359 So. Kalamazoo Mall, Ste. 12
Kalamazoo, MI, 49007
General
Crescendo Academy of Music evolved from a violin program that was part of Western Michigan University’s Community Arts Program. When funding for that program was eliminated in 1987, two of its instructors, Karey Wierich and Charlene Boehm, founded Young Strings Academy and expanded the programming to include violists and chamber music. In 1988 YSA became an incorporated non-profit organization, and in March of 2000, the academy moved into its permanent home in the Epic Center in downtown Kalamazoo. The name was changed to Crescendo Academy of Music, reflecting the growth of an academy that now includes private and/or group lessons on most orchestral instruments, private and/or group instruction in theory and composition, chamber music, Kindermusik, and one of the largest adult mandolin orchestras in the nation. Our outreach activities include providing area public schools with instructors for private teaching during school hours and assisting public school instructors with supplemental classes. The physical space of the academy includes nineteen teaching studios and two large ensemble rooms. Approximately 325 students study privately year round for 15, 30, 45, or 60 minutes once a week (or more when requested). Our faculty members are highly qualified on their respective instruments, performing and holding leadership positions with various orchestras and chamber groups in the area. Bringing highly skilled teachers to young students during their formative years and providing enrichment opportunities to the adults of our community are the primary goals of the Academy. Public recitals are presented approximately ten times per year. Crescendo provides an on-site accompanist for the performing students. Chamber groups perform at functions and venues throughout southwestern Michigan.