in are the summer camps! The summer camps are a reminder of what summer is all about. Summer is the time to have fun exploring new ideas, new music and new musical friends. While many of the kids at Blue Bear are having their unique camp experience I want to encourage all of you to explore new musical territory this summer. To begin with: If you haven’t used your one free short seminar that comes with your Blue Bear membership (and many of you haven’t) – grab one now and launch into a summer of new music making! If you’re taking private lessons try adding a class. If you’re taking classes try having a few private lessons. If you’ve never been in one of our band workshops, that’s certainly something to consider (there is nothing like rocking out at a club for your family and friends). Just as hearing new music can be a wonderful surprise, so playing new music or learning in a new musical environment can provide new rewards. I know a long-time keyboard player that took up the guitar and discovered a whole new world of music through the lens of a new instrument. I know guitar players who have spent time on a synthesizer and found the universe of sounds available to be a path to all kinds of new musical ideas. Musical explorations are liberating! Take advantage of summer to encounter something new in your musical world.
Steve Savage Co-Founder and Executive Director
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IT’S TIME TO PLAY Blue Bear’s mission is simple: to empower you to play the music you love. To that end we offer a broad selection of programs for aspiring and accomplished musicians of all ages. Our Little Bears classes, for ages 4 months to 5 years, are a wonderful introduction to the joys of music. For kids and teens we offer private lessons yearround, and during the school year our after-school and All Star bands are back in action. And now it’s time to think Summer Camps for your young rocker see page 28 for week-long day camps in songwriting, rock band, voice and guitar. For adults we have private lessons, band workshops, and group classes covering guitar, voice, ukulele, bass, theory, and songwriting. If you’re free one night June 27-30, check out one of our Band Showcases at the BeatBox, 314 11th St. in the City. You’ll see Blue Bear students in action as they show off ten weeks of hard work. While most programs take place at our main Fort Mason campus, you’ll find some program offerings in Noe Valley, SOMA and midMarket locations. Back in 1979 and 1980 I studied piano and sax at Blue Bear. The lessons learned and the musical connections made helped many a musical dream come true for me. My sincere hope is that you too will discover at Blue Bear a place to enter into music or to deepen your musical skills as part of a community of people making and learning music together.
Dennis Criteser General Manager/Program Director
SUMMER QUARTER 2016 CALENDAR Spring Band Showcases June 27-30 Short Seminars June 27-30 Little Bears Classes July 11-September 2 (8 weeks) Adult Classes July 5-September 19 (11 weeks) Band Workshops July 5-September 12 (10 weeks) Summer Band Workshop Showcases September 19-22 Blue Bear is closed on July 4 but open Saturday July 2, and is closed for Labor Day but open Saturday September 3. bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 7
PRIVATE LESSONS
Private Lessons Blue Bear offers private instruction for students ages five years and up, on most instruments and voice, plus music theory, recording, songwriting, sightsinging, ear training, and improvisation. Our students range from “square-one” beginners to serious musicians preparing for study at elite music schools.
Prices, Payments & Schedules Start lessons anytime — just give us a call at 415.673.3600 to discuss teacher and scheduling options. • One-hour and half-hour lessons are available Monday through Thursday afternoons and evenings, and Saturdays during the daytime. • You can schedule one-hour lessons either weekly or every other week. • Purchase a 4-pack or 10-pack for a discounted rate. • Take a trial lesson with a teacher at the single-lesson rate. To continue, you must pay our annual $35 Member Fee.
Private Hours Most instruments Drums, Voice, Studio
1 lesson $65 $70
4 lessons $245 $265
10 lessons $570 $625
Private Half-Hours or Shared-with a-Friend Hours (per student) Most instruments Drums, Voice, Studio 8 Summer 2016 415.673.3600
1 lesson $37 $40
4 lessons $135 $145
10 lessons $315 $340
To drop your lessons
Private lesson refunds
We will reserve your spot on your teacher’s schedule until you tell us you want to discontinue your lessons, even when your lesson package ends. If you wish to stop, you must notify us at least two days before your next scheduled lesson. And just tell us if you’d like to try a different teacher or instrument anytime.
Any remaining lesson credit is refundable for one year after your last charged lesson. For partial refunds on a 4-pack or 10-pack discount package, charged lessons will be pro-rated at the next higher rate.
To cancel a lesson • Notify the desk in person. • Call the desk at 415.673.3600. • Email cancel@bluebearmusic.org. • Don’t cancel through your teacher. If your lesson is on: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
For lessons canceled with two days’ notice, you will not be charged. Lessons canceled with less than two days’ notice will be charged in full so your teacher can be paid for the reserved time. You need to notify desk by: Saturday 3pm Anytime Sunday (leave a message) Monday 8pm Tuesday 8pm Wednesday 8pm Thursday 8pm
If you are behind on tuition, we will ask you to catch up before confirming your next lesson. We may sometimes call to ask if you’re able to move your lesson time on a particular date. If the change is not convenient, feel free to keep your usual time.
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PRIVATE LESSONS
Policies & Procedures
ADULT CLASSES
Adult Band Workshops The heart and soul of Blue Bear! Our band workshops are student bands that rehearse and later perform a 40-minute set of material at a San Francisco club. Get placed in a band after a brief discussion with Program Director Dennis Criteser. You’ll help choose the songs the band plays, and an experienced professional will guide the rehearsals. A full band consists of two singers, two guitarists, bass, drums, and keys. Horn players are welcome too. We’ll supply the drums, amps, keyboard, and PA. Band workshops are 10-weeks long plus performance.
Rock & Blues Wide open to style, material may range from oldies to blues, alternative to Top 40—you name it! 10 Summer 2016 415.673.3600
Blues, Soul & Roots Covers classic electric blues and its influences, including roots rock and roots country.
Classic Rock Draws mostly from the repertoire of the 1960s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. Students decide what “classic” means!
Modern Rock & Contemporary Bands You’ll perform material from a broad range of artists and bands with releases from the past ten to fifteen years.
ADULT CLASSES
Acoustic Rock For acoustic players including guitar, bass, keys, singers, and percussion, who want to play unplugged versions of their favorite rock tunes or songs from the indie/folk movement.
David Bowie
TUITION OPTIONS 1. $395 for the Workshop and Performance. Students may also take one private lesson at a discounted rate of $40 to work on their material outside of class.
Prince
2. $595 for the Workshop and Performance plus four private lessons. (Private lessons will help you get the most out of your workshop experience!)
This intermediate band will raise the funk and rock it like it’s 1999, helping ease the sorrow of another master who has left us too soon.
To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee. 3-pay options available – inquire at 415.673.3600.
This intermediate band will explore the deep repertoire of this innovative and influential master of reinvention.
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ADULT CLASSES
Band Workshop Schedule At Fort Mason Center
At Lennon Studios
Basic Rock & Blues Mon 6-8:30pm 7/11-9/12 w/Amanda VanderMeer
Basic Rock & Blues Mon 6-8:30pm 7/11-9/12 w/Sean Leahy
Intermediate Rock & Blues Mon 8:30-11pm 7/11-9/12 w/Amanda VanderMeer
Intermediate Rock & Blues Mon 8:30-11pm 7/11-9/12 w/Sean Leahy
Intermediate Rock & Blues Tue 6-8:30pm 7/5-9/6 w/J.T. Locke
Basic Modern Rock Tue 8-10:30pm 7/5-9/6 w/Janak Ramachandran
Basic Rock & Blues Tues 8:30-11pm 7/5-9/6 w/J.T. Locke
Intermediate Prince Wed 6-8:30pm 7/6-9/7 w/Sean Leahy
Intermediate Rock & Blues Wed 6-8:30pm 7/6-9/7 w/Mark Schuh
Basic Rock & Blues Wed 8:30-11pm 7/6-9/7 w/Sean Leahy
Intermediate David Bowie Wed 8:30-11pm 7/6-9/7 w/Mark Schuh
Basic Classic Rock Thu 6-8:30 pm 7/7-9/8 w/Sean Leahy
Basic Rock & Blues Thu 6-8:30pm 7/7-9/8 w/Amanda VanderMeer
Intermediate Rock & Blues Thu 8:30-11 pm 7/7-9/8 w/Randy Clark
Basic Acoustic Rock Thu 8:30-11pm 7/7-9/8 w/J.T. Locke
Intermediate Blues, Soul and Roots Sun 4-6:30pm 7/10-9/11 w/Randy Clark
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Basic level bands do not require any previous band playing experience, though being able to learn parts by ear or with the help of a private instructor is best. Intermediate level bands require at least a year of previous band experience along with the ability to read chord charts and learn parts by ear. Guitar players should be able to move easily between open and barre chords. Drummers should be able to play steadily at fast and slow tempi, fill comfortably, and play both rock and blues grooves.
Bass players should be able to play various grooves easily and lock with the drummer. Singers should be able to sing in tune and have a strong enough sense of time so that song entry points and phrasing can be consistently executed. Keyboard players should be able to form major and minor triads without notation.
Performances Performances will be held September 19-22 at BeatBox, 314 11th St., San Francisco. Be sure to check out the Spring Quarter Band Showcases at BeatBox on June 27-30 from 7:30-11:30 pm.
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ADULT CLASSES
Prerequisites
BYOG
ADULT CLASSES
Bring your own guitar! Acoustic (or electric) guitar is required.
