Upper School Intersession 2025

California's official state dance, West Coast Swing, is a fun social dance that emphasizes improvisation (check out examples of competitive WCS here, here, and here). Originally a form of Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing has evolved into a modern partner dance which can be danced to almost any kind of music and is also degendered (anyone can lead or follow). It's increasingly popular thanks to social media: Learn how to "speak" WCS, and you'll have a community of Westie friends on college campuses and in cities all around the world.
No dance experience necessary. Wear pants and comfortable sneakers/flat shoes.

Students will learn the fundamental chord shapes on the guitar, as well as basic strumming, scales, and rhythmic concepts. We will also cover how songs are created and analyzed through the lens of contemporary rock/pop music. No experience required.

In this workshop, we’ll break down some of our favorite songs to uncover what makes them truly work. What elevates a song from good to great? How can your musical taste shape your creative process? Using cutting-edge signal processing tools when needed, we’ll dive into the heart of the music, drawing on principles of auditory perception to reveal how physical sound transforms into an emotional experience. From detailed part-by-part analysis to whole-song critiques, this workshop will change the way you listen, and inspire how you create. "Song Decoder" is geared towards everyone, while Max’s other session, "Song Creator" is designed for musicians and songwriters. Led by songwriter/producer/keyboardist/educator Max Cowan.

Legendary Cuban musicians Axel Tosca and Jesus Diaz will be leading Nueva musicians in an intense rehearsal format teaching Afro-Cuban jazz styles both contemporary and traditional. With Axel on keyboards and Jesus on percussion you will learn to groove in new styles and have a great time working with two of the best around. You’ll learn the Mambo, Cha Cha, Songo and more.

This will run as a Tuesday-Wednesday session and again on Thursday-Friday. YOU CAN SIGN UP FOR ONE OR BOTH SESSIONS! Both groups will culminate with a lunchtime performance on Friday.

All instruments welcome!

George Harrison wrote, “Everyone should have and play a ‘UKE.’ It’s so simple to carry with you and it is one instrument you can’t play and not laugh!” He carried his uke with him and gave away ukes to friends whenever he could. “Everyone I know who is into the ukulele is ‘crackers,’ so get yourself a few and enjoy yourselves,” he said. Good advice from a Beatle. This course offers an introduction to playing the ukulele. Geared toward both complete neophytes and experienced beginners, the course will teach students the basics of uke chords and strumming. A dozen or so chords will be covered as well as a few strum patterns and basic fingerpicking. Basic chart reading and rhythm studies will also be discussed. No experience required.

This class teaches students the Arabic alphabet, daily expressions and basic grammar while employing Arabic music and video clips to expose students to the diverse culture(s) of the Arab world. No previous knowledge necessary.

In this workshop, we will focus on the art and science of songwriting. We’ll delve into the craft of creating melodies that resonate and lyrics that linger. We’ll explore various song structures and learn how to mold them to suit your artistic vision. You’ll learn techniques to enhance your lyrical depth, experiment with harmonic progressions, and effectively employ rhythm to enhance emotional impact. We'll also cover the essentials of demo production, giving you the tools to bring your songs to life. Whether you’re a budding songwriter or looking to refine your skills, "Song Creator" will equip you with the knowledge to express your unique musical identity. Led by songwriter/producer/keyboardist/educator Max Cowan, this workshop is an invaluable resource for anyone eager to take their songwriting to the next level.

Non-musicians are encouraged to enroll in Max’s other session, “Song Decoder.”