HCA's Dance program offers classes from ages 2-92, in styles ranging from Ballet to Modern to Hip Hop and Musical Theatre.  Take classes recreationally, or train seriously, at HCA it's up to you.
 

HCA Music students can study a wide variety of instruments through either private lessons or group classes.  There's something for every taste and skill level.
 

 HCA's Theatre department explores all areas of the theatrical experience - improvisation, script building, character work, design and directing.  Classes available for all age groups.

 

 

 


This is a great opportunity to sample and experience a little bit of Broadway. 

 
 

 


The HCA Visual Arts program introduces young children to the arts, encourages budding artists and helps them develop their portfolios, and allows recreational artists a chance to experience their dream. 

 

 

 

Providing access to arts programming
for Hamilton youth and children.

 


 
 

 

 


 Fun, educational, arts-based field trips which match the Ontario curriculum for the arts. 

 
 

 

 

 

 
 

The artistic vision of the HCA Dance Theatre is to augment the artistic and cultural landscape of Hamilton and Golden Horseshoe region, complementing the reputable Opera, Orchestra, Theatre and Art Gallery in Hamilton with a professional dance company. 

HCA Features

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NO BOUNDS Special Needs Music Program PDF Print E-mail

noboundsA music program that provides individual and group instruction for special needs children who require an approach outside of the traditional

• Individual Programs
• Group Programs
• About the Instructor

Individual Programs

The music instructor will meet with the child and parent/caregiver to discuss expectations for the music lessons.  Based on this meeting, a program will be tailored which may involve one or several of the following;

• reading notes
• playing piano from notation
• improvising on piano
• improvising with percussion instruments
• playing piano ‘by ear’
• experiencing dynamics and rhythm
• song writing/composing
• learning scales and technique
• preparing for RCM exam

No Bounds Groups

Open/Universal Music Groups

Groups will be formulated based on children’s musical learning desires and age appropriateness.  Musical activities will be implemented to introduce and encourage exploring elements of music.  Learning about music in a group forum provides the opportunity for children to understand the importance of listening to one another in creating music together.  For some groups, a parent/caregiver may be requested to attend the group along with the student.


About the Instructor


mf_rafRachael Finnerty is trained as both a music teacher and a music therapist. She completed a BA in Psychology from Dalhousie University (Halifax,NS) , MA Social Science (London, England), and a Masters Music Therapy (Cambridge, England). Rachael has over 10 years of experience teaching piano in different music schools and has been working as a music therapist in both the health care system (Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto) and private practise (Fermata Music Therapy) since 2001. Rachael’s private practise has provided invaluable experience providing music therapy to children with diverse special needs, inclusive of autism, genetic disorders, communication disorders, and behaviour issues. As director of Music Therapy for Jesses Foundation for Music and Dance Therapy since 2001, Rachael has been involved in fundraising, providing community awareness and supporting new music therapy programs throughout Ontario in following the charity’s mandate of making music therapy more accessible to families in need. Rachael uses her diverse skills as both a music therapist and music teacher to provide music instruction to the No Bounds Music Program. Rachael also provides piano instruction to all ages from beginner to grade 3 RCM level.


About the Instructor

Kmfaculty_karisten Anderson received an Honours BA in Music Education and Performance from McMaster University in 1994.  She has over 15 years experience teaching piano to students ranging in age from 4 years old to adult.  Kristen is currently pursuing a Master of Music Therapy from Wilfrid Laurier University.  She has experience working with children having special needs such as Autism, Down syndrome, Williams syndrome and other developmental and behavioural challenges in both an educational and therapeutic capacity.  Kristen completed an internship with seniors at a long-term care facility and is currently providing music therapy for adults at a rehabilitation facility for Acquired Brain Injury.  Kristen’s combined experience in both teaching and music therapy enable her to provide music instruction to students of the No Bounds program.