Adult Guitar Classes Group classes cost $260 (or $90x3) and meet for 11 weeks at Fort Mason, except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.
Guitar for the Square-One Beginner
Guitar for People Who Know a Little
Always wanted to learn how to play the guitar, but not sure where or how to start? This class is for you! You’ll start rocking out with hands-on playing time the very first day, and you’ll begin learning folk and rock songs using basic chords and strums.
If you have a few months playing experience and know handful of chords (about eight of the following: E, A, D, G, C, Em, Am, E7, A7, D7) but aren’t quite making all chord changes smoothly, this class will help you expand on what you already know and take your playing to the next level. This class covers more songs and skills, including basic fingerpicking.
Wed 8-9pm 7/6-9/14 w/J.T. Locke Thu 6-7pm 7/7-9/15 w/Janak Ramachandran Mon 7:30-8:30pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Devin Lane • $240 @ Noe Valley Ministry
Wed 6-7pm 7/6-9/14 w/Janak Ramachandran Wed 8-9pm 7/6-9/14 w/Kent Brown Tue 7-8pm 7/5-9/13 @ Lennon Studios
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Guitar for People Who Know a Little More
Mon 7-8pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Brian Gire • $240 Wed 8-9pm 7/6-9/14 w/Mike Rao Thu 6-7pm 7/7-9/15 w/Kent Brown
Acoustic Guitar IV For graduates of Know a Little More or for those with nine months to a year of playing experience, Acoustic Guitar IV will expand song repertoire and skills using both rhythm and fingerstyle playing and begin work on barre chords. Tue 9-10pm 7/5-9/13 w/Mark Schuh
Intended for those with more experience. Call 415.673.3600 for accurate placement. Acoustic V.1 Mon 8:15-9:15pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Janak Ramachandran • $240 Acoustic V.2 Wed 7-8pm 7/6-9/14 w/J.T. Locke Acoustic VI Mon 6-7pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Kent Brown • $240 Acoustic VII.1 Mon 8-9pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Kent Brown • $240 Acoustic VII.2 Wed 7-8pm 7/6-9/14 w/Janak Ramachandran Acoustic VIII Wed 8-9pm 7/6-9/14 w/Brian Gire Acoustic X Tue 8-9pm 7/5-9/13 w/Kent Brown Acoustic XXI Mon 7-8pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Kent Brown • $240
Wed 7-8pm 7/6-9/14 w/Brian Gire Thu 8:15-9:15pm 7/7-9/15 w/Janak Ramachandran Mon 6:30-7:30pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Devin Lane • $240 @Noe Valley Ministry
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ADULT CLASSES
For graduates of Know a Little or those with about six months of playing experience, you’ll continue working on songs with an emphasis on more advanced chords. You should know 10-15 chords and be able to make many of the chord changes smoothly. You may still have some difficulty playing the four-string (non-barre) F chord, and no one at this level is playing barre chords yet. You may or may not have learned some fingerpicking.
Continuing Acoustic Guitar
ADULT CLASSES
Adult Guitar Classes Group classes cost $260 (or $90x3) and meet for 11 weeks at Fort Mason, except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.
Electric Lead Guitar For guitarists who are comfortable playing open position and barre chords but with little previous lead playing work, this class will focus on scales and improvising within blues and rock chord progressions. Mon 9-10pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/J.T. Locke • $240
Electric Lead Guitar IV For graduates of Electric Lead Guitar II, this class will continue to develop soloing skills over blues and rock chord changes by expanding your
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scale knowledge and with lots of inclass playing. Thu 7:30-8:30pm 7/7-9/15 w/J.T. Locke
ADULT CLASSES
Electric Rhythm Guitar
NEW! Note for Note with Jimi
This class will focus on improving timing, reading basic rhythms, and integrating right hand muting and accenting techniques. You’ll then apply these skills to tighten up your groove, and make you a more confident rhythm guitarist. Musical examples by Johnny Ramone, Keith Richards, Jack White, and other rhythm legends will provide fun riffs to practice on. For guitarists who are comfortable playing open position and bar chords.
In this class you’ll learn some classics of the master: “Purple Haze,” “The Wind Cries Mary,” and “Red House.” In addition to learning to play these songs you’ll discuss Hendrix’s technique and his influences ranging from Curtis Mayfield and Albert King to British psychedelia.
Thu 7-8 m 7/7-9/15 w/Kent Brown
Electric Rhythm Guitar XII For graduates of Electric Rhythm Guitar XI. Tue 6-7pm 7/5-9/13 w/Randy Clark
Wed 6-7pm 7/6-9/14 w/Mike Rao
Blues/Jazz Guitar IV For players conversant with 12-bar blues and soloing, this class will build on your understanding of key centers, music theory, comping and improv. You will also cover arpeggios, scales and modes using the CAGED system. Wed 7-8pm 7/6-9/14 w/Mike Rao bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 17
Adult Jam Classes
ADULT CLASSES
Have fun playing with others! In a relaxed setting, you’ll learn and play through tunes from folk, bluegrass, Celtic, and rock traditions. You can take solos and sing if you’d like, or just play rhythm with the group. Jam classes are open to guitar, mandolin, fiddle, and banjo. New students can join ongoing classes; call 415.673.3600 to discuss placement options.
Acoustic Jam Basics
Intermediate Acoustic Jam VI
For those who are comfortable with basic playing skills on their instrument, this class will teach a repertoire of simple songs that will serve as vehicles for improvising. You’ll learn melody lines, basic information needed to take solos, and listening skills.
For graduates of Intermediate Acoustic Jam V or for those who are comfortable with basic playing skills on their instrument and soloing experience, this class will continue working on songs, melody lines and expanding scale knowledge and listening skills.
Thu 8:30-9:45pm 7/7-9/15 w/Brian Gire • $320 (or $110x3)
Acoustic Jam Basics III Graduates of Acoustic Jam Basics II will continue to learn new songs and develop soloing skills. Tue 8:15-9:30pm 7/5-9/13 w/Brian Gire • $320 (or $110x3)
Intermediate Acoustic Jam V For graduates of Intermediate Acoustic Jam IV or for those who are comfortable with basic playing skills on their instrument and soloing experience, this class will continue working on songs, melody lines and expanding scale knowledge and listening skills. Tue 7-8:15pm 7/5-9/13 w/Brian Gire • $320 (or $110x3)
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Mon 8-9:30pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Brian Gire • $345 (or $115x3)
Acoustic Jam Repertoire New guitar, mandolin, fiddle, Dobro, and banjo students with strong scale knowledge and soloing experience can join Acoustic Jam Repertoire, an ongoing class of regulars who have been jamming together since 2009. Thu 7-8:30pm 7/7-9/15 w/Brian Gire • $380 (or $130x3)
Beginning Ukulele
Ukulele III
Class members will learn to play basic chords and to play songs in folk and rock styles. Also covered: tuning, ukulele care, and basic strums. No prerequisites, but a ukulele is required.
Graduates of Ukulele II or those with a handful of chords under their belt will learn a repertoire of fun songs, work on new strumming patterns and expand their chord vocabulary. Singing will be encouraged.
Mon 7:30-8:30pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Mark Schuh • $240
Ukulele II
Tue 8-9pm 7/5-9/13 w/Mark Schuh
For graduates of Beginning Ukulele or for those who have learned some basic chords on their own, students will expand their chord vocabulary and learn to play more songs in folk, rock, and Hawaiian styles. Mon 8:30-9:30pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Mark Schuh • $240
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ADULT CLASSES
Adult Ukulele Classes
Group classes cost $260 (or $90x3) and meet for 11 weeks at Fort Mason, except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.
ADULT CLASSES
Adult Voice Classes Group classes cost $320 (or $110x3) and meet for 11 weeks at Fort Mason, except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.
Singing for People Who Can’t Sing You know who you are! But this class will prove you wrong. By the end of eleven weeks, you’ll see improvement and enjoy increased confidence. Thu 8-9:15pm 7/7-9/15 w/Lauren Ona Mon 8:15-9:30pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Lauren Ona • $290 (or $100x3) @ Center for New Music Thu 7-8:15pm 7/14-9/22 w/Joe Morgan @ Noe Valley Ministry
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More Singing for People Who Can’t Sing Graduates of Singing for People Who Can’t Sing will continue to strengthen their voice and work on new songs and singing skills. Tue 7-8pm 7/5-9/13 w/Lauren Ona • $260 (or $90x3) Mon 7-8:15pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Lauren Ona • $290 (or $100x3) @ Center for New Music
ADULT CLASSES
Learn to Sing: Group Singing for Beginners
Learn to Sing III: Improving Tone and Projection
This class begins with a solid foundation in technique and you’ll learn to apply those basic ideas in guided group singing of classic songs. Topics covered include fundamentals of posture and breathing, vowels and consonants, resonance and tone, and basic principles of song delivery.
For graduates of Group and Solo Singing, the group singing half of this class will continue to develop your voice with more comprehensive exercises, songs focused on improving tone and projection, further work on range development, and mic technique. In the latter half of the class students will sing songs of their choosing that work into the bridge, with more supportive feedback and guidance on improving tone, dynamics and delivery.
Mon 7-8:15pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Janak Ramachandran • $290
Thu 7-8:15pm 7/7-9/15 w/Janak Ramachandran
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ADULT CLASSES
Adult Voice Classes Group classes cost $320 (or $110x3) and meet for 11 weeks at Fort Mason, except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.
