EMUViews

The Summit Playhouse: Audition Notice - Over the River and Through the Woods

2012-01-12T10:04:00.001-05:00

Over the River andThrough the Woods by Jo DiPietro

Directed by Julia Frieri

Production dates: April 27 – May 12, 2012

Audition Dates:
Sunday, January 22 at 7 pm
Monday, January 23 at 7 pm
Callbacks on Wednesday, January 25 at 7 pm

Sides will be provided.

All auditions are at The Playhouse, 10 New England Ave, Summit, NJ (directions:http://summitplayhouse.org/auditions.html).

Synopsis:
Nick is a single, Italian-American guy from NJ. His parents retired to Florida.He sees both sets of grandparents every Sunday for dinner. The dream job he'sbeen waiting for -- marketing executive -- would take him away from hisbeloved, but annoying, grandparents. Thus begins a series of schemes to keepNick around. How could he betray his family's love to move to Seattle for ajob? In this delightful and touching comedy they do their level best to makehim change his mind.

Character Breakdown:

Nick Cristano	Late 20s-Early 30s. High-strung, excitable, loyal grandson. Trying to find a way to honor the past while growing up and moving toward his future.
Frank Gianelli	Can look 60s plus. Maternal grandfather and husband of Aida. Patriarch, family is the center of his world. Worked hard to provide a better life for his descendants and he does not want to slow down. Straight shooter.
Aida Gianelli	Can look 60s plus. Maternal grandmother and wife of Frank. Shows her love through her cooking. Caregiver. Well-meaning but overbearing.
Nunzio Cristano	Can look 60s plus. Paternal grandfather and husband of Emma. Wisecracking and loud but full of heart. Great storyteller, charismatic, strong.
Emma Cristano	Can look 60s plus. Paternal grandmother and wife of Nunzio. Loud and strong woman. Tells it like it is. Schemes to keep Nick around. Loves her husband.
Caitlin O’Hare	Mid to Late 20s. Irish, envies that all of Nick’s grandparents are around. Charming, opinionated. Wants to find love.

Are you interested in becoming more involved in the Playhouse? Want to workbackstage? Help with costumes and make-up? We are always looking for assistancein our productions. Contact Sally Ponzio at 908-273-2192 or send mail to President@SummitPlayhouse.org.

Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts Announces First Ever Spring Musical - Into the Woods Jr.

2011-12-06T14:17:00.001-05:00

Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts is thrilled to announce its first ever Spring Musical! For our first full-length musical theater production, we have chosen to produce the Sondheim/Lapine classic INTO THE WOODS JR.

The Brothers Grimm "go Broadway" as Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine offer up a cockeyed fairy tale where all of your favorite characters – Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and his beanstalk) and The Witch – meet and interact on their journeys. With unforgettable roles, INTO THE WOODS JR. showcases an ensemble of talented singers and actors. The sophisticated score has been adapted to make it easier – though still challenging – for young performers. INTO THE WOODS JR. is a funny and engaging way to get young people to think about the stories with which they've grown up and the ethical issues raised therein.

Students who would like to participate in INTO THE WOODS JR. will have to register for “Elefante Spring Musical Workshop” in the Spring 2012 semester. This class will meet Thursdays from 5:30-7:00pm from January 26 – May 24, and dress rehearsals will take place May 30 and 31. The performances will take place June 1 and 2 at the Oakes Center in Summit, NJ.

There’s nothing like putting on a show! This class is a great opportunity to take part in a unique and exciting musical theater performance experience. In addition to performers, we’ll also be looking for talented set builders, painters and stage crew members who want to be part of this fun production.

In addition to INTO THE WOODS JR., we'll also be offering a roster of fun performing arts classes at our studio in New Providence. Our classes this spring will include: 3-in-1 Acting/Dancing/Singing, Acting the Song, Musical Theater, Acting Onstage, Drama Fun, Tap and Broadway Baby.

For more information or to register, contact Stefani at (908) 464-5928 or shealey@elefantemusic.com, or visit www.elefantemusic.com/springmusical.shtml.

A Well-Deserved Honor for Nelson

2011-11-21T17:54:00.001-05:00

Our very own Nelson Popp was named a Road Rep of the Year by School Music Dealer magazine. Congratulations, Nelson!!! Click here to read the entire article.

A Note from the Artistic Director

2011-11-17T15:43:00.001-05:00

With the Holidays just around the corner, now is the ideal time to register for or inquire about spring performing arts classes. The spring semester starts Here are the classes we're offering this coming spring:

3-in-1: Acting, Dancing, Singing
Karen Cantor, Greta Martin and Laura Chaneski

Acting the Song
Joe Elefante & Stephanie Kurtzuba

Musical Theater
Karen Cantor

Acting
Clare Dill

Drama Fun with Miss Clare
Clare Dill

Musical Theater Dance
Laura Chaneski

Beginning & Intermediate Tap
Laura Chaneski

For more information or to register for classes, please visit our Performing Arts Classes page. Happy Holidays!

Joe Elefante
Artistic Director
Elefante School for the Performing Arts

When It's Time to Upgrade - Elefante 10/11 Newsletter

2011-10-20T11:00:00.006-04:00

When It's Time to Upgrade - Elefante 10/11 Newsletter

In This Issue:

When It's Time to Upgrade
Student of the Month
So You Have Your Instrument...
Teacher Feature

Back to School - the September 2011 Elefante Newsletter

2011-09-23T10:54:00.004-04:00

Back to School - the September 2011 Elefante Newsletter

A Note from the Artistic Director

2011-08-18T16:12:00.004-04:00

Another fantastic summer is winding down! We had three sessions of Music Theater Camp and a week of Jazz Camp. This week, we are in the midst of Rock Camp, and next week we conclude our summer performing arts camps with All-Girl Band. Come by and see the final Rock Camp performance at Crossroads this Friday, August 19th, followed by the internationally acclaimed Joe Elefante Big Band (led by Yours Truly).

Now is the ideal time to sign up for Fall Lessons and Classes. This fall we're offering 3-in-1 Acting/Dancing/Singing, Acting the Song (our by-audition-only music theater performance class), Musical Theater I & II, Acting I & II, Musical Theater Dance I & II, Beginning & Intermediate Tap and Broadway Baby (for 3-7 year-olds). These classes are, of course, in addition to instrumental, voice and dance lessons with our roster of first-rate private instructors. Contact Stefani at shealey@elefantemusic.com or (908) 464-5928, or just visit www.elefantemusic.com for more information or to register.

Thanks to all of you for making this yet another summer to remember.

Joe Elefante

Artistic Director

Elefante School for the Performing Arts

jack menashe photography - affordable actor headshots

2011-08-18T16:03:00.003-04:00

Jack Menashe is proud to be bringing professional and affordable high quality headshot photography to Elefante Music and School for the Performing Arts!

A veteran of the entertainment industry and former president of one of New York’s leading talent agencies, Jack Menashe has developed the careers of many of Hollywood and Broadway’s leading performers. He has been known to have photographed Golden Globe, Academy Award, and Tony Award celebrated artists. Having shot thousands of beautiful headshots, his work has been seen on CD covers, America’s Next Top Model, and inVanity Fa ir.

Jack will be offering an exclusive rate to all members of Elefante Music and School for the Performing Arts, and is available to shoot either within the location of the school or at your home. If you give him a call or send him an email, he will discuss with you how he may provide you with great quality, highly effective headshots!

All of Jack Menashe’s sessions include make-up, consultation and a CD of your photographs. He will guide you in your selection of which pictures will work best for you, and will provide you with information on the process of having your photographs duplicated and/or retouched.

Jack’s website can be viewed at http://www.jackmenashe.com.

You could also reach him by telephone at (917) 837-3020, and by email: jack@jackmenashe.com.

He is extremely excited about hearing from all of you, and hopes that he may provide you with everything that you need to continue on your path of success!!

