The Senior Academy of The Phil and Eli Taylor Performance Academy for Young Artists currently accepts students ages 14 to 18 in the disciplines of strings, piano, and voice. Students typically graduate at the end of high school. However, Taylor Academy members who wish to take an extra year between their secondary and postsecondary educations to focus on music studies are encouraged to do so, and may request permission to complete an extra year in The Taylor Academy. Activities typically take place on Friday evenings and Saturdays.
Core Curriculum
Private Lessons
When: Various (arranged at the convenience of the teacher and student)
Students receive 30 hours of private lessons with a Taylor Academy faculty member during the Academic year. Students are assigned to a teacher's studio upon entry to The Taylor Academy, through consultation with the director and program coordinator.
Performance Class
When: Various Fridays throughout the academic year
Master classes with highly esteemed visiting guest artists provide valuable performance experience and mentorship opportunities for student performers and their peers. All Senior Academy students have several opportunities to perform in master classes throughout the academic year. Senior Academy voice performance classes also include sessions on acting, movement, language study, and other elements vital to the discipline.
Ensemble Class
When: Various (Friday or Saturday, determined by student/coach availability)
All Senior Academy instrumentalists participate in chamber duos or ensembles, which are arranged by the director and program coordinators. Senior vocalists participate in a weekly Friday small ensemble class.
Academy Chamber Orchestra
When: Saturday
Senior Academy Strings students rehearse weekly as an orchestra and perform two annual concerts. Sectional rehearsals throughout the year provide extra rehearsal opportunities.
Piano Duos
When: Friday
Senior Academy Piano students perform and discuss piano duo and duet literature in a master class-style setting.
Academic Courses
When: Saturday
All Senior Academy students take musicianship, theory, and history/music appreciation classes. Some courses are eligible for Royal Conservatory Examinations credit.
Performances
When: Various
Taylor Academy students participate in a wide variety of concerts and other performance opportunities throughout the year, and are also expected to also attend concerts as audience members to support their peers.
