FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. COC-07-023-SC
September 12, 2006
Aspiring Musicians Wanted at Community Extension Playing an instrument is both a source of enjoyment and relaxation for the musician and his or her audience. This fall, the Community Extension Program at College of the Canyons will offer a wide range of fee-based classes taught by proficient musicians. "If you have always wanted to learn how to play the harp, the harmonica or the ukulele, the timing has never been better, especially with instruction by noted musicians such as Stephanie Bennett," said Karen Gorback, associate dean for community and noncredit education. Harpist Stephanie Bennett, who has performed with artists such as Celine Dion, Aerosmith and Bette Midler, will teach "Introduction to Celtic Harp." Bennett has performed for heads of state around the world and has won numerous international harp competitions. Called "one of the country's top harpists" by the Hollywood Reporter, Bennett will teach this beginning class on six Sundays from 1:30 to 3p.m, starting October 1. Students are encouraged to bring their own harp to class or contact the Community Extension office for rental information. Irvin Caesar will present "Nat 'King' Cole, Timeless" an evening course from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on October 20. Attendees will have the opportunity to discuss Cole's music and its impact on the world, and listen to Caesar perform some of Cole's most memorable work. Caesar, a professional vocalist who has toured with Julio Iglesias and Herbie Hancock, is currently recording some of Cole's greatest hits with Peter White. Professional drummer Chris Armstrong will teach "Community Drumming" on six Wednesdays from 7:30 to 9 p.m. beginning October 11. This introductory hand-drumming course will teach basic drum patterns, how to play with a group, the rudiments of improvisation and the drumming practices of other cultures. The class is for all skill levels and requires that students bring their own drums. Armstrong is a professional percussionist and composer specializing in percussion from Africa and India, with an extensive background in ethnomusicology. Other music classes this fall include "Beginning Blues Harmonica," "You Can Sell Hit Songs," "Beginning Ukulele," and "Piano Your Teachers Never Taught You." For more information about classes, fees and registration, call Community Extension at (661) 362-3304. | 
