Finding Solutions: Augusta arts school offers summer music workshop for young students

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – An Augusta arts school is offering young musicians a chance to learn instruments through a summer workshop.

The Young Winds Workshop at MelodiousOne Educational Institute entered its second day this week. Students are learning to play instruments including the French horn.

“When you learn something new, you want to keep getting to it and keep doing it and it’s so much fun,” said Isla Asmann, a workshop participant.

Workshop structure

Day one focused on music theory, including lines and spaces and whole and half notes. Day two marked the first time students handled instruments.

“Today was their first time putting instrument in hand so they have the opportunity to assemble, dissemble, learn to play their first sound and first full note,” said Shea Burns, founder of MelodiousOne Educational Institute.

Asmann chose the French horn, citing its rarity and potential benefits.

“There’s only a few people that actually do it in the world so it makes good scholarships in college,” she said.

Quintan Willis, a student at MEI who returned as a helper this summer, plays clarinet and offered advice to participants.

“Starting out you will never be good at something, but if you try constantly you will actually succeed,” Willis said.

Burns said early music education affects brain development.

“The younger they are the more they can hold and as long as they can hold an instrument their brains will be way more available to them and accessible. A lot of open thought process comes through instrument playing,” Burns said.

Asmann said she sees a decline in musicians.

“There’s not as many musicians in the world as there use to be. Back then almost everyone played an instrument and since technology has been created it’s like they are listening on their phones and not playing as much,” she said.

The workshop was made possible through a grant. MelodiousOne Educational Institute completed its first year. A recital is scheduled for Friday at 1 p.m. at MEI’s location off Aumond Road. Fall semester registration is available.