Singing for People Who Can Sing
Vocal Technique with Raz Kennedy
For those with some band, theater, or choral singing experience but little or no previous vocal instruction. Sessions will cover the basics of proper vocal technique: breathing and support, warmups, developing your range, tone, placement and articulation. There’ll be lots of group vocal drills and some individual presentation of songs with work on mic technique.
For experienced singers, this class is an overview of the basic principles needed to sing expressively and unhindered, utilizing a comprehensive method which provides an effective, safe, and healthy approach to singing which is applicable to any musical dynamic, genre, or style.
Thu 8:15-9:30pm 7/14-9/22 w/Joe Morgan @ Noe Valley Ministry
Tue 7-8pm 7/19-9/20 (10 weeks) w/Raz Kennedy • $305
Vocal Technique II w/Raz This class will continue to work on refining your technique. For students who have worked with Raz before in Vocal Technique I or in private lessons. Tue 8-9pm 7/19-9/20 (10 weeks) w/Raz Kennedy • $305
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ADULT CLASSES
Adult Voice Classes Beginning Jazz Vocals
Jazz Vocal Performance
This class will introduce you to the repertoire and the stylistic approaches taken by both classic and contemporary jazz singers. Sing to music-minus-one recordings and receive one-on-one coaching. Space is limited to four students.
Intermediate to advanced vocalists will rehearse and perform a repertoire of jazz songs with expert piano accompaniment, leading up to a performance in a San Francisco club. Open to singers who are new to jazz as well as those who are familiar with the repertoire. Tuition includes a rehearsal with a bassist and a drummer. Space is limited to five students.
Wed 6-7:15pm 7/6-9/14 w/Lea Cenvtauri
“ Vo i c e a ton o 1 was f fun a Janak n is such d enthu an s suppo iastic and I abso rtive teache lu r. any cl tely would t ass he ake is in the future teaching . He m class s ade o enjo yable. ” – Mich elle D.
Thur 8-9:30pm 7/7-9/8 (10 weeks plus performance) w/Sharman Duran • $455 (or $155x3)
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ADULT CLASSES
Adult Voice Classes Group classes cost $320 (or $110x3) and are 11-weeks long, except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.
Rock & Pop Vocal Performance Designed as a follow-up to Janak’s Learn to Sing series, or for vocalists in or preparing for a band or Band Workshop, this class combines vocal style and performance instruction with individualized coaching on material you want to sing. The vocal style component will guide students in how to affect the vocal delivery of songs from varying genres with an emphasis on tools that bring the emotional content of the lyric to life.
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The stage presence section of the class will introduce students to techniques from the acting world that allow the student to marry the emotional choices they are making vocally with stage movement and behavior. This class is, ideally, for students with some vocal training and can be repeated as needed. Space is limited to four students. Wed 8-9:15pm 7/6-9/14 w/Janak Ramachandran
Adult Bass & Theory Classes Group classes cost $260 (or $90x3) and are 11-weeks long. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.
Beginning Bass
Music Theory for Guitar
This class is a square-one beginner class. We expect you know nothing about music and that you are picking up the instrument for the first time. If you have played guitar before, you should try Accelerated Bass for Guitarists.
This class is for guitarists who have finally realized that they need to learn the basics: music terminology and basic theory taught in terms of standard music notation, in addition to how things look on the fretboard.
Sat Noon-1pm 7/9-9/17 w/Melissa Leigh
Accelerated Bass for Guitarists If you already play guitar, then you’re ready to get on the fast track to becoming more in-demand by learning the bass! This class will teach right hand fingering technique and will reveal how the bass, working with the drums, provides the foundation for most songs. You’ll learn bass lines in different styles and upon graduation will receive a $100 discount toward playing bass in one of Blue Bear’s Band Workshops.
Wed 7-8pm 7/6-9/14 w/Kent Brown
Chord Magic for Guitarists This class will explain the basics of chord construction with a minimum of “theory talk.” Chords and chord progressions are the juicy part of music theory, and this class will have you naming and creating chords, analyzing progressions, and understanding music in a new way. TBA w/Mark Schuh
Sat 11 am-Noon 7/9-9/17 w/Melissa Leigh bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 25
ADULT CLASSES
If you have at least 9 months experience on bass and can learn and play a variety of different bass lines, join one of our rewarding Band Workshops! (see pages 10-13).
ADULT CLASSES
Songwriting/Recording Group classes meet for 11 weeks at Fort Mason, except where noted. To enroll, students must be current with their annual $35 Member Fee.
Write Your First Song In this introductory class you’ll learn about song forms and how to write chord progressions, melodies, and lyrics. In-class assignments will guide you step-by-step through writing a complete song and give you the tools you need to generate ideas and complete songs on your own. In the final weeks of class you’ll make demo recordings of your work in Blue Bear’s Studio Z. Mon 8-9:30pm 7/11-9/19 (10 weeks) w/Pamela Parker • $345 (or $115x3)
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Songwriting Workshop with Peter Case In this workshop, Case offers secrets of the craft that will have you immediately writing more powerful and interesting songs. The atmosphere is fun, comfortable, and at times humorous, but the content is serious and will enable you to surprise yourself with a new batch of songs composed in weekly assignments. Mon 7-10pm 7/18-8/22 (6 weeks) w/Peter Case • $425
ADULT CLASSES
Adult Seminars Blue Bear offers one-night-only seminars on a variety of topics, led by some of our most popular teachers and special guest instructors — a low-cost way to dip your toes in the water!
Beginning Harmonica This seminar will focus on basic techniques (bends, vibrato, tongue blocking), ways of enriching tone, and playing blues in second and third positions (soloing and accompanying). Bring a harmonica in the key of C. Tue June 28, 7-9pm Ilya Portnov • $30
Jamming with Others For musicians with little to no experience playing with others, this seminar will give you a road map of what to look for, what to expect, and how to proceed the next time you have a chance to make music with a friend. Bring your instrument! Wed June 29, 7-9 pm J.T. Locke • $30
Voice!
breath and the ear, and learn about styles of singing from jazz and pop to show tunes and rap. Includes group singing and vocal exercises. Wed June 29, 7-9pm Lea Centauri • $30
The Tools of Music This series of seminars will explore three key elements of music through listening to a wide range of classic rock and pop songs. Each seminar is open to everyone. You’ll find them to be illuminating introductions to theory and they’ll expand your listening skills and understanding of music. Tue June 28, 7-9 pm Melody Wed June 29, 7-9 pm, Harmony Thu June 30, 7-9 pm, Tone Color Brian Gire • $30 each
This seminar is a wonderful overview of the voice as the most basic tool of human expression. You’ll work with bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 27
YOUTH CLASSES
Kids & Teens Summer Camps Blue Bear’s Summer Camp program offers exciting opportunities for kids in grades 4-12 to make great music with their peers— Monday through Friday 10 am-3 pm for most camps—with individualized and group instruction, full band rehearsals, and Friday performances. Tuition is $550 per camp except where noted.
Get Ready to Rock July 11-15
Rock U 1 June 20-24 and
(grades 4-6)
August 1-5 (grades 6-8)
Beginning musicians with six months of lessons on an instrument will play easy songs, sing, jam, try out different instruments, and play musical games. Includes individualized instrument and vocal instruction.
These young musicians get to play the music they like with their peers. A minimum of one year of lessons is required. A typical day includes group lessons in the morning, a lunchtime jam with staff, and band rehearsals in the afternoon. Repertoire is selected by the group.
Girls Rock! June 13-17 and June 20-24 ($495) (grades 4-7) Campers will learn to play simple pop and rock songs, try out new instruments, and perform at the end of the week. Some musical experience is helpful, but is not a requirement. Includes individualized instrument and vocal instruction.
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Rock U 2 June 13-17 and July 18-22 (grades 7-10) This camp is similar to Rock U 1, but the students are little older. A minimum of one year of lessons is required. Repertoire is selected by the group.
YOUTH CLASSES
Rock U 3 August 8-12
Hard Rock U 2 July 5-8 ($440)
(grades 8-12)
(grades 7-10)
These musicians have been playing for a minimum of three years and get lots of hands-on experience jamming, soloing, songwriting, and playing complex arrangements. Repertoire is selected by the group.
These musicians rock hard! A minimum of one year of lessons is required and the repertoire is selected by the group. A typical day includes group lessons in the morning, a lunchtime jam with staff, and band rehearsals in the afternoon.
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YOUTH CLASSES
Kids & Teens Summer Camps Songwriting Camps
Guitar Camp July 5-8 ($440)
Campers who want to create and play original music learn how their favorite bands write songs through workshops on lyrics, form, arranging, and more, and will write, arrange, perform, and record their own songs.
(grades 7-11)
Songwriting 1 June 27July 1 ($575) (grades 6-9) Songwriting 2 July 25-29 ($575) (grades 8-12)
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Campers will work on lead and rhythm guitar techniques, writing guitar parts, learning classic guitar solos, and crafting tones with amps and effects. Campers should have been playing for two years or more and know open chords, E- and A-form barre chords, and minor pentatonic scales.