"Is It August 15th Already?" - the August 2011 Elefante Newsletter

2011-08-16T16:31:00.001-04:00

"Is It August 15th Already?" - the August 2011 Elefante Newsletter

What's Going on at Elefante

2011-07-26T12:29:00.001-04:00

"What's Going on at Elefante" - 07/11 Newsletter

Elefante Music Theater Camp

2011-07-13T15:45:00.004-04:00

With Session I of Elefante Music Theater Camp now over, we have been having a blast at Session II so far! Next Friday, July 22nd, we'll be at the beatiful RidgePAC performing music from Cabaret, My Fair Lady, Beauty and the Beast, Candide, Mack & Mabel, Dreamgirls, Mary Poppins, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Footloose, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Guys and Dolls, How 2 Succeed in Business without Really Trying, 1776, South Pacific, Sunday in the Park with George, Lucky Stiff and The Most Happy Fella - not bad for only two weeks of camp, right?

If you can't make the performance (or if you just want an encore), you can always check out video of student performances at the Elefante Facebook page.

Believe it or not, there are still slots open for Session III (July 25 - August 5). Visit www.elefantemusic.com/summer.shtml for more info or to register.

Session I Comes to a Close

2011-07-12T11:59:00.004-04:00

We had so much fun at RidgePAC last Friday at the Elefante Music Theater Camp Session I performance! Here is some video of the closing number:

EMU Newsletter 6/11

2011-06-16T13:19:00.000-04:00

EMU Newsletter 6/11

Summer at Elefante
Student of the Month
Thank You!
Teacher Feature
Elefante Represented at Duckfest 11
Joe Directs Little Anthony and the Imperials

Customer Appreciation Day/Open House Video

2011-05-26T14:59:00.007-04:00

Thanks to everyone who came out the Elefante Customer Appreciation Day/Open House last weekend. Enjoy some video of the day's events:

The Elefante All-Stars perform "Grenade."

Joe Elefante performs "Up on the Roof" with Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts faculty.

Al Elefante performs "Summer Wind" with Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts faculty.

Kelly Bennett performs "Piece of My Heart" with Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts faculty.

Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts faculty perform "All the Things You Are."

And, as always, check out all of our student and faculty performance videos at www.youtube.com/elefantemusic.

What's on Our Minds...

2011-05-26T09:09:00.001-04:00

Michele is now blogging regularly for New Providence Patch. Check out her latest installment here:

"What Inspires You?"

Joe is still writing Elefante on Entertainment for The Alternative Press. His latest entry can be found here:

"Sending the Elevator Back Down"

Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts is Going Green!

2011-05-12T12:43:00.000-04:00

Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts is Going Green!

Clarinet Mania

2011-05-06T11:48:00.002-04:00

Elefante Music is pleased to be presenting

Clarinet Mania

Monday, May 23

4:30-6:00pm

sponsored by Rico Reeds

Performances by the J.P. Stevens H.S. clarinet choir and clarinet quartet, and many more T.B.A.

Featured clinician/performer: Dr. Edward Joffe

Versatile woodwind artist Dr. Edward Joffe has been a vital part of the New York music scene for 40 years. He has performed in every type of musical situation including jazz bands, orchestral & ballet work, Broadway shows, recording dates, chamber music ensembles and solo recitals. He has offered numerous clinics on woodwinds and jazz at music education conferences and universities over the last two decades. A graduate of the Juilliard School and the first person to receive his doctorate in multiple woodwind performance form the Graduate School of the City University of New York, Dr. Joffe has studied with some of the most respected woodwind artists including Joe Allard, Eddie Daniels, Thomas Nyfenger, Paul Dunkel, Michael Parloff, Joseph Rabbai, Peter Simenauer, Ronald Reuben, Keith Underwood, Bob Porcelli, and Bob Mover.

For the past 20 years, he has been a professor of music at New Jersey City University, where he acts as Coordinator of Jazz & Woodwinds Studies. Under his guidance, New Jersey City University has engaged a faculty of adjunct instructors who are among the finest performers in America and have helped attract a high level of student performer. The jazz band that he conducts has been hailed as one of the best in the country by greats such as Maria Schneider, Charles McPherson, Randy Brecker and Eddie Daniels. He has authored two books on woodwind studies—Woodwind Doubling and Beyond The Notes—and is a popular clinician at music education conventions and schools throughout the U.S. This summer he will be presenting a lecture/performance at the International Clarinet Association Conference in Los Angeles on the legendary woodwind teacher, Joe Allard.

Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts

1790 Springfield Ave.

New Providence, NJ

(908) 464-5928

www.ElefanteMusic.com

"What Music Means to Me"

2011-05-04T10:15:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I didn’t get any responses to my plea for your personal experiences with music. Just for that, you’ll have to hear about mine.

"What Music Means to Me" - The Alternative Press

"What Does Music Mean to You?"

2011-04-20T14:47:00.001-04:00

Joe's latest column for The Alternative Press: "What Does Music Mean to You?"

Summer at Elefante

2011-04-15T11:44:00.002-04:00

Summer at Elefante - the April '11 Elefante Newsletter

Teacher Feature: Anthony Sanacore

2011-04-15T10:26:00.001-04:00

This month's feature is on Anthony Sanacore, guitar teacher.

Anthony Sanacore has been teaching private students for nearly 20 years. He is also an active guitarist, composer, and lyricist. Anthony studied at The New School and Piero's School of Music and privately with Dave Ferrara, John Olin, Ross Barrata, Sheila Mendel, and Kevin Gallagher.

Anthony has performed as a guitarist for over 20 years. He was a member of Young and Fabulous, which performed at Woodstock and the Kiss Expo, and No Future, which played over 300 shows in the New York area at such venues as The Lion's Den, CBGB's, The Scrap Bar, Mother's, Obsessions, Connections, Love Sexy, and the Birch Hill Nightclub. Anthony performs and teaches classical, rock, blues, funk, bebop, swing, ragtime, R&B, reggae, standards, and contemporary pop.

EM: What do you feel is one of the more important aspects of teaching music?

Anthony: Enlightening each student about the connection between art and music. There have been many wonderful compositions written (especially in pop music) that I feel have never resulted in true art. It's a methodology that requires an understanding of public sentiment. This is fine, sociologically speaking, but usually does not express the unique essence of the individual.

Many beginners assume that the guitar is fairly simple to learn because pop stars seem to play effortlessly. They have yet to realize how asymmetrical the guitar is. One challenge of teaching this instrument is demonstrating its esoteric symmetry via its idiom in association with other instrumentation. The aesthetic is eventually revealed as it facilitates inspiration and passion: the platform to a healthy work ethic and the prime ingredients for lifelong satisfaction of musical knowledge.

Who are your favorite performers?

Louis Prima and Yamashita (classical guitarist).

Who has inspired you?

Over the years I’ve gone through a transformation where my inspirations have become intrinsic. There’s a dichotomy I live on everyday: when to be technical, when to throw it out the window for the sake of originality, when to shed the influence. My early inspirations: Keith Emerson, Randy Rhoads, Bob Dylan, Sex Pistols.

Also studying classical guitar with Kevin Gallagher and jazz guitar with Jack Wilkins has done wonders for my overall musicianship as they are of the best in their field.

What are you working on now?

I’m recording a CD which will summarize my abilities. Outside of programming the drums (which is a lot of work), I am playing all of the instruments and writing most of the songs. My friend, who has sung professionally, will do most of the vocals. I estimate it will be done before 2012. The compositions that I don’t write will be classical pieces or jazz standards.

What advice can you give?

Dare to be different and be true to yourself. Some of the best music, at one time, was unusual and unpopular.

Music Theater Camp Song List

2011-04-13T15:21:00.003-04:00

As you may have already heard, this year's summer music theater camp theme is All Roads Lead to Broadway. We'll take a look at the different places shows come from: movies, the library, the radio, and real life.

Here is a list of some of the songs we'll be performing throughout the summer:

Library: Masquerade (Phantom of the Opera), For Good (Wicked), Make Our Garden Grow (Candide), Willkommen (Cabaret), Get Me to the Church on Time (My Fair Lady), Sit Down You're Rockin' the Boat (Guys and Dolls), Ease on Down the Road (The Wiz), Solla Sollew (Seussical the Musical), Ragtime (Ragtime).

