Mission Statement

…to provide a comprehensive music program in a positive and tension-free setting to all persons regardless of age or ability.

History

Crescendo Academy of Music evolved from a violin program that was part of Western Michigan University's Community Arts Program. When this program expanded to include violists and chamber music in 1987, the name was changed to Young Strings Academy. In 1988, Young Strings Academy became an incorporated non-profit organization and was thus eligible for grants and tax-deductible contributions. Karey Johnson held the position of Director until the summer of 1998 when Solen Dikener, Principal Cellist of the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra became the Artistic Director. In March of 2000, the Academy moved into its permanent home in the Epic Center in downtown Kalamazoo. At that time, Audrey Lipsey, Assistant Concertmaster of the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra became the Executive Director and the name was changed to Crescendo Academy of Music. The name Crescendo reflects the anticipated growth of the academy including lessons on all orchestral instruments, theory and composition classes, a wind ensemble and additional chamber music opportunities. Expansion of the original Epic Center facilities was completed in the fall of 2002 and now include nineteen teaching studios and two ensemble rooms.

Faculty and Lessons

Our faculty currently provides private lessons on violin, viola, cello, string bass, classical and electric guitar, piano, voice, flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, French horn, trumpet, trombone, and when requested, theory and composition. Lessons are offered for 30, 45, or 60 minute sessions once a week and are available year round. The schedule is determined by the individual instructor, parents and student and is usually related to age and/or playing level. Monetary assistance is available for qualifying students. Our faculty members are highly qualified on their respective instruments, performing with a wide variety of orchestral and chamber groups including Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, Battle Creek, Southwest Michigan, Lansing, Fort Wayne, and South Bend Symphony Orchestras. Most hold advanced degrees in music and have many years of teaching experience. Five are Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra Artists in Residence. Bringing highly skilled teachers to young students during their formative years continues to be a primary goal of the academy.

Performance Opportunities

All students are encouraged to perform at public recitals given approximately ten times per year. Crescendo Academy provides an on-site accompanist for the performing students. Chamber groups, when performance ready, are encouraged to perform at functions throughout the community. Our performance ensembles have provided music for the Epic Center, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, Relay for Life, Kalamazoo Public Schools, Kalamazoo County Family Fun Day, charity events and in many churches, assisted living and nursing homes in the area.