YOUTH CLASSES
Voice Camps These campers will expand their vocal abilities through group and solo singing with musical accompaniment. Topics include techniques and warm up, harmony and round singing, musical games, musicianship, and more. If you have a singing kid, this is the camp for them! Voice Camp 1 July 18-22 (1-3 pm, $225) (grades 3-6) Voice Camp 2 June 27-July 1 (1-3 pm, $225) (grades 6-9)
Enrollment Information For skill level guidelines and enrollment info, visit bluebearmusic.org/ summercamp2016 and click on your desired camp. Please note that some of the advanced camps may require an audition, while others will work with whatever skillset you bring to the group.
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ALL STAR BAND
ryan hickey
j.t. locke
Blue Bear’s All Star Band Program enters its fifth year this fall. Program founder Ryan Hickey has moved to Shanghai to pursue some exciting international experiences and opportunities, and J.T. Locke, All Star band co-teacher in three of the past four years, will now steward the program. Our original vision for the All Star Band was to use rock and roll to foster teamwork, commitment, growth, courage, responsibility, stage professionalism and fun. J.T. embraces that vision and brings his own special passion about connecting with teens through music. Having played with and learned from many talented and famous musicians over the past 25 years, J.T. brings a wealth of connections, resources and skills to work with the next generation of rockers. Joining J.T. as co-teachers, will be his partner Amanda VanderMeer along with Tennessee Mowrey. Amanda and J.T. have worked together professionally as touring and recording artists since 2000, and as teachers and mentors to young musicians since 2007. Tennessee and J.T. have co-taught the past three summers in Blue Bear summer camps. So we’re very excited about the experienced team that will lead our 2016-2017 All Star bands. 32 Summer 2016 415.673.3600
ALL STAR BANDS ROCK THE FILLMORE... On March 19, as part of Blue Bear’s annual Benefit featuring Allen Stone at The Fillmore, select members of the 2015/2016 All Star Bands took the stage to show their stuff.
Looking back over the past four years, program founder Ryan Hickey said, “When we started this program, we intended to create an atmosphere full of community and skill building and a fun platform to rock out, with the opportunity to perform in real, professional venues. Now I see we managed just a little bit more than that. We’ve created a collective of dedicated young players willing to learn and develop the traits for success, on and off the stage.” Looking forward to the coming school year, J.T. wants to tighten the community of young musicians in the ASB program, while bringing more attention to showmanship in the performances and strengthening the talents of each student as they move along their individual musical journeys.
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The All Star Band program is a comprehensive 9-month performance and education curriculum for 5th-12th graders. Using rock music as a platform, students strengthen their instrumental technique, ensemble playing, performance, improvisation, music theory, and songwriting. This unique program provides fantastic opportunities to play real shows in real venues around San Francisco. Students participate in weekly rehearsals, with guided instruction by inspirational teachers. Program Requirements
All Star Bands require a commitment of the majority of weekly rehearsals. Students will audition and be placed in the program based on age, skill level and availability of spots in ensembles. Students must have a basic understanding of their instrument or voice and we highly recommend current, ongoing music lessons.
Times & Tuition
Tuition for September 2016-May 2017 is $725 per semester with a two-semester commitment. We offer payment plans and income-based sliding scale. We will have multiple bands with rehearsals on Saturdays that could be 11 am-1 pm, 1-3 pm, or 3-5 pm.
Audition & Placement Requirements
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Auditions will take place on Saturdays August 27, September 3 and 10. Other times may be available. Email michael@bluebearmusic.org to set up an audition. Entering musicians must prepare any cover or original song (with backing track or with an instrument and singing), plus one of the following to play with a backing band (in a key of your choice: “Radioactive” (Imagine Dragons), “Blitzkrieg Bop” (The Ramones), or “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” (Green Day) . You’ll also have a chance to demonstrate improv, chord changes, varying rhythm patterns, scales, rudiments and vocal range.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING... It was wonderful to see the bands really command the stage and ROCK! Your hard work is much appreciated! – Alexis W.
For the past four years, my daughter has taken private lessons, songwriting workshops, and been in several bands at Blue Bear. If she could be there every day, all day, she absolutely would. She has grown tremendously as a musician and, more significantly, as a person. The teachers are inspiring and create a supportive and welcoming atmosphere that is rarely seen. – Hilda M.
The Blue Bear All Star Band has given me tremendous rewarding experiences not only working in a band, enhancing my guitar and vocal skills, but making great long lasting friendships with my band mates and instructors. I was thrilled and grateful for the opportunities given to us to perform at several venues such as The Chapel, Hotel Utah, The Fillmore and of course our stage “The Hall” inside our Blue Bear School. – Zach L.
The performing locations and number of opportunities provided by Blue Bear for its students are remarkable. The music study is serious yet fun. The staff is available and involved. – Wendy B.
WOW! What a fabulous experience all the way around! Hats off to all the wonderful folks at Blue Bear. Our kids were amazing! – Annette G.
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YOUTH CLASSES
T
Kids & Teens Group Classes After School Rock Band
Your Own Rock Band
These bands will learn and play songs by a variety of contemporary and classic bands and perform before an audience. Members should already be proficient on their instrument, and ideally be in private lessons concurrently. This is a chance to put the hard work of learning your instrument into practice, in real time, with other young rockers.
If you have a minimum group of four young musicians who would like to be coached as a band together, we can schedule an after school or weekend rock band session to start anytime. Call 415.673.3600 for details.
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Singing and Performance I (grades 2-5) Students will learn how to sing and perform songs from popular artists and also develop songwriting skills. In addition to solo and group singing, kids will also work on routines and stage presence.
These classes will next be offered in Fall Quarter.
YOUTH CLASSES
Singing and Performance II
Instrument Petting Zoo
(grades 6-8) This class is the same as Singing and Performance I but for 6th-8th grades.
(grades 2-4) This class is for beginners who are curious about music and want to learn about different instruments before choosing one to focus on. Students sing songs and play the four main rock band instruments—drums, bass, guitar and piano. They’ll learn fundamental concepts of rhythm, melody, harmony, meter, tempo, scale, and key. In addition, related concepts in basic math, pattern relations, and emotional qualities will be explored.
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Who And What Are Little Bears? Little Bears instructors are working musicians who know how early childhood music education helps develop speech, hand-eye coordination and creativity. Little Bears offers classes to suit any kid and their accompanying parent or caregiver (we want to make this fun for everyone in the classroom). Music affects all people of all ages; that’s why we began teaching classes for children as young as four months.
What can a newborn really do in a music class? A lot! At birth, children are receptive to sounds, vibrations and voices, so in our Baby Bears classes parents guide the lessons with gentle clapping and singing, learning to incorporate music into everyday routines. I’ve heard from many families over the years that before their child could stand, walk or talk, they could mimic clapping and memorize and respond to rhythm patterns from class. For our active new walkers and future rock star preschoolers, we offer Bouncy and Boogie Bears classes. Our teachers have developed special curricula that get everyone singing, doing far-out dance moves, and adding a healthy dose of music education that is actually fun! Did I mention intense drum circles?! If you are starting to sing the Summertime blues, you are in luck so are we! Join us this Summer for classes, and get your rock-U-education on!
Tanya Yule Little Bears Director B tle xc Lit e
ur gini e ng
LITTLE BEARS
Simply put, Little Bears bobble, weave and dance to their own beat.
ea a e l rs P , im t len rog tor r fu c e r r a i m D tm e usic classes in h
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LITTLE BEARS
Why Little Bears? 1. Our teachers are actual musicians who love making music. 2. Singing helps children with vocal and speech development. 3. Dancing and instrument play help children develop motor skills. 4. Aural training helps children build listening and concentration skills. 5. B ecause kids and adults LOVE to rock. So let your little ones sing their hearts out, move to the music, and make some noise!
Sliding Scale Blue Bear wants to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to participate in music education. Thanks to community support we have been able to provide a generous sliding-scale program for our tiniest of rock stars, offering from 20%-85% off. For more information or to see if you qualify, please call 415.673.3600 bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 39
Enroll online! bluebearmusic.org/littlebears Check the Little bears site for schedule updates and class cancelations.
Group Classes
LITTLE BEARS
Baby Bears (4 months-1 year) This class will introduce your child to the wonderful world of music through lap songs, finger-plays, singalongs and rhythm-based activities. Parents in this class learn to sing a variety of playful and soothing rhythms and melodies to bring home and use for bath time, dinner time, play time and sleepy time. Please bring a blanket.
Bouncy Bears (1-3 years) Children in this class will create musical sounds and rhythms with their voices and bodies, play finger games, dance and move to the music, hear familiar and new songs and rock out during the percussion instrument jam. Parents be warned: there will be lots of jumping, bouncing, moving, grooving and playing in this class!
“Thank Bear’s s s to Blue we wer liding scale, e able t son the o ability t give our o exper music a ience which in t a young age ... tu a found rn, establishe ation d of music and a love for - Justin life.” W. 40 Summer 2016 415.673.3600
Boogie Bears (3-5 years) These preschoolers are ready to rock and roll, raise the roof and jam out! Children will discover their own talking and singing voices, dance to the beat, and explore rhythm with real musical instruments. Let’s make some music and boogie down to it!
Mixed Bears (6 months-5 years) This class is specially designed for parents with more than one child. Babies, toddlers, and big kids all join in the music making fun, watching and learning from one another. There will be plenty of music, movement and instrument play for children of all ages.