Movies: Butter Outta Cream (Catch Me If You Can), Prologue (Little Shop of Horrors), Let's Go Fly a Kite (Mary Poppins), Without Love (Hairspray), Fame (Fame).

Radio: Mamma Mia (Mamma Mia), Yakety Yak/Charlie Brown (Smokey Joe's Cafe).

Real Life: Sunday (Sunday in the Park with George), Movies Were Movies (Mack and Mabel).

For more info on summer camps, click here

Summer Camp Performance Venue

2011-04-13T15:07:00.003-04:00

We are proud to be presenting this year's Music Theater Camp final performances at Ridge PAC, a professional quality performance space in Basking Ridge. Ridge PAC is a 1,000-seat theater with state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment, a large private parking lot, a spacious lobbyand CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING!!! Wanna know more about Elefante Music Theater Camp, Jazz Camp, Rock Camp, or All-Girl Band Camp?

Click here for more info on camps and how to register.

Fight for Common Sense

2011-03-31T17:52:00.001-04:00

"It would seem like common sense that, when a program involves the vast majority of students, it shouldn’t be dismantled.

Wouldn’t it?"

Latest Article for Elefante on Entertainment:

Fight for Common Sense

Elefante March '11 Newsletter

2011-03-15T12:57:00.000-04:00

Elefante March '11 Newsletter

A Note from the Artistic Director

2011-03-03T17:54:00.001-05:00

I'm really, REALLY excited for our summer camps.

In addition to our old favorites, Jazz Camp and Rock Camp, we're bringing back All-Girl Band Camp for a second time around. If you haven't seen last year's performance videos from the Crossroads and the Oakes Center, they're all up at the Elefante YouTube Channel.

Our Music Theater Camp theme this year is All Roads Lead to Broadway. I got to thinking about all the recent Broadway shows that have been based on movies, and how that was a relatively new phenomenon. It reminded me that shows come from all sorts of sources, but most of them come from four places - the movies, the library, the radio, and real life.

So that's the theme of this year's MTC performances. Each section of the show will feature songs from either film, books and plays, popular music, or history. I can't wait to start putting the show together.

Speaking of which - I know it seems like a long time away, but there's no better time than the present to sign up for summer camp. Contact Stefani at (908) 464-5928 or shealey@elefantemusic.com for more information or to register. Or visit the Summer at Elefante page.

Thanks!

Joe Elefante

Artistic Director

Elefante School for the Performing Arts

Elefante Feature Article

2011-03-03T09:11:00.003-05:00

Here's a great feature on us from thealternativepress.com:

"Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts: A Local Family Business that has a Major Presence in the New Jersey Music Industry"

"The Gateway Game"

2011-02-13T17:05:00.001-05:00

In Joe's latest column for The Alternative Press, "The Gateway Game," he bids a fond farewell to Guitar Hero, and explores its role in getting kids involved with music.

Jersey Voices

2011-02-07T14:32:00.003-05:00

I've forwarded a message from my friend Bob Denmark at Chatham Community Players.

Joe Elefante

Hello New Jersey Playwrights

Hope it has been a good year for all of you. It is once again time to be thinking about submitting one-acts for Jersey Voices. For those of you who have already sent along submissions for Jersey Voices '11 - thank you! For those of you who have not, I want to remind you that the deadline is coming up soon - this years DEADLINE is MARCH 15th. So please put the finishing touches on those plays sitting on you desk/desktop and send them along. This year we are only accepting submissions by e-mail to the address listed below. This transition has been a few years in coming and now it's here.

Play submissions of any genre (including short musical and dance pieces), style and length up to 20 minutes running time will be accepted through March 15, 2011. Selected pieces will be performed in our Black Box Theater in Chatham on the last weekend in July and first weekend in August.

If we've not chosen your work in the past, please don't give up on us. Each year we have produced new pieces by an author whose work we've passed over in the past; it usually has more to do with trying to balance 6 separate pieces for an enjoyable evening of theater than it has to do with the quality of the piece which has been passed over. In fact, under these circumstances, we have often held over a piece we've liked and given it consideration in the following year. Some of these 'holdovers' have subsequently been chosen, produced, and favorably received.

I'm looking forward to seeing your work this year and, as I know that many of you come to see Jersey Voices, to seeing you again this summer. If you have not already introduced yourself, when you're in the audience please stay for the reception we have after each performance and introduce yourself. We'd love to meet you.

If you have any questions, visit our website at www.chathamplayers.org or send me an e-mail at jerseyvoices@chathamplayers.org. We're accepting scripts this year by e-mail only to:

jerseyvoices@chathamplayers.org

Best regards,

Bob Denmark, Producer

Jersey Voices '11

"Too Much Public Theater?"

2011-02-04T14:09:00.002-05:00

Latest column in Elefante on Entertainment: "Too Much Public Theater?"

Brand new National Endowment for the Arts Chairman and perennial firebrand Rocco Landesman made some typically controversial comments at a conference in Washington last week.

click here to read the rest of the article

The Joe Elefante Big Band Returns

2011-01-25T14:31:00.001-05:00

The Joe Elefante Big Band Returns

Sunday, January 30th, 7:30-10:30pm

Trumpets Jazz Club & Restaurant

6 Depot Square, Montclair NJ

(973) 744-2600 * www.trumpetsjazz.com

$10 cover/$5 min.

After a hiatus or nearly five years, the Joe Elefante Big Band is returning to Trumpets, one of the venues it played frequently before becoming the house band at Cecil’s Jazz Club for three years. From 2001-2006, the Joe Elefante Big Band was featured on ABC’s Nightline and the Fine Living Network. Nat Hentoff of the Wall Street Journal wrote: “During the evening, I could barely stay in my seat at times and often shouted in sheer pleasure...The crisp, charging brass section of the Elefante band would have delighted Duke Ellington, and the surgingly cohesive reed section recalled the sound of the Benny Carter and Thad Jones big bands...If the Joe Elefante Big Band gets booked into rooms for dancing as well as listening, there might be a revival, across the age spectrum, of transcendent romance on the dance floor.”

Come celebrate the re-emergence of this internationally acclaimed, original jazz orchestra. Be sure to make a reservation at (973) 744-2600 – it should be a MADHOUSE!

Bring in the New Year with Music

2011-01-12T11:41:00.002-05:00

Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts Newsletter, 1/11

"Happy New Year, Music World"

2011-01-10T15:12:00.001-05:00

Our latest entry in Elefante on Entertainment:

"Happy New Year, Music World"

"Happy New Year, all! Here’s to the dawn of another great year in the music world. There’s a lot to look forward to in the coming year so, with no further ado, let’s get started:" click here to continue

"Don't Take My Word for It"

2010-12-29T16:41:00.001-05:00

Our latest column for Elefante on Entertainment: "Don't Take My Word for It."

"The future belongs to young people with an education and the imagination to create." - Barack Obama

Spiderman on the "Web"/Holiday Entertainment Options

2010-12-22T10:31:00.002-05:00

In his latest article for The Alternative Press, Joe chronicles some of the salty banter being hurled throughout the Twitterverse about the recent spate of injuries at Spider-Man, Turn off the Dark:

Spiderman on the "Web"

And here is an article from Examiner.com about Holiday performance options:

Holiday Entertainment

"So You Want to Make a Recording..."

2010-12-14T19:18:00.000-05:00

Our latest installment in Elefante on Entertainment:

"So You Want to Make a Recording..."

R.I.P. James Moody

2010-12-10T18:03:00.001-05:00

Today is a celebration of the life of one of the greatest jazz musicians who ever lived - and the pride of Newark, NJ.

