Art Classes
Recreational Art Classes for Children, Youth, and Adults
The Music & Arts School offers art instruction to children, youth and adults in a warm and welcoming environment.
Art classes allow every student a chance to be creative and develop their artistic talent. Unveil your talent and individuality through the visual arts.
Get $10 off Spring classes: Use code MASGROUP10 to get $10 off select Dance Classes.
Art Classes for Children (Ages 4 to 14)
Our art classes for children offer opportunities to enjoy artistic creation using a variety of mediums in a relaxed, encouraging environment. Registrants need to dress for mess!
Art Classes for Youth & Adults (Ages 15+)
Our art classes for youth & adults offer opportunities to enjoy artistic creation using a variety of mediums in a relaxed, encouraging environment. Emphasis on developing observation skills through drawing from life, studying great works of art and fostering the imagination.
Featured Classes
Jazz Dance Classes for Kids
Jazz classes are now offered on Sunday morning for kids ages 4 to 8.
Learn More
Beginner Ballet Classes for Adults and Youth
Beginner Ballet classes are now offered on Sunday afternoons for adults and youth.
Learn More
Student Portal
The Music & Arts School communicates information with students and families through University Settlement’s client portal. The portal allows parents and students to view activity schedules, register for other University Settlement programming and view all billing information!
Additional Info
2023/24 Calendar
Fall Term 2023
September 5
Fall Term begins
October 7 to 9
Thanksgiving Weekend CLOSED
December 11
Last Day of the Fall Term
Winter Term 2024
January 8
Winter Term begins
February 17 to 19
Family Day CLOSED
March 8
Last Day of the Winter Term
Spring Term 2024
March 18
Spring Term begins
March 29 to April 1
Easter Weekend CLOSED
May 18 to 20
Victoria Day CLOSED
June 17
Last Day of the Spring Term
Summer Term 2024
July 2
Summer Term begins
August 2
Last Day of the Summer Term
August 3 to 5
Simcoe Weekend CLOSED
Updated June 3, 2024
Agency Membership Fee
In addition to program fees, an annual Agency Membership ($25 plus HST per year) is required for all individuals participating in Music & Arts School programs at University Settlement.
School Faculty
Our exceptional faculty of professionally trained teachers and performers offer one of the best music education opportunities in Toronto. All have a bachelor’s degree in music and many have completed studies at the Master’s level. Each has a demonstrated commitment to the community.
Drums
Piano
Strings
- Alex Cheung (Violin)
- Felix Flores (Violin)
- Joel Tangjerd (Cello)
- Robert Carroll (Classical Guitar)
- Robert Maddocks (Ukulele)
- Yoona Kang (Violin)
Winds
- Katherine Anderson (Flute)
- Alberto Di Priolo (Saxophone)
Voice & Choir
- Luyao Xu (Voice)
- Sherry Squires (Choir)
Chamber Program
- Keith Reid (Chamber Coordinator)
- Alberto Di Priolo (Coach)
- Alex Cheung (Coach)
- Robert Carroll (Coach)
- Katherine Anderson (Coach)
- Laraine Herzog (Coach)
- Felix Flores (Coach)
- Joel Tangjerd (Coach)
- Leo Choi (Coach)
Dance
Art
TBC
Early Childhood Music
Theory & Ear Training
- Alberto Di Priolo (Ear Training)
- André McEvenue (Theory & Harmony)
Concerts
Regular performances by students, teachers and special guests form an integral part of life at our School. Students of all levels have the opportunity to perform in a non-competitive environment. Past student recitals can also be viewed on the Music & Arts School YouTube channel.
Subsidies
Fee subsidies can help students age 18 or younger from families not able to afford the full cost of private lessons. Eligibility is based on the total household income, and the number of people in the family. Check the 2023/24 Program Guide for more information.
FAQ
What is the cancellation policy?
Regardless of the notice given, should you cancel your private lesson, a make-up lesson will be arranged, maximum of one make-up lesson per term. Should your teacher cancel a lesson, it will be rescheduled. Please note: Missed group classes are not eligible for make-up lessons.
What do I do if I can’t attend a lesson?
Please email us or call the Music & Arts School Office at 416-598-3444 ext. 243 or 244 to let us know that you are unable to attend.
What technical equipment do I need for online lessons?
It’s pretty simple. You need a device with video capabilities – a smartphone, tablet or laptop and a strong internet connection.
Is the School accessible?
Yes! An elevator provides access to all rooms used for private lessons and group classes.
School Staff
Victoria Medeiros, Managing Director
Prior to becoming the Managing Director of the Music & Arts School in 2014, Victoria was a voice instructor in 2013. She received a Master of Music degree from the New England Conservatory of Music. Victoria has years of experience both as a performer and as a teacher.
Felix Flores, Program Assistant
Felix Flores is a violinist, composer and arranger who has experience performing in a wide variety of music genres including Classical, Jazz, Tango, Latin, and Contemporary music. A long-time teacher with experience in arts administration, he’s excited to take on this additional role at the Music & Arts School. View Felix’s artist bio
Lyf Stolte, Program Assistant
Lyf Stolte brings his passion for the arts to his role as Program Assistant. Having facilitated arts, storytelling and other workshops and events at his previous work, he is excited to bring these experiences with him to the University Settlement’s Music & Arts School. Lyf is married and has two sons, and two dogs!
Audrey’s Story —“…Not only has the school helped me by learning how to play piano and violin, but it has taught me how to be myself…”
Audrey Cai, a 14-year-old pianist and violinist, has spent over six years honing her musical talents at University Settlement’s Music & Arts School. Under the guidance of pianist Ken Marple and violinist Alex Cheung, Audrey has earned praise as an “exceptional student and gifted musician,” garnering awards and scholarships such as the Steinhauer Family Music Award and the Mark Hill Music Award.
Beyond the school’s walls, Audrey’s musical achievements shine brightly. She recently claimed first place at the North York Music Festival’s Grade 10 C category with Chopin’s Polonaise in C# minor and secured second place in the Grade 10 D category with Debussy’s Clair De Lune.
Ken Marple commends Audrey’s ability to captivate audiences, describing her as “simply an exceptional musician, performer, and student.” Audrey’s dedication led her to pass her RCM Level 9 Piano Exam with First Class Honours in 2024, and she’s now preparing for the RCM Level 10 Exam. As a member of the Music & Arts School’s Youth Chamber Ensemble, she continues to thrive under Alex Cheung’s mentorship.
Reflecting on her journey, Audrey credits the Music & Arts School for nurturing her passion and helping her fulfill her dreams through music. “Not only has the school helped me by learning how to play piano and violin, but it has taught me how to be myself, express my feelings through music, and finding a way to achieve my dreams.” – Audrey
Audrey’s story exemplifies the transformative impact of music education, showcasing excellence in both her musical achievements and personal growth.
Help Us Make A Difference
When you give to University Settlement, you make it possible for students, like Audrey, to pursue their artistic talents at the Music & Arts School.
Make a donation. Make a difference.