Little Bears Class Schedule Starts July 11 • 8 Week Summer Session • Tuition $185
Fort Mason Center
Noe Valley Ministry
2 Marina Blvd. Bldg. D, Rm. K
1021 Sanchez St. @ 23rd St.
Baby Bears (4 months to 5 years)
Baby Bears (4 months to 5 years)
Mon 4:30-5:15pm w/ Ayesha Thu 11-11:45am w/ Rachel
Wed 11-11:45am w/ Rachel
Bouncy Bears (1 to 3 years) Mon 3:30-4:15pm w/ Ayesha Tue 10-10:45am w/ Rachel
Mon 10-10:45am w/ Rachel Mon 3:30-4:15pm w/ Rachel Tue 10-10:45am w/ Rachel Wed 10-10:45am w/ T. Lin
Wed 10-10:45am w/ Tennessee Thu 10-10:45am w/ Rachel
Boogie Bears (3 to 5 years)
Thu 3:30-4:15pm w/ Michael
Mon 4:30-5:15pm w/ Rachel
Fri 11-11:45am w/ Ayesha Sun 10-10:45am w/ T. Lin
Mixed Bears (6 months to 5 years) Mon 11-11:45am w/ Rachel
Boogie Bears (3 to 5 years)
Sat 11-11:45am w/ T. Lin
Mon 11-11:45am w/ Michael Thu 4:30-5:15pm w/ Michael Fri 10-10:45am w/ Ayesha
The Sweetwater Music Hall 19 Corte Madera Ave, Mill Valley
Bouncy Bears (1 to 3 years) Mixed Bears (6 months to 5 years)
Mon 10-10:45am w/ Tennessee Thu 10-10:45am w/ Ayesha
Wed 11-11:45am w/ Tennessee
Boogie Bears (3 to 5 years)
Sun 11-11:45am w/ T. Lin
Mon 11-11:45am w/ Tennessee
Mixed Bears (6 months to 5 years) Thu 11-11:45am w/ Ayesha bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 41
LITTLE BEARS
Mon 10-10:45am w/ Michael
Bouncy Bears (1 to 3 years
Meet the Little Bears Teachers! T.Lin Chase “Music really feels like love and family to me.” Still being a kid at heart, T.Lin loves to work with lil’ ones to inspire them musically by incorporating a variety of percussion and drum based activities in her classes, along with thoughtful and inspired tunes that will keep you and your tot grooving all the way home!
LITTLE BEARS
Michael Chulada “I love Blue Bear’s passion for Rock and Roll, ‘cause I love Rock and Roll!” Michael Chulada joined Blue Bear this year working at many of our off-site community programs with after school kids. While studying for his certificate in early childhood development, the connection was made that Little Bears would be an awesome fit! Michael has played in many San Francisco bands and has a real knack for picking out fun songs that will get everyone movin’ and shakin’!
Rachel Hoiem “It brings me great joy to see my love of music passed on to new generations.” Rachel incorporates off-the-wall songs, amazing boogie woogie piano, and epic percussion breakdowns. Born and raised in San Francisco, she has a B.A. in music from SF State. Rachel also plays guitar and ukulele.
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Ayesha McGowan “I love working with children, their excitement constantly reminds me of why I fell in love with music when I was their age!” Ayesha McGowan hails from the East Coast but now calls the Bay Area her new home. She incorporates a range of folk, pop, soul, and kiddie classics to get those toes tappin’ and fingers snappin’ and has lots of experience working with infants as young as two weeks old! Ayesha plays violin, piano, guitar, and ukulele.
Tennessee Mowrey “It is a remarkable opportunity to give children what is sometimes their first taste of music.” Welcome the biggest Little Bear to our den! Tennessee has been rockin’ with Blue Bear since he was a weeone and went from camp kiddo, to assistant, to now teacher! With the ability to write songs on the spot about trucks, to jumping up, to get down, Tennessee will keep you and your lil’ rocker inspired and engaged the entire time.
e For mor ed a tly- sk frequen ars Little Be s, visit question ic.org/ rmus bluebea ears littleb
I have more than one child. Do I need to pay full tuition for both of them? We offer $40 off for additional siblings’ tuition when registered for the same class.
Do you offer trial classes? To keep our class sizes consistent and rockin’, we don’t offer free dropin trial classes. All students need to enroll and pay tuition in advance. However if it isn’t a good fit for any reason we are more than happy to issue a 100% refund. Just contact us two days before your second class.
Do you have a sliding scale? Blue Bear provides significant savings to students of all ages with financial need through our sliding scale tuition program.
The amount of support you receive is based on your gross income from your tax return. See bluebearmusic. org for more details.
Do you pro-rate? We are able to pro-rate after the second week of classes at a rate of $25/class. Please contact the front desk at 415.673.3600 to enroll.
What if I need to drop a class? If you decide to discontinue a class for any reason, please contact us at 415.673.3600 two days prior to the second class meeting for a full refund. After the second class, no refund shall be given. However, we understand children live on their own schedules and we will do our best to figure out a good solution for you.
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LITTLE BEARS
Little Bears FAQ
Community Programs Reaching Out! It’s an unfortunate truth that public school offerings of arts and music have suffered cuts that only seem to get deeper. In response, Blue Bear’s outreach and community programs for our city’s youth have expanded. Serving hundreds of music-starved children in public and private schools and in community centers citywide, Blue Bear’s programming fosters the musical flame in those who have it, and lights a spark in those who don’t.
COMMUNITY
With offerings like Digital Audio Production and Songwriting for teens in Bayview and Instrument Petting Zoo for elementary students in Twin Peaks, our community programming has something for everyone, regardless of ability. Our rock band programs—now at the Academy of Arts and Sciences and Rooftop Elementary—have produced bands that not only have performed in school talent shows but have graced professional stages at Cafe Du Nord and Bimbo’s as well. These programs have led to wonderful partnerships with organizations like the YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, GLIDE Memorial Church, SFUSD, The Mix at the SF Public Library, and more. Most important, we have witnessed first-hand the powerful and positive changes that involvement in the arts can bring our kids. Students in the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco have created incredibly poignant and personal songs, demonstrating the cathartic power of writing and performing music. Some of our programs have produced young musicians who’ve been accepted at the prestigious Ruth Asawa School of the Arts to continue their artistic growth, while others have received scholarships to further their passion. Blue Bear’s outreach programs are indeed transforming lives! To set up programming at a location near you, don’t hesitate to contact me at cole@bluebearmusic.org. MUSIC SAVES!
Cole Odin Berggren Community Programs Director
In addition to our Digital Audio programs we also offer Instrument Petting Zoo, Rock Band, Voice, and Guitar classes. 44 Summer 2016 415.673.3600
Digital Audio Program Our dedicated Studio 101 Program at Bayview Hunters Point YMCA empowers at-risk youth to write, produce, and record their own original music in a professional studio with state-of-the-art equipment and software such as GarageBand, Ableton, Logic and Pro Tools. Students can gain pre-professional skills in the fields of digital audio and video production and engineering.
Other Digital Audio Classes Studio 101 This beginning digital audio production course teaches students to create their own original songs using GarageBand. They work with a professional Blue Bear instructor to write, arrange, and record instrumental and vocal tracks for their own compositions, or use
GarageBand “clips” or samples to create their own remixes (a simpler version of this course is available for younger students). At the end of the class, the students receive a CD of their original songs.
Studio 201 This course furthers the instruction of Studio 101 and offers a glimpse into other more advanced programs such as Ableton, Logic, and Pro Tools. It’s designed to begin the transition into a more professional use of digital audio. Collaborative partnerships with onsite visual arts classes are also a possibility.
Hey DJ! Our teachers cover the history, technique, and equipment used to DJ, using media of all types from classic vinyl to CDs, and newer methods including “laptop DJing” using Serato and Ableton Live. Students learn about various styles and genres of DJing from hip hop to techno, with potential performance opportunities at completion of the course.
COMMUNITY bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 45
COMMUNITY 46 Summer 2016 415.673.3600
COMMUNITY bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 47
Support There are many ways to support Blue Bear and you can designate your gift to specifically benefit one or more of our programs.
GIVING
Why Give? Just imagine a world without music... A donation to Blue Bear is an investment in a vibrant, effective nonprofit organization that improves lives, one note at a time. With the disappearance of music programs in schools, Blue Bear is an increasingly important community resource. Making music helps make the world go ‘round and here are some reasons why our work is important: • Music is a deeply meaningful and core mode of human expression, for all ages.
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• Music can serve as a gratifying counter balance to demanding professional lives. • Making music together gives people a positive social experience. •L earning music enhances brainpower and improves academic performance. • Making music has proven health benefits. • Music gives young people a way to express themselves and even to find themselves.
What Your Gift Supports • 21 off-site Youth Outreach Programs in public schools and community centers.
Blue Bear has helped over 35,000 students discover their musical talents, cultivating skills for a lifetime of learning and enrichment. Your charitable support for our nonprofit work is crucial – without it, we cannot continue to offer affordable (and free) music education.
• Blue Bear’s Music Production Workshop for kids at The Mix at the San Francisco Public Library. • Multiple Youth All Star Bands for talented teens. • Sliding scale tuition assistance and scholarships, ensuring access to Blue Bear programs for all.