A Jazz Giant Passes

JerseyArts.com People's Choice Awards

2010-12-08T13:36:00.000-05:00

If you'd like, write in "Elefante School for the Performing Arts" as best classes for kids and adults, and for best theater camp! I did... ;0)

http://www.jerseyarts.com/peopleschoice/

Happy Holidays from Elefante Music& School for the Performing Arts

2010-12-08T13:35:00.001-05:00

Elefante Newsletter, 12/10

Why You Shouldn't Watch the Grammys

2010-12-03T09:21:00.000-05:00

Our latest column for the Alternative Press:

Okay – time for a tirade. I know I’m still supposed to be young and hip and all that, but I can’t help but be nauseated by the nominations for the 2011 Grammy Awards.

click here to read the rest of the article

Elefante November '10 Newlsetter

2010-11-29T14:20:00.000-05:00

Elefante November '10 Newlsetter

"Today, for Many Kids, It's Not a Choice" (pt. 4 of 4)

2010-11-29T14:04:00.000-05:00

Robert B. Morrison has a long history as a supporter of music education and is widely recognized as one of the nation’s leading advocates for music and arts in education and in society. He is the founder of Quadrant Arts Education Research, the nation’s leading arts education research and intelligence organization. Mr. Morrison’s leadership in research, public policy and advocacy efforts has led to significant advancements in access to music and arts education programs across the nation.

Prior to founding Quadrant Arts Education Research Mr. Morrison was the founder of Music for All, one of the nation’s largest and most influential music education organizations where he remains Chairman Emeritus. Mr. Morrison helped develop and then served as the CEO of the VH1 Save The Music Foundation where he took a small promotional idea and created a major national brand donating more than $25 million of musical instruments to restore more than 1200 music programs. Previously, Mr. Morrison was a senior executive for the NAMM - International Music Products Association, where he served as Executive Director of the American Music Conference where he worked with the late Michael Kamen and Richard Dreyfus to create the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation.

It was my immense pleasure to spend an evening with Mr. Morrison. I hope you've enjoyed his insight as much as I did. Again, if you have any comments or would like to add to the conversation, feel free to reach me at joe@elefantemusic.com. Thanks for reading!

"Today, for Many Kids, It's Not a Choice" (pt. 4 of 4)

[title of show]

2010-11-19T10:51:00.002-05:00

Go support my friends Matt Lenz and Susan Mosher:

George St. Playhouse presents

[title of show]

November 16 - December 12, 2010

Music and Lyrics by Jeff Bowen

Book by Hunter Bell

Directed by Matt Lenz

Music Directed by Jesse Vargas

with Lauren Kennedy, Tyler Maynard, Susan Mosher and Seth Rudetsky

A musical comedy for anyone who has followed a dream. When two struggling writers make a commitment to write something new in three weeks, they quickly find that writing a comedy about the process of writing was more interesting than anything else they could write! A show about four friends taking risks, creating art, killing Vampires (the dream-destroying kind, not the Dracula kind) — and how relationships change when life happens.

Auditions for David Mamet's GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS

2010-11-19T10:42:00.002-05:00

The Chatham Community Players will hold open auditions for GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS by David Mamet. The production runs March 4 – 19, 2011 at the Chatham Playhouse. Chase Newhart directs.

Auditions will be held on Sunday, December 5 at 6:30pm and Monday, December 6 at 7pm. Both auditions will be held at The Chatham Playhouse, 23 North Passaic Ave., Chatham. Director Chase Newhart asks that actors be familiar with the script. Sides will be provided at the audition.

The Chatham Players have an open call casting policy. ALL roles are open, none are precast, and everyone is encouraged to audition. Any questions please call Kristin Furlong at (732) 208-4184 or email her at kristinbarber33@yahoo.com. For directions or additional information, please visit www.chathamplayers.org.

Synopsis:

David Mamet's 1984 Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Glengarry Glen Ross, follows the lives of four unethical Chicago real estate agents who are prepared to go to any lengths (legal or illegal) to unload undesirable real estate on unwilling prospective buyers.

Character Breakdown:

Ricky Roma (Salesman, 40s) Suave, successful, devious and out for himself.

Shelly Levine (Salesman, 50s/60s) Sinking desperately in tragic quicksand, his boastfulness will lead to humiliation.

John Williamson (Manager, 30s/40s) Without real sales experience, apparently a company man – but nevertheless willing to scam in his own interest.

Dave Moss (Salesman, 50s) Tough, crude, and too bitter to play well the hand he’s been dealt.

George Aronow (Salesman, 50s) Frustrated and meek, depressed but accepting, he is needy – but still has common sense.

James Lingk (married, 30s/40s) We meet him drinking alone. Sensitive, malleable to others and deeply flawed.

Detective Baylen (Police Officer, 40s) Experienced, no-nonsense cop. Strong – will use force when needed.

* No MSG was used in the preparation of this audition notice.

Chris Furlong

Publicity Director

Chatham Players

(201) 602-8562

"Today, for Many Kids, It's Not a Choice..." (pt. 3 of 4)

2010-11-17T17:54:00.002-05:00

“I understand he has the bully pulpit. I want more bully and less pulpit.” - Robert B. Morrison on the Obama administration's policy on arts education. We also touch on the history of VH1's Save the Music, and much more...

On November 1st, Joe had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. Morrison. Part 3 of 4 is the next installment in our regular column, "Elefante on Entertainment.

"Today, For Many Kids, It's Not A Choice" (pt. 3 of 4)

"Today, For Many Kids, It's Not A Choice" (pt. 2 of 4)

2010-11-11T15:47:00.004-05:00

"Are you okay with the fact that half your children don’t have access to programs?" - Robert B. Morrison on the mission of Quadrant Arts, the company he founded for the purpose of assessing arts education programs throughout the country.

On November 1st, Joe had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. Morrison. Part 2 of 4 is the next installment in our regular column, "Elefante on Entertainment.

"Today, For Many Kids, It's Not A Choice" (pt. 2 of 4)

Karl Bruhn

2010-11-04T16:15:00.000-04:00

In our most recent "Elefante on Entertainment" column, arts education advocate Robert B. Morrison mentions the recent death of his mentor, Karl Bruhn. We've taken the liberty of linking to the thoughtful tribute in Music Inc Magazine here:

Remembering Industry Pioneer Karl Bruhn

"Today, for Many Kids, It's Not a Choice..."

2010-11-03T14:56:00.001-04:00

On November 1st, Joe had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. Morrison. Part 1 of 4 is the next installment in our regular column, "Elefante on Entertainment."

"Today, for Many Kids, It's Not a Choice...."

The Flies

2010-10-25T13:17:00.001-04:00

Check out www.facebook.com/elefantemusic for a great new video featuring "The Flies," a band comprised of all Elefante students.

Elefante Newsletter October 2010

2010-10-19T15:01:00.002-04:00

Here is the latest installment of the Elefante Newsletter: http://p0.vresp.com/Huehab.

And remember - there are still slots open for a few of our Performing Arts classes. Visit www.elefanteperformingarts.com for more information about our teachers and classes.

Arts Education Benefits Today’s Youth

2010-10-11T12:49:00.000-04:00

Our latest column for the Alternative Press

All-Girl Video

2010-10-11T10:46:00.002-04:00

The video of the final performance of "The Dynamite Girls," the Elefante Music Summer All-Girl Band, at the Crossroads in Garwood, is now up at www.facebook.com/elefantemusic. The camp and the performance were so much fun, I can't wait to do it again next year.

"Elefante on Entertainment"

2010-10-04T09:43:00.000-04:00

Our first "Elefante on Entertainment" column is now posted on The Alternative Press:

"There’s Always Somebody More Talented than You"

A Great Review of "Hairspray" at the Papermill in today's Star Ledger.

2010-09-28T12:07:00.000-04:00

http://www.nj.com/entertainment/arts/index.ssf/2010/09/hairspray_review_triumphant_op.html

Camp Video

2010-08-16T09:09:00.001-04:00

More camp video up at the Elefante School Facebook page...

"Put on Your Sunday Clothes"

2010-08-11T12:37:00.003-04:00

First video is up...

http://www.facebook.com/elefantemusic

Music Theater Camp... a Retrospective

2010-08-09T15:10:00.005-04:00

Music Theater Camp Session 3 is over, and all we can say is... WOW! Each session we were surprised (although I guess we shouldn't have been) by how much the performers were able to put together in so short a time. In addition to performing four full company numbers, two small group numbers, solos, three dance numbers, and three skits each session, the "Littles" helped write their own puppet show with Miss Clare and the "Bigs" wrote, staged, and built props for their own short plays. We had visits from casting directors Paul Russell and Bob Cline, designer Brian Lynch, our own Shakespeare expert Susanna Baddiel, mime Luana Jones, costumers C&J Costumes, and Broadway star Stephanie Kurtzuba three times!