Feed The Bear
How To Contribute • Make a one-time, monthly or quarterly donation on our website. • Send a check by mail. • Donate musical instruments or equipment in good working condition. • Include Blue Bear as part of your planned giving. • Set up a matching grant through your employer to make your gift go even further Blue Bear is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Please contact our Manager of Individual Giving, Alycia Moore, at alycia@bluebearmusic.org or 415.673.3600. bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 49
GIVING
Playing music changes lives, and you can make a difference by helping us provide both free and very affordable music education—at a time when music programs have been slashed throughout the public school system. Contributions to our 2015-16 “Feed the Bear” campaign make Blue Bear’s day-to-day operations possible.
Please donate online any time at bluebearmusic.org/donate—it’s easy thanks to our partnership with Network for Good.
Gifts, Grants & Scholarships Blue Bear thanks the many individuals and organizations providing contributions received between April 1, 2015 and March 31, 2016. Our educational work could not continue without your support.
Scholarship Donors Scholarship Sponsors Anonymous Mike Kappus - The Rosebud Agency Henry E. Martens in memory of Harold Baxter Reade Bonnie Raitt
Ted O’Connell Memorial Scholarship Fund Anonymous
GIVING
WSydney Rowan - In Honor of my brother Ted O’Connell
Keith Allen Memorial Scholarship Fund Patricia & Thomas Allen Charles Felsenthal
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Bill Graham Memorial Scholarship Fund Bill Graham Supporting Foundation of the Jewish Community Federation & Endowment Fund The Walther Foundation
Steve Strauss Founders Fund Joan Barnes Richard Strauss
Blue Bear Donors Super Heroes ($50,000+)
Benefactors ($2,500-$4,999)
Anonymous Maria Cardamone & Paul Matthews Chauncey & Marion D. McCormick Family Foundation
Graham Green Brett May The pH Fund Jeffrey Shaw - To Jim Peterson for all his hard work and dedication
Heroes ($10,000+) Anonymous The Bothin Foundation Walter & Elise Haas Fund The Libra Foundation
Super Benefactors ($5,000-9,999) Anonymous Robert Emery Ira & Leonore Gershwin Philanthropic Fund John Brockway Huntington Foundation Elisabeth & Howard Jaffe The Walther Foundation
Super Sponsors ($1,000-$2,499) Block Communications, Inc. Mark Brueckman Friends - In Memory of Eric Schultz Paul Goldman & Monterey International The Grey Family Foundation Mr. Christopher Lord & Ms. Coltrane C. Lord Byron Mellberg The Arch & Stella Rowan Foundation Friends - in memory of Eric Schultz Ned and Robin Selfe SFT Endowment for Technology, Education and the Arts Kathy Taylor Strachan Jill Suttie & Don Arbitlit Union Bank Paul Winston
Corporate Gifts & Employer Matching Grants
GIVING bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 51
Gifts Grants & Scholarships
GIVING
In-Kind Donors Anonymous (3) Kirstin Ault Bob Brown Constance Cartwright Ariel Castro Andy Coblentz Christopher Day Brooks Frank Susan & Gregg Lustig Pat & Lori Martinez Paul Saraceni Steve Savage & Tamara Bock Richard Strauss Tamyra Thomas Mark Williams Brian Gingerich Waleed Haddad Jeff Harter 52 Summer 2016 415.673.3600
Estate of David G. Helder Bethany Hellerich William Ho Ronald Light Alexa Madrid Jay Margolis Perry McDougall Cristophe Moskalonek Xuemei Ouyang Michael Rao Renee Richardson Hamilton Rowan III Julia Segrove James Seivert Tony and Marcie Stais Adel Taslimi Joe Torrano
“We lo forward ok to many more ye ars Blue Be at ar.” – Uma & George Lerner
In-Kind Corporate Donors
Latham & Watkins LLP Latitude 38 Entertainment LiveNation Luxe Neiman Marcus New Delhi Restaurant Novation Margaret O’Leary Outerlands Phoenix Hotel The Progress Prospect Rocker Oysterfeller’s Kitchen + Saloon Slims State Bird Provisions Sweetwater Music Hall Orin Swift Urban Putt Voodoo Catbox bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 53
GIVING
Absinthe Group Adventure Cat AEG Management Oakland, LLC Another Planet Entertainment Bare Escentuals Bay Aquarium Bay Area Producers Conference (BAPC) Cadence Cavalier CavalloPoint Chaya Dress Fender Musical Instruments Corporation Focusrite Galileo Learning Center Geras Tousignant Gallery Glama-Rama Hair Salon Jonathan Rachman Design Joshua Ets-Hokin Photography Kyser Musical Products, Inc.
Sponsors ($500-$999) Anonymous Mike and Pat Evans Mark Mayper Julie and Jonathan Meyer Josina Reddy Renee Richardson Jay Shah, CPA Pauline Ayako Uyeda
Donors ($250-$499)
Holland Bender Mark Gunther and Anne M. Krantz Dominic Haigh Adrienne Hirt and Jeff Rodman Jocelyn Kane & Kevin B. Casey Michael Keys Susan and Gregg Lustig Pat and Lori Martinez Stephen N. Rosenfield Paul Saraceni Steve Savage and Tamara Bock Richard Strauss Tamyra Thomas Mark Williams
GIVING
Supporters ($100-$249)
Kit Anderton Susan Gracie Atherton Keysha Bailey Warren Bellows & Will Kent Wendy Bolker Jeffrey Briss Thomas E. Churchill II John Close Genevieve Conaty David Covell and Susie McMullan Joycelin Craig & Conrad Lopez Susan and Ed Croft Gerry Ehrmann Catherine Federico in support of the work of Maria Cardamone Elizabeth Finlayson & Jim Nadel Anne and Mason Flemming Dustin Frazier Michael Gallagher Ermanno Gallegioni, Jr. Theresa Garcia Brian Gifford Kevin Gill Patricia Hammond Bonnie Hayes Brenda Hillman Judith Hill-Weld Robert S. Hodas Henry Hooker and Janine Roeth Sue Hubbard Amy Johnson Dan Kane & Katherine Emery
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Stephen Kaus Ruth Kirschner Elisabeth Lewis Boris Lieberman Gail J. and Robert B. Loveman Fund Tim Lynch The Mahon Family Susan McGarry Hilda Mendez & Bruce Ackley David G. and Sheree L. Meyer Lisa Nelson Rachel Packer Janis Reed Dianne Younger Rosse Matt Rozen Leigh Sealy Dimitri Serafimides The Singer’s Workshop Richard Sloan Miles V. Smith Charitable Fund Katherine and Andrew Stephens Jim Tepperman Bill Tiedeman, L.C.S.W. Ashley Valentine Hailey White Dr. Richard Wolitz Melvin Wong, Blackbird Music Albert Yee Matthew Zlatunich In honor of Max Zwerin
Associates ($60-$99) Ian and Joanie Crombie Josh Norek
Friends ($1-$59)
Adrienne Justin Bass and Marisa Rolland Michael Drew in honor of Johnny Nitro David and Debra Hoiem Tim Hughes Leslie Ann Jones Michael Juster The Koenig Family David Lehr The LeMaitre Cunningham Family Peter Logan Julian Lopez Donald M. Maus Linda Muller Bernice Musante Jim Peterson David Sampson Jim Semitekol In Honor of Richard Smith Carol Snow and David Matchett Queenie Taylor
Board of Trustees Maria Cardamone
Richard Harpham Bonnie Hayes Rose Kirkland Tom O’Connell Jim Peterson Richard Strauss Ariel Sutro Paul Winston
Chair
Steve Savage President
Jay R. Shah, CPA Vice Chair
Brett May Treasurer
Program & Administrative Staff Steve Savage Executive Director
Dennis Criteser
Renee Richardson
General Manager/Program Director
Development Director
Cole Odin Berggren
Alycia Moore
Community Programs Director
Manager of Individual Giving
Tanya Yule
Sandy Lange
Little Bears Director
Finance Director
Shomari Bird-Whitten
Kristina Melendez
Marketing & PR Director
Office Manager
Genesis Valentine
Allison Genesis
Marketing Assistant
Accounts Manager
Tennessee Mowry
Ashley McKnight
Production Assistant
Front Desk Staff bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 55
Teachers
Blue Bear’s instructors are experienced mentors committed to helping you reach your musical goals. They are passionate about sharing the knowledge they’ve gained both from traditional training and from performing, on the stage and in the studio. With impressive biographies, Blue Bear teachers have played and recorded with a long list of “who’s who” in the popular music world. Summer camp instructor Cole Odin Berggren has drummed in bands for 20 years and is also a trained glassblower and prominent local DJ. Currently, he is the primary songwriter and singer/multi-instrumentalist for his own pulsing, psychedelic, electronic rock band OWNERSHIP. Cole also teaches at Blue Bear’s Bayview YMCA Digital Music Program and is Blue Bear’s Community Programs Director. Kent Brown was a professional actor, singer, and guitarist in Atlanta and the Southeast for 11 years before moving to San Francisco. An instructor at Blue Bear since 2000, Kent teaches group lessons in all levels of acoustic guitar as well as private lessons in acoustic and electric guitar and bass. His cover band Suite Love Express plays regularly throughout the Bay Area. 56 Summer 2016 415.673.3600
Peter Case is a three-time Grammy-nominated, performing singer/songwriter, guitarist and producer who brings over 25 years of songwriting experience to his popular workshops. A founding member of the Nerves and the Plimsouls, Case’s songs are consistently discovered by each new generation, covered and performed by his fellow songwriters (Chris Smither, John Prine, and Alejandro Escovedo, among others), and featured on film and television, most recently in True Blood and Friday Night Lights. T.Lin Chase is a working musician who also has a Ph.D. in computer science. She loves helping young people develop a love of learning and achievement in both the arts and the sciences.