Many thanks to Karen Cantor, Greta Martin, Suzanne Hevner, Caryn Elefante, and Clare Dill for helping to make this summer so special for all three groups. But, mostly, thanks to the students who all came to work, grow, and have a blast this summer. Please stay tuned to this blog and the Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts Facebook Page for video of all three of our final performances at the Oakes Center.

And, if you had as much fan as I did this summer, please check out our course listing for fall at the Elefante School.

Music Theater Camp

2010-07-19T14:31:00.004-04:00

Session 1 ended with a bang last Friday, as the campers put together a fantastic final performance at the Oakes Center (video coming soon!). Session 2 is just finishing up its first week, and we are having a blast putting together all the new material.

There are still slots available for Session 3, which runs from July 26-August 6. Contact Stefani at shealey@elefantemusic.com or (908) 464-5928 to sign up.

Meanwhile, stop by www.elefanteperformingarts.com/classes.shtml to check out the great class offerings for Fall 2010!

New Clips of Live Performances

2010-05-18T12:43:00.003-04:00

Swing by the Elefante Music Facebook page for video clips of the most recent live performances at the Elefante School for the Performing Arts. Featured are clips of Cadence (January), NJCU Jazz Ensemble (April 8th), and WindSync (April 30th).

While you're at it, become a fan and get regular updates on all of the new content as soon as it's available...

www.facebook.com/elefantemusic

Musical Theater Summer Camp Theme - 2010

2010-05-04T09:13:00.005-04:00

We've chosen the theme for the final revues of our three musical theater camp sessions this summer. The theme for all three sessions will be: Broadway: Then & Now. The first half of the performance, Then, will feature Broadway shows before 1970, and the second half, Now, will feature shows since 1970.

I know, it's a very broad theme! But we feel strongly that this is a fitting theme for the first year of our camp. Plus, it means that we are free to feature you on whatever material is best for you.

We still have spots available for all three sessions, but they are filling up quickly, so make sure you call me or Stefani at (908) 464-5928 to inquire about the camp as soon as possible. I am particularly excited about the Wild Card period after lunch. I've already spoken to a Broadway casting director and a star of a currently running Broadway show about coming in to give master classes, and they are on board.

I also know a lot of you are looking to start auditioning for shows in the fall and beyond. Here at the Elefante School for the Performing Arts, we're dedicated to preparing students for auditions at all levels, including how to choose material, prepare material, prepare sheet music, dress, enter the room, present themselves, perform, and exit the room. We are going to be working on this a lot at the summer camp. But if you can't join us during the summer, maybe you'll consider joining us in the fall. Fall course selections will be at elefanteperformingarts.com shortly, so stay tuned.

Thanks for reading!

Joe Elefante

Artistic Director

Elefante School for the Performing Arts

Jazz in the Middle

2010-04-26T12:57:00.002-04:00

The following post is from John Gillick, one of the band directors who brought his jazz band to the "Jazz in the Middle" festival at Chatham High School on Monday, April 19th.

As a music educator I am always looking for educational and fun performance opportunities for my students. At the Chatham Middle School Jazz Festival I found what I was looking for. This event was a top notch and well run festival. The commentary was very helpful and encouraging to the students to continue their progress in jazz music. I will not hesitate to attend this event again. Thanks to Elefante Music and Christie Spriggs from Chatham Middle School for coordinating this festival.

Regards,

John Gillick

Band Director

Terrill Middle School

NJCU Jazz Ensemble @ the Elefante School

2010-04-21T13:16:00.003-04:00

Many thanks to the New Jersey City University Jazz Ensemble, who performed at the Elefante School for the Performing Arts on Thursday, April 8th at 6:30pm. Below is some video of the fantastic performance.

Thad Jones's "Little Pixie"

Don Sebesky's "Warm Valley"

"There Will Never Be Another You"

Practicing What They Preach

2010-03-28T12:45:00.001-04:00

One of my children’s teachers once told me that the best advice she ever received about becoming a teacher, was that she not ask her students do to anything she herself was not doing. As a result, she teaches violin and plays in an orchestra. There is something about performance that is different than just taking lessons or teaching.

This story applies equally well to two of the teachers at the Elefante School for The Performing Arts. Both Karen Cantor and Susanna Baddiel practice what they teach.

In addition to teaching Musical Theater classes, Karen recently appeared in A Light in the Piazza at the Cranford Dramatic Club. Karen played Franca Naccarelli, a woman who does not speak English, only Italian. As the mother of the young man who falls in love, Karen portrayed a woman who loved life, her son, and who knew how to behave within the norms and constraints of an Italian family in 1953. Her accent was flawless, her musical number captivating, and her presence on stage was always felt by the audience.

This week our Shake It up with Shakespeare teacher, Susanna Baddiel, performed as Titania, Queen of the Fairies and Hippolyta, the Queen of the Amazons in the Actors Shakespeare Company production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream in Jersey City. Susanna was stunning as the lovely queens, believable as the woman who captured a changeling child, and did not want to give him up, and sympathetic as the wife of a man who deceived her into believing she was in love with a donkey. It was a terrific performance!

We are lucky to have great teacher/performers teaching our children every week.

Article contributed by Paula Roper

Jersey Voices @ Chatham Playhouse

2010-03-10T10:28:00.000-05:00

A Great Opportunity for Local Playwrights:

Hello New Jersey Playwrights

Hope it has been a good year for all of you. It is once again time to be thinking about submitting one-acts for Jersey Voices. For those of you who have already sent along submissions for Jersey Voices '10 - thank you! For those of you who have not, I want to remind you that the deadline is coming up soon - this years DEADLINE is MARCH 15th. So please put the finishing touches on those plays sitting on you desk/desktop and send them along. At this late date, I'd definitely suggest making submissions by e-mail to the address listed below.

Unfortunately, we've had some trouble with our ISP and our site has been down for a while now - including email. If you have been having trouble reaching us at jerseyvoices@chathamplayers.org, try submitting to jerseyvoices@optonline.net. The original address is better as it distributes the plays to those who need to have them automatically, but if that bounces, try the optonline address. Under the circumstances, we will stretch the deadline a little bit for those of you who have had trouble with your original submissions.

Play submissions of any genre (including short musical and dance pieces), style and length up to 20 minutes running time will be accepted through March 15, 2009. Selected pieces will be performed in our Black Box Theater in Chatham on the last weekend in July and first weekend in August.

If we've not chosen your work in the past, please don't give up on us. Each year we have produced new pieces by an author whose work we've passed over in the past; it usually has more to do with trying to balance 6 separate pieces for an enjoyable evening of theater than it has to do with the quality of the piece which has been passed over. In fact, under these circumstances, we have often held over a piece we've liked and given it consideration in the following year. Some of these 'holdovers' have subsequently been chosen, produced, and favorably received.

I'm looking forward to seeing your work this year and, as I know that many of you come to see Jersey Voices, to seeing you again this summer. If you have not already introduced yourself, when you're in the audience please stay for the reception we have after each performance and introduce yourself. We'd love to meet you.

If you have any questions, visit our website at www.chathamplayers.org or send me an e-mail at jerseyvoices@chathamplayers.org. We're accepting scripts this year by e-mail (preferably) or regular mail (still ok):

Send submissions by e-mail to:
jerseyvoices@chathamplayers.org or Jerseyvoices@optonline.net

or mail Submissions to:
Jersey Voices c/o CCP
P.O. Box 234
Chatham, NJ 07928
Include a SASE ONLY if you'd like your script returned to you

Best regards,
Bob Denmark, Producer
Jersey Voices '10

Sprouting Elephants

2010-03-02T11:38:00.002-05:00

Sprouting Elephants is a preschool enrichment program that teaches with children, not to children. Children are so open and willing at this age, and we want to keep that alive in each of them. Although the classroom will be structured, the atmosphere will feel relaxed and full of creativity.

Sprouting Elephants is for children ages 3 to 5. We offer a half day morning or afternoon program. You can choose from a 3 or 5 day a week program.

Our open house will be held on Wednesday March 10 and Saturday March 13 from 9 am to 1 pm. We will also offer showings and meetings by appointment.

Sprouting Elephants supports performing arts and will also provide opportunities in violin, ballet, and drama as wrap around programs. We invite you to meet our wonderful teacher, Melissa and see if Sprouting Elephants is the place for your special little one to continue growing!

What makes Sprouting Elephants right for your child?

Sprouting Elephants will allow your child to be him/herself while learning and exploring, making new friends, becoming independent and gaining responsibility. This will be done through creativity and a nurturing environment where your child will feel comfortable, cared for and excited to learn.

What is special about Sprouting Elephants?

Sprouting Elephants has elements that set it apart from other programs. Important areas of our curriculum are: The Performing Arts so that the children have endless ways to express themselves, Green Living which promotes community responsibility and Self Guided Learning which ensures the child will

be engaged in the process.

How are parents involved in the process?

Parents are often seen as mirrors of the community. Children learn roles and values from their parents and guardians. We feel that parental involvement is necessary and invaluable. Communication is constant throughout the program with a journal for the teacher and parent to write notes to each other. We are

always open to hearing your concerns. We offer three private conferences throughout the year: One at the start of the program, one during, and one at the end.

Sprouting Elephants

1790 Springfield Ave.

New Providence, NJ

(908) 464-5928

shealey@elefantemusic.com

Summer Music Camps

2010-03-02T10:45:00.003-05:00

We're really excited about our three instrumental music camps this summer. Click on the name of each camp below for more information:

Summer Jazz Camp

Summer Rock Project

Summer All-Girl Rock Camp

Thanks!

Summer 2010 Musical Theater Camp

2010-02-22T14:52:00.004-05:00

Summer 2010 Musical Theater Camp

Artistic Director – Joe Elefante, Broadway Conductor

Program Director – Stefani Healey

Camp at a Glance:

Morning: Each morning will be dedicated to classes in each of the following: Dance, Musical Theater, and Acting

Lunch Break

Afternoon: The first part of the afternoon will be set aside for a different and exciting class/event each day, such as: a visit from a casting director, musical theater repertoire, vocal lessons, pop singing, etc.

The second part of the afternoon will be spent in performance workshop rehearsing for the final production.

All sessions run for two weeks and are offered on the following dates:

Session 1- June 28-July 9, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Session 2- July 12-July 23, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Session 3- July 26-August 6, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

For Elementary, Middle, and High School levels. Participants can sign up for 1, 2 or 3 sessions. Each 2-week session costs $550.00.

Early drop-off and late pick- up options are also available.

About Our Director:

Joe Elefante has been musical director, conductor and/or keyboardist for Jersey Boys at the August Wilson Theater on Broadway, the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, NJ, Plays in the Park in Edison, NJ, and dozens of other theaters and schools. He has been on the faculty of the Paper Mill's Summer Conservatory, the NJPAC Jazz for Teens program, and Centenary College's Young Performer's Workshop. His big band has been featured on ABC's Nightline, The Fine Living Network, BigBandJazz.Com, and AllAboutJazz.Com, and in The Wall Street Journal, The Star Ledger, and Jazz Improv magazine. At only nineteen years old he was musical director for a professional production of Me and My Girl at the Williams Center for the Arts in Rutherford, NJ. At age eighteen, he composed and recorded a full-length musical, A Paris Affair, and has since written compositions for big band, small groups, pop/rock bands, and chamber ensembles. As a performer, Joe has toured extensively throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. For more information on Joe visit his website at joeelefante.com.

About our Faculty:

Karen Cantor's professional credits include the role of Venus in the long-awaited revival of Kurt Weill's One Touch of Venus at the Goodspeed Opera House. She played Louisa in The Fantasticks with the Miami Opera, toured as Susan in The Desert Song with Ron Raines, played the title role in an NYC production of Naughty Marietta, Josephine in HMS Pinafore, The Mistress in Evita with Carolee Carmello, Anna in Tintypes, Maria in The Sound of Music, and Starting Here, Starting Now in the Cayman Islands.

Suzanne Hevner has appeared on television and in films including: Doubt, Broken Flower, Changing Lanes and Late Night with Conan O'Brien. She played the Widow Mason in The Broadway Revival of The Music Man. Suzanne also appears in many Regional Theatre productions around the country. With over 15 years of teaching experience, Susanne has taught acting and improvisation for all ages, notice to professional, as well as corporate executives. She teaches acting at the New York Film Academy, The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York, and the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts.

Greta Martin studied dance on scholarship at Alvin Ailey American Dance Center. She has appeared on Broadway in Guys & Dolls, Oh, Kay! and Jerome Robbins’ Broadway and toured internationally with West Side Story playing the role of Anita. Regional theatre credits include Sweet Charity and Victor/Victoria, Peter Pan, as well as TV appearances on Law and Order: SVU and Law and Order: CI. Ms. Martin earned a B.A. in mathematics from Spelman College.

For more information or to sign up contact Stefani Healey 908-464-5928 or shealey@elefantemusic.com.

Joe Elefante Presents Clinic at 2010 NJMEA Conference

2010-01-15T09:56:00.000-05:00

Elefante Music and Jupiter Band Instruments© are pleased to invite you to the

2010 NJMEA Conference

Friday February 19, 10:15-11:30am

East Brunswick Hilton & Towers

3 Tower Center Boulevard

East Brunswick, NJ

for

Sight Reading for Large Ensembles

Clinician: Joe Elefante

w/ the Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School Moonglowers

Congratulations...

2010-01-15T09:53:00.001-05:00

to Columbia High School and Elefante Music student Kip Zenowich for being accepted to the Region 1 Symphonic Band!

Be sure and let us know if your child is accepted to the Region 1 or 2 Junior High band, choir, or orchestra next month so we can post it in the February newsletter.

Cadence performs @ The Elefante School for the Performing Arts

2010-01-15T09:47:00.001-05:00

Cadence performs @ The Elefante School for the Performing Arts

Sunday, January 24th @ 3-4pm

$10 adults/$5 students

Cadence - New Jersey's premier contemporary a cappella group that delivers harmonies that are both soulful and upbeat. Influenced by a wide range of styles and artists, Cadence arranges music from such greats as the Beatles, Bee Gees, Queen, Indigo Girls, Rockapella, as well as selections from the legendary doo-wop era. Cadence is pure vocals... four friends who understand blend and know how to keep it fun for everyone.

www.cadencesings.com

"Why Study A Musical Instrument", by Dr. Edward Joffe

2010-01-15T08:29:00.002-05:00

Why Study A Musical Instrument

By Dr. Edward Joffe

Throughout much of the first half of the 20th Century, the study of music was considered one of the important disciplines in a learned individual’s education. Every student had at least one mandatory general music course in middle school (junior high school) as well as in high school. Most importantly, many also had the opportunity to participate in a band, orchestra, or a choir in grades K—12. In fact, during the 1950s and into the 1960s when the U.S. was engaged in a Cold War with the Soviet Union, the Arts in our country were given great priority (funding) since we needed to demonstrate superiority in this sector in addition to military might, space exploration, athletics, etc. There were also numerous jobs in the music industry during this period. Steady work could be found in symphony orchestras, opera and ballet companies, Broadway pit bands, television and motion picture studio orchestras, dance bands, jazz big bands, Latin music ensembles, and an endless amount of freelance recording. However, today we find ourselves in a radically different environment.

What Happened?

Societies for thousands of years understood the benefits of an education that mandated a wide array of arts as a part of the curriculum. “Plato’s ‘music’ included not only what we call music today, but also the dance, poetry, fine arts, literature, history and other areas of study known as the Liberal Arts.” (Assemblyman Edward C. Sullivan, ALLEGRO, 10/98) European culture dating back to the Middle Ages defined an educated person as someone who was musically literate. As European immigrants migrated to the U.S. in the 18th, 19th and 20th Centuries and brought their traditions and customs with them, musical education became a vital part of the American definition of a well-rounded education.