Lea Centauri has been singing since age four and is the author of two vocal programs. She lived in Paris for several years, performing and teaching throughout Europe. She is a vocal coach for all genres — jazz, pop, blues, R&B, rock, show tunes, hip hop and rap — working with individuals and groups on technique and preparation for recording and performance. Lea is also a songwriter and teaches beginning piano.
Caroline Dahl plays boogie-woogie, blues and rock piano and is frequently seen wearing sequins. Caroline currently plays with the Cajun/ American roots band Tom Rigney and Flambeau, and also plays solo piano regularly on Sundays at Mama’s Royal Cafe in Mill Valley. She has played solo at piano boogie woogie and blues festivals in France, Switzerland, Norway, Belgium, Denmark, Canada, and at numerous venues in the United States.
Kai Chu began his music education on piano, then graduated from Berklee College of Music studying guitar, voice, and music business. Now a bassist, Kai has performed for large audiences at renowned venues like Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado, the LA Forum, The Warfield, and Bill Graham Civic Auditorium. Kai gigs regularly on the local scene and also plays double bass in the San Francisco Civic Symphony.
Sharman Duran, vocalist and keyboardist, has been performing jazz standards, top 40, soul, rock, pop, and Latin jazz in bands since 1976. She also specializes in teaching music to pre-school children. She has performed throughout Europe and Asia, and gigs regularly in the Bay Area.
Summer Camp teacher and guitarist Nils Erickson graduated with honors from Berklee College of Music and has played and taught music Our offsite program and Litin the Bay Area for over twentle Bears instructor Michael ty years. Nils has been lead Chulada has played synths and teacher in Blue Bear’s camps for piano in many bands over the last 25 over ten years, and has performed in Peter Case years and has performed in almost every venues like LA’s Disney Hall, The House of venue in San Francisco. He has released numer- Blues, The Brooklyn Bowl, The Knitting Factory, ous studio recordings, most recently with san and Bimbo’s 365 Club among many others. He franpsyche rock band The Rabbles. When not currently plays with the Michael Jackson tribtearing it up with The Rabbles, he's busy working ute group Foreverland. on his solo synthesizer-based project The Pre's, Brian Gire has been teaching and playing mupaying homage to the ambient ‘80s. One of Misic for over thirty years. Initially inspired by chael's greatest joys is sharing his love and wonwatching the late John Hartford on television, der of music and sparking that love with others. Brian has developed an eclectic approach that With a music degree from Ithaca College, ranges from Bartok to hard rock to Doc WatRandy Clark has been teaching guitar and son. He teaches both acoustic and electric amazing audiences with his critically acclaimed guitar (in styles including jazz, blues, classical, playing since the early 1990s. His band, Crow- rock, bluegrass, and more), banjo, mandolin, song, has released three records. Randy has piano, and bass. also composed for films and written for Guitar Player magazine. He specializes in slide guitar and roots music genres.
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Teachers
Rachel Hoiem has studied music for over twenty years, including several years on scholarship at Blue Bear. With a B.A. in Jazz Piano from SF State, she gigs regularly in her bands Light Fantastic, Bellavista, and Rachel and the Rats. Her Little Bears song repertoire includes everything from The Beatles to Beastie Boys, along with her own originals, keeping things fresh and fun for all. Raz Kennedy has worked as a vocalist, vocal coach, and producer in the Bay Area since 1980. His performance credits include six years as a founding member of Bobby McFerrin’s Voicestra, as well as projects with June Watanabe Performance Ensemble, Rebeca Mauleon, Bob Ostertag, Bonnie Hayes, Linda Tillery, George Coates Performance Works, and Oberlin Dance Collective. He has a long list of recording and live credits (Narada Michael Walden, Todd Rundgren, Whitney Houston, etc.) and has coached artists ranging from Adam Duritz (Counting Crows) to Rancid, among many others. Raz is an authorized CVT (Complete Vocal Technique) instructor, having studied for nearly four years in Copenhagen under the direction of the creator and founder of CVT, Cathrine Sadolin. Raz is available for limited private instruction on Tuesdays; call for rates and availability. Devin Lane has taught guitar privately and in schools and summer camps since 2007. He has
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also taught bass, drums, piano, voice, and recording techniques. With a B.A. from UC Santa Barbara, where he studied electronic music composition, music theory, piano, and English literature, Devin has performed in local bands and completed a musical journey of Latin America with performances in Mexico, Colombia, and Peru. Australian-born Libby Lavella is a Grammy-nominated singer and vocal coach. She has taught both signed artists and non-singers, including non-singing actor Mark Webber who she prepared for his lead-singing role and soundtrack work on the 2010 film Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. Libby has worked with Courtney Love, Smash Mouth, Jamie Lynn Spears, Wendy Melvoin, Latin Pop artist Gustavo Galindo, and many others. She recently released an EP with her LA-based harmony group, The Amber. Libby is available for limited Artist Vocal Development private lessons; call for rates and times. Berklee School of Music grad Sean Leahy has toured the States and Europe with Kofy Brown, Red Archibald, Marginal Prophets, Boomshanka, Four Year Bender, Guitarmageddon, and London Street. An experienced guitar teacher and band workshop leader, his first influences include Hendrix, Duane Allman, and Angus Young. Sean gigs regularly throughout the Bay Area and beyond.
Melissa Leigh is a Sonoma State University grad with a double major in jazz studies and composition. She is the go-to bass player for many pit orchestras and has played in multiple musicals such as Hair, Tommy, Patsy Cline, and The Rocky Horror Show. She has performed with numerous jazz ensembles around California, running her own jazz trio that plays throughout the Bay and the wine country. She is a member of The Dollhouses, world touring band Vortex Tribe, and all female psychedelic pop band Snow Angel with whom she’s recorded a full album and toured across California. She is currently teaching many students of different levels and ages on electric and upright bass, piano, and ukulele..
Shaun McGonegal is a seasoned drummer with over thirty years of experience in performance and studio work. Along with contributions to many albums, he is a GrooveZoo.com Groove Crew Member, actively consulting for the site. His formal training began at Ontario College of Percussion and continued with Pete Magadini, John Pickering, and jazz great Tony Williams. Shaun has mastered styles from rock, R&B, blues and funk, to Latin, jazz, and hip hop. Little Bears instructor Ayesha McGowan hails from the East Coast but now calls the Bay Area her new home. She incorporates a range of folk, pop, soul, and kiddie classics in her classes and has lots of experience working with infants as young as two weeks old! Ayesha plays violin, piano, guitar, and ukulele.
J.T. Locke has been playing guitar, and writing and arranging songs for over 20 years, reJoe Morgan studied voice from cording and performing across 1977-1985 at Northern Illinois the country for over 10 years, and Ja University and at DePaul University. nak an teaching professionally since 2007. Ramachandr With experience ranging from traditionJ.T. trained at PCC Music program in Portal and contemporary choral ensembles to singer/ land and M.I.T in Los Angeles. He offers instruction songwriter material, Joe has worked with a wide in rock, jazz, classical, blues, metal, pop, and other range of vocalists to help them achieve both vocal styles as well as in songwriting , and is the lead inhealth and emotional connection in their singing. structor for the All Star Band program. His current band is Deathtrap America. Tennessee Mowrey is a multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter who has written for folk, rock, Mindy Knight has been singing since she reggae, and punk bands as well as for film and could speak, and from the age of eight she theater. Proficient in guitar, bass, drum kit, hand sang in choirs and ensembles of nearly every percussion, mandolin, and ukulele, he has released style. She studied music education, piano and multiple self-produced solo albums as well as alanthropology in addition to receiving her BA bums with his various bands including Borneo and in voice from the University of North Texas. Electric Tiger Lily. Tennessee graduated from WesHer voice and love of music have taken her to leyan University with High Honors in Music in 2014. various regions of the world, having performed in Colorado (USA), Brasil, Hungary, Ghana, and throughout Texas. Her favorite styles to sing include Folk music, Jazz, Soul/Motown, and Musical Theater! Mindy is currently half of a two-piece group called Vista, who play around San Francisco.