Technology has altered the way we consume and listen to music today. Changing musical tastes have redefined the means by which music is produced and the number of musicians required to perform newer musical trends, resulting in a loss of most steady work. In addition, educational curriculums have moved further away from the concept of a liberal arts education to an educational policy of increased specialization at an early age. America is obsessed with a left-brain education that can easily be quantified through standardized testing procedures. The creative aspect of the brain—the right side—has been left in the rear and parents are left to pick up the pieces. Educational policy in America is now being determined more and more by businessmen and schools are being run like a corporation. And they are failing! Combined with the economic downturn of the last decade, this has resulted in politicians and education supervisors allocating less money for the Arts. All of these forces have created a different attitude in this country’s view of the study of music and the Arts in general. This discipline is now perceived as an extracurricular activity that’s nice to have on a student’s résumé if one can afford the time and expense, but not essential.

Why Should One Study A Musical Instrument?

The answers to this question are multifold. The study of music requires commitment, patience, attention to details, and an ability to organize one’s time. Learning to read musical notation and employ it in manipulating an instrument is akin to learning to read any language and therefore reinforces those skills in addition to improving hand/eye coordination. The performance of music also demands that one learn to interact with others in rehearsals and performances in order to create successful presentations. Performing in front of audiences helps to build self-confidence and can enhance one’s ego. All of these characteristics are necessary to succeed in any discipline—the study of medicine, law, business, education, athletics, etc. However, these should not be the principal reasons for someone to begin studying an instrument. Here are my ideas behind the rationale for music education:

a. Sophisticated music making of any style is an art form and requires both talent and intellect to produce and perceive.

b. Both performer and listener are able to explore emotions through music that words alone often fail to elicit.

c. Music allows one to gain a greater understanding of world cultures.

What Can A Parent Do?

In the same manner that children are enrolled in after school activities such as soccer leagues, tutoring programs, and religious instruction, parents need to find the cultural outlets for their children that the schools don’t provide or don’t do well enough. This includes music instruction.

The goal of providing a music education should not be to see if one’s child has enough talent to become a star, elicit a scholarship from a college, or become a professional musician. I believe the philosophy should be to allow any youngster to become a lover of music and the arts. One doesn’t develop a lifelong passion for music by taking a music history, general music, or theory course in school. Humans get it when they are actively involved in the process—whether studying music performance privately, participating in a band, orchestra, chamber ensemble, jazz ensemble, choir, rock band, etc. One learns to love baseball by playing the game, not by studying statistics. Once these performing opportunities are made available to youngsters at an early age, they are more likely to have a greater understanding and respect for those artistic endeavors and will tend to support them throughout their lives.

There are many musical instrument companies that make decent quality student-level instruments at affordable prices. Any parent willing to provide their child with the best education possible should do everything they can to offer them the opportunity to study music privately in addition to whatever music may be offered at their schools. As parents, it’s our obligation to define what type of education we desire for our children and not leave it in the hands of politicians and bureaucrats. I can think of no better way to do this than by allowing our kids to experience the thrill of owning and playing a musical instrument.

Versatile woodwind artist Dr. Edward Joffe has been a vital part of the New York music scene for over 35 years. He has performed in every type of musical situation including jazz bands, orchestral work, Broadway shows, recording dates, chamber music ensembles and solo recitals. He has offered numerous clinics on woodwinds and jazz at music education conferences and universities over the last two decades. A graduate of the Juilliard School, Dr. Joffe has studied with some of the most respected woodwind artists including Joe Allard, Eddie Daniels, Thomas Nyfenger, Paul Dunkel, Michael Parloff, Joseph Rabbai, Peter Simerauer, Ronald Reuben, Keith Underwood, Bob Porcelli, and Bob Mover. For the past 19 years, he has been a professor of music at New Jersey City University, where he acts as Coordinator of Jazz, Woodwinds & Brass Studies. Under his guidance, New Jersey City University has engaged a faculty of adjunct instructors who are among the finest performers in America and have helped attract a high level of student performer.

NJCU Woodwind Studies

Flute Mania Roundtable

2009-12-29T14:11:00.010-05:00

Here are some clips of the roundtable interview our Michele Stivalo conducted on December 8th after the Flute Mania recital. From left to right are pianist Ron Levy, Michele, Hartford Symphony flutist Jeanne Wilson, and our flute instructor Laura George.

Jeanne and Laura discuss playing in smaller venues and how they started playing the flute.

Jeanne discusses how she first became interested in music.

Jeanne and Laura discuss doubling on other instruments.

Ron speaks on the challenges of being an accompanist as opposed to a soloist.

Laura on the love of music and how to encourage students to practice.

Many Thanks

2009-12-09T13:39:00.011-05:00

Flute Mania was a huge success! Jeanne, Laura, and Ron really helped to make it such a fun event. Thank you SO MUCH to the many people who showed up throughout the evening to listen to the recital, sample some upgrade instruments, and talk flute. We hope to have many more events like this in the near future, so stay tuned...

In the meantime, check out some the great clips of the recital below. And come back to this page or the Elefante Music Facebook page for some clips of the roundtable interview Michele conducted with our performers after the concert on December 8th.

Jeanne Wilson, Flute

Ron Levy, Piano

Fantaisie for Piano and Flute

Georges Hue (1858-1948)

Jeanne Wilson, Flute

Ron Levy, Piano

Le Rossignol de L'Opera

for Piccolo and Piano

Eugene Damare (1840-1919)

Jeanne Wilson

Laura George

Flutes

Ron Levy, Piano

Andante and Rondo

for Two Flutes and Piano, Op. 25

Albert Franz Doppler (1821-1883)

Rudolph @ The-PAC - A Few Great Clips

2009-12-08T17:21:00.001-05:00

Great job by the Voiceactors' Orchestra performing "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" at The-PAC on December 5th. Here are some clips of the performance.

Flute Mania!

2009-11-23T12:31:00.003-05:00

Tuesday, December 8th, 6-8:30PM is Flute Mania at Elefante Music. At Flute Mania we will offer discounts on our already low prices on Powell Sonare, Selmer, Yamaha, Gemeinhardt, Armstrong, Vito, Jupiter, Azumi, and Dean Yang flutes. We will also be showcasing our extensive collection of flute music and accessories. In addition, our expert repair staff will be on hand to diagnose your flute's condition and perform on-the-spot regulation and adjustments.

Flute Mania will also feature a recital by Hartford Symphony flutist Jeanne Wilson. This performance will also feature our own flute instructor, world-class flutist Laura George. The performance will take place at 7PM in the Elefante Music recital room.

Jeanne Wilson

Laura George

"Rudolph" @ The-PAC

2009-11-19T10:22:00.002-05:00

The Performing Arts Conservatory At Elefante Music
1790 Springfield Ave
New Providence, NJ

presents

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

Saturday – December 5th
Two performances: 3pm and 5pm
For tickets and information call (908) 464-1019
$10 per person ($30 max per family)
Proceeds will be donated to a local charity
Please contact The PAC or Elefante Music
to nominate a charity for this event.

Michele's Article in Prolong Magazine

2009-11-09T13:27:00.001-05:00

Click here to read Michele Stivalo's fantastic article in Prolong Magazine.

Commercial Voice Over for Adults

2009-10-30T11:21:00.000-04:00

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND - FOUR MORE WEEKS

COMMERCIAL VOICE OVER FOR ADULTS

Whether you are new to VOICE ACTING or need more practice - this class is for you.

Taught by Joe Narciso, Co-Founder of the Performing Arts Conservatory & Terrific Voice Actor

Wednesday Evenings from 7pm - 9pm in the MAIN STAGE ROOM

November 11, 18 and December 2, 9

$250.00 is a Terrific Value!

PLEASE RSVP if you intend to participate (We must have at least 4 students to hold the class)

FORWARD TO YOUR FRIENDS - if a friend signs up you get 10% off the price of the class.

QUESTIONS? Contact Paula Roper, Director of The Performing Arts Conservatory

(908) 464-1019 or Cell (908) 803-1157

performingartsconservatory@gmail.com

Elefante Music on Twitter

2009-10-13T11:44:00.000-04:00

Follow Elefante Music on Twitter @ http://twitter.com/elefantemusic.