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Teachers
Vocalist, musician, songwriter and entertainer Lauren Ona is driven by the act of inspiring and being inspired by others. Her teachings consist of helping her students to understand the physiology of the voice itself and to find and learn about their own voice on a deeper, more personal and transformational level. She performs regularly with various corporate bands, and also appeared on ABC’s first season of the TV show “Rising Star.” Pamela Parker is a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist schooled in classical, jazz, blues, classic rock, recording, songwriting, producing and performing. She holds two degrees in music, has started two music schools, works at Hyde Street Studios in San Francisco, and has been practicing music since the age of 7, including piano, violin, drums, bass, guitar, singing, songwriting, and recording. Jim Peterson has played and taught saxophone and woodwinds for more than 25 years. He studied in his early days at Blue Bear and then at Berklee School of Music. Jim has played with Beaufunk, Mitch Woods, Steve Lucky, and President’s Breakfast and is a founding member/composer for MoFone, Giant Trio, Mumbo Gumbo, and The New Squatoolas. He has performed at jazz festivals in Canada and Europe
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and at the Monterey Jazz and Blues Festivals. Seminar instructor Ilya Portnov is an innovative harmonica player who transforms its rustic simplicity into a sophisticated, expressive sound capable of conveying the most challenging music. He is equally comfortable swinging a Brazilian choro, navigating a sinewy Balkan dance, or celebrating harmonica’s roots in the blues. Ilya completed an M.A. at the prestigious New England Conservatory, the only person playing diatonic harmonica to have ever done so. Janak Ramachandran is driven to inspire, connect, and enlighten via his teaching philosophy of “motivating encouragement, concrete guidance, and playful musicality.” Once a student at Blue Bear, he is now one of a handful of teachers to receive Blue Bear’s Outstanding Faculty Award for his work in teaching voice/vocal style, guitar, bass, piano, theory/songwriting and stage performance. Mike Rao, a graduate of G.I.T. in Los Angeles, studied solo jazz guitar with Ted Green. He loves blues and classic rock and has fifteen years of teaching experience. Mike is well known for his systematic and comprehensive approach to building skills in his group classes. He also leads youth bands and guitar classes in Blue Bear’s offsite programs.
Summer camp instructor Erik Schramm is a Bay Area guitarist who for the last several years has toured the U.S. with the band Super Diamond. He performs often in San Francisco with artists Brandi Shearer, Clay Bell, Matt Verba, and Strip Club. He also does sessions for songwriters, commercials, and independent films. His playing is a mix of pop, blues, funk, rock, and a taste of country for good measure. Mark Schuh has toured the country as guitarist, bassist, keyboardist, and singer in numerous projects and can often be found singing and playing solo guitar at SF’s Durty Nelly’s where he’s been a resident musician for the last ten years. He studied music with the infamous Joan Wildman at UW-Madison and at Blue Bear with jazz guru Jeff Massanari. Mark is currently lead guitarist for SF’s New Orleans-inspired Fatcat.
Summer camp instructor Bob Tatum, a graduate of Percussion Institute of Technology in L.A., has been teaching drums and performing in the Bay Area since 1999. In addition to being the house drummer for the Blue Lamp in San Francisco, Bob has played with bands and artists such as Jimmy Two Times, Noelle Hampton, Storm Large, Bonnie Hayes, and Heather Combs. With an early background in trumpet, piano, and voice in concert bands, marching bands, community symphony orchestras, and barbershop quartets, John Turner eventually settled on the keys, touring with national recording groups and working as a session player. He has also accompanied cabaret acts and played for top 40 and show bands, upscale restaurants, five-star hotels, corporate events, and private parties.
Amanda VanderMeer graduated with high honors from Girls Rock! camp teachPortland Community Coler Karen Segal has been lege’s professional music teaching bands in the Bay program and has been playing Area since 2000 and rocking and writing music for 25 years, out since she was 11. She’s pertouring the globe and releasing formed at the Hard Rock Cafe, Bottwo studio albums. Since 2006, she Mark Schuh tom of the Hill, Yoshi’s SF, Savanna Jazz, has taught a wide range of ages in drums, Rassela’s, and Cafe Du Nord. Karen teaches piano, vocals, music theory, and songwriting. band at SF’s Brandeis Hillel Day School, and has She plays drums in her current band Deathtrap a diploma from the Musicians Institute in L.A., America. a Master’s of Education from UCLA, and a CaliBrandy Washington is a self-taught singer, fornia State Teaching Certificate. songwriter, keyboardist, rapper, drummer, and Summer camp teacher Erin Tadena is a lifelong producer who writes and performs under the musician who works at Laughing Tiger Record- moniker BEDAZAE. Her songs and instrumentals ing as an engineer, technician and assistant stu- have been used for various underground projdio and social media manager. Prior to Laugh- ects. Brandy is a co-teacher for the Blue Bear ing Tiger, Erin logged ten years of live sound Digital Audio Production program at the Bayexperience. He received an Associates Degree view YMCA. for Recording Arts from Los Medanos College. Mid-way through his degree, he was hired by the college to work as an engineer and technician in the recording arts department and continues there as part of the staff, instructing and tutoring students. bluebearmusic.org Summer 2016 61
General Information Enroll Online: Go to bluebearmusic.org/enroll
to get started today! Office Hours
Contact Info
Monday to Thursday: 1-8pm Saturday: 10:30 am-3:30pm Friday & Sunday: closed
Phone: 415.673.3600 Email: info@bluebearmusic.org
Address
Pri vate lesson changes are handled by phone—be sure to leave a message—or by email at: cancel@bluebearmusic.org
Blue Bear School of Music Fort Mason Center 2 Marina Blvd. Bldg. D San Francisco, CA 94123
Sliding scale tuition available: Income-based sliding scale tuition is available for all Blue Bear instruction and summer camps with potential savings of 20% to 30% or more. Please visit bluebearmusic.org/sliding-scale to see whether you qualify! Please note: Blue Bear School of Music does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, age, political affiliation, disability, gender, sexual orientation, or religious belief in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship programs, and other school administered programs or in affording students the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
Weekday Rates
Weekend Rates
0-1 hr
$2.00
0-1 hr
$2.00
1-2 hrs
$4.00
1-2 hrs
$5.00
2-3 hrs
$6.00
2-3 hrs
$7.00
3-4 hrs
$8.00
3-4 hrs
$10.00
>4 hrs
$10.00
>4 hrs
$12.00
Parking At Fort Mason Funds generated from parking in the paid lot are allocated for the preservation and restoration of Fort Mason Center, a National Historic Landmark. Vehicles can enter the lot at any time, however overnight parking is not permitted. Sometimes spots are available just outside the Fort Mason gate, next to where the boats are moored, and that parking is free.
Outdoor bike racks are located throughout Fort Mason Center. At this time there are no indoor racks. 62 Summer 2016 415.673.3600
Locations
Fort Mason Center
2 Marina Blvd., Bldg. D Blue Bear is on the 2nd floor of Building D. Most of Blue Bear’s classes and private lessons for all ages take place at this location.
Lennon Studios
271 Dore St. @ Harrison St. & 9th St. Band workshops, group guitar classes and limited guitar, voice and sax lessons take place at this SOMA location.
Noe Valley Ministry
1021 Sanchez St. at 23 St. Little Bears classes and adult group voice and guitar classes take place at this location (no private lessons).
Center For New Music
55 Taylor St. near 6th and Market Group voice classes take place at this Mid-Market location.
Sweetwater Music Hall
19 Corte Madera, Mill Valley Little Bears classes take place at this Mill Valley location.
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Goings On… Blue Bear receives funding from the Bill Graham Supporting Foundation of the Jewish Community Federation & Endowment Fund and from The Walther Foundation to award two significant scholarships each year to young students who are serious about their music studies. We are pleased to announce this year’s recipients: Charlotte Schwartz and Zach Lee. Charlotte, who will be a sophomore at Lowell in the fall, will pursue piano and songwriting studies at the Bear. Zach, who will enter 7th grade at Miller Creek Middle School in San Rafael in the fall, will take songwriting camps this summer and will return to Blue Bear’s All Star Band next school year. Congrats to both! Program Director Dennis Criteser will perform songs by Italian singer/songwriters at this year’s Italian street painting festival, Ciao Bella Roma, in San Rafael, on June 26. Tennessee Mowrey released a 5-song EP in May. It’s worth a listen! Check out ”Bluestone” by Tennessee John on bandcamp.
By the time you read this, Blue Bear’s Executive Director Steve Savage will have returned from two weeks of teaching at the University of Athens in Greece. Steve received a Fulbright Scholar grant to teach in the Music Department at UofA. He was also asked to give a talk at Aristotle University in Thessaloniki, Greece. Steve holds a doctorate in cultural musicology from the University of London and has recorded and/or mixed 6 CDs that have received Grammy nominations. Lea Centauri, who teaches voice and beginning piano at the Bear, is also a writer and has published her first novel, ”RELMS: Tales of Vishnu and The Dreygon,” available at Amazon. The first book of a trilogy, the Relms are frightening tales of infinite possibility and a Human on a journey of space and star dust. An exciting and deep read! With longtime keys and All Star Band instructor Ryan Hickey’s departure to Shanghai for a year, J.T. Locke will take over the lead teacher role for the All Star Bands next fall, overseeing the program, joined by Amanda VanderMeer and Tennessee Mowrey as co-teachers. And Michael Chulada, who is active in our Little Bears and offsite programs, has been tapped to help J.T. with admin support.
• Sliding scale tuition available
• Band Workshops
Toddlers
• Little Bears for
• Kids & Teens Summer Camps
SAN FRANCISCO, CA PERMIT NO. 10148
PAID
NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE
IT’S TIME TO PLAY!
Marina SOMA Noe Valley
bluebearmusic.org 415.673.3600
Mid-Market Mill Valley
Five convenient locations!
NEW TO BLUE BEAR? MENTION THIS CATALOG TO RECEIVE $20 OFF
Fort Mason Center 2 Marina Blvd. Bldg. D San Francisco, CA 94123
• Classes Start July 5-15
• Private Lessons
• Instrument & Voice Classes
Summer Quarter 2016
Blue Bear’s Got It!