Broadway Binge - Jersey Boys

2009-10-12T13:53:00.000-04:00

Broadway Binge @ The-PAC

Jersey Boys tickets

Wednesday, November 11th, 8PM

An Evening w/ Miles Aubrey

Monday, November 16th, 7:30PM

The-PAC @ Elefante Music

Hip Hop Master Class w/ Prince Riley

2009-10-12T13:52:00.001-04:00

Hip Hop Master Class w/ Prince Riley

Saturday October 17th, 1-3PM

The-PAC @ Elefante Music

Elefante Music on Facebook

2009-09-09T08:52:00.003-04:00

The new address for the Elefante Music Facebook page is http://www.facebook.com/elefantemusic. Become a fan, or just visit. Thanks!

Grand Opening of The-PAC @ Elefante Music

2009-08-24T09:45:00.002-04:00

Grand Opening Party of The Performing Arts Conservatory @ Elefante Music will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 2nd! Open House begins @ 10:00am with special guests, events and performances all day and night.

10am – Sing Along with Grandma Mary Ann

11am – Introduction to Dance (ages 3-6) w/ Ruthann Lanni

3pm – Acting for Beginners (ages 8 and up) w/ Suzanne Hevner

4pm – Shakespeare for Fun (ages 8 and up) w/Susanna Baddiel

7pm – Premier of Rocks in the River, an independent short film shot entirely in New Providence, NJ

7:30pm-- Musical performance - Joe Elefante & Friends

Plus films featuring PAC performers running all day and plenty of other surprises!

Visit www.The-PAC.com for more information.

P.S.: Check out this great article by The-PAC's Joe Narciso, which posted on The Alternative Press on Sunday.

Elefante Music Rock Project Final Performance

2009-08-10T08:33:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to the Elefante Music Rock Project for a fantastic final performance at Crossroads. I was ill, and unable to teach the second week of the camp, but Joe DeVico took over and did a great job with the students. Below is a clip of the performance, which took place on July 31st at the club in Garwood.

Elefante Music in Music Inc. Magazine

2009-08-03T14:25:00.006-04:00

Check out this great article on the store in Music Inc. magazine.

Jazz Camp Final Performance

2009-07-20T09:01:00.003-04:00

The Final Performance of the Elefante Music Jazz Camp 2009 was a success! Despite the fact that I left the cymbals at the store (oops), we kept our cool and put on a great show. Congratulations to everyone who performed at Crossroads on Friday night.

Make sure you don't miss Elefante & Friends @ Centennial Park in New Providence on Thursday, July 30, at 7:00pm. This concert will feature Al, Joe, guitar teacher Anthony Sanacore, drum teacher Mike Advensky, and special guest vocalists Caryn Elefante and Yvonne Greene. And, if you'd like to check out the next great EMU student ensemble, we'll be back at the Crossroads with the Rock Project on Friday, July 31 at 6:00pm. See you there.

Rick Henly

2009-07-15T08:45:00.002-04:00

Elefante Music is thrilled to announce the addition brass teacher Rick Henly to our top-flight roster of private teachers.

Rick Henly is currently working on his newest CD which will be available soon. Rick recently completed his Christmas CD, CHRISTMAS PRESENT, which is available with his solo CD, LOVE LIKE FIRE, at: www.rickhenly.com, www.amazon.com, and other major retail outlets. Rick is currently performing as a soloist and also as Lead Trumpet for: "America's Tenor" Michael Amante and his 14 piece orchestra; on Broadway; Charli Persip's big band, SUPERSOUND; and in varied venues across the United States.

On March 7, 2003, Rick played the American Premiere of Steve Margoshes' Ballade for Trumpet and Orchestra with the Ridgewood Symphony.

Rick was Lead Trumpet on a dozen Broadway shows, including the long-running hit, MISS SAIGON and has over 20 years experience playing Lead Trumpet on Broadway shows. He graduated from Ithaca College and earned a Masters Degree from Northwestern University. Following school, Rick auditioned and was appointed Principal Trumpet of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, a position that included a scholarship to study with the great Adolph Herseth of the Chicago Symphony. This was followed by a Fellowship to study for two summers at the prestigious Tanglewood Music Center.

His early career included performances with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Lyric Opera of Chicago. He also played on several recordings with the Chicago Symphony. While in Chicago, Rick was also on the faculties of The American Conservatory of Music, Elmhurst College and the Preparatory Department at Northwestern University.

Called one day to fill in for an ailing lead trumpeter, Rick went to the theater to play for Meredith Willson's THE MUSIC MAN, starring Dick Van Dyke. For that production, Conductor Milton Rosenstock wrote a brilliant trumpet cadenza (based on the MINUET IN G) to end the show. Conductor Rosenstock was so impressed with Rick's rendition of the trumpet solo, that he insisted Rick come to New York and open the show on Broadway the following week.

Since MISS SAIGON, Rick has performed the on-stage 'Harry James' solo in FOSSE and substituted as Lead Trumpet on THE PRODUCERS, CABARET, THE MUSIC MAN, FOLLIES, THOU SHALT NOT, 42nd STREET, and the RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL ORCHESTRA. Rick continues to give solo demonstrations and clinics all around the country.

Rick has performed with the New York Pops, American Symphony, Brooklyn Philharmonic, Little Orchestra Society (Soloist), Liza Minnelli (Lead Trumpet), Shirley Bassey, and Frank Sinatra. Conductors with whom Rick has worked include Leonard Bernstein, Sir Georg Solti, Claudio Abbado, Andre Previn, Rafael Kubelik, Lukas Foss and Skitch Henderson

A Personal Story about Michael Jackson

2009-07-09T14:57:00.008-04:00

This post is by Joe's wife, Caryn Elefante.

From the time I was five years old I have been singing in studios all over NYC for commercials, demos and even music albums. My sister, brother and I have sung on albums for Gloria Estefan, Liza Minelli, Maureen McGovern and even soloed on the Canadian Brass Christmas album. One day, my mother got a call from our contractor booking us for a recording at the Hit Factory. We weren't allowed to know for whom we were singing and we were only allowed one parent per child. Our interest was peaked. We spent the next few days trying to figure out who this mystery recording could be for. We decided to bring three CD covers with us- Frank Sinatra (he was still alive at the time), Madonna and Michael Jackson.

We went to the studio and some guy told us we were going to be singing one word... "Childhood". He sang it for us once or twice then began recording. All we heard in the cans (headphones) were tracks with no lead vocal. We still couldn't figure out what or whom this was for. After singing the one word a few times, I saw a man behind the glass in the recording studio step forward out of the darkness with a black hat, a red shirt and a black curl in front of his face. On the talkback we heard, "Can you sing it a little more like this... Childhood" As soon as I heard the voice I grabbed my sister's hand and spoke without moving my lips "It's MICHAEL JACKSON!!!!"

I cooly sang "Childhood" about a dozen more times and the engineer thanked us and said we were done. We went back to the green room where our parents were waiting and I grabbed the Bad album cover from my mom and brought it to Michael's assistant. I asked her if she could please bring it to Michael and have him sign it. The other kids who sang with us began ripping little pieces of paper for him to sign. They were no where near as prepared as my family!!

The assistant said "Let me see what I can do", and she disappeared for about five minutes. She came back and said, "Can I have all of the kids follow me?" We followed her to a door in the Hit Factory that had a star on it and said "Jackson". We went into the room and there he was, greeting us at the door with a hand shake and a smile and telling us that it was a pleasure to meet us. Can you imagine? A pleasure to meet us?? His room was filled with some pretty strange things: life-size cut-outs of the Power Rangers, a train set, and a giant globe that rotated. He had pictures of children that he had helped attached to the country they were from.

Michael had many questions for us like if any of us went to camp for the summer. He said that he always asked his parents if he could go to summer camp because it looked like so much fun and of course they told him no!! This was right around the time when the media was questioning whether or not he had married Lisa Marie Presley. I noticed a ring on his hand and I said, "so does that ring mean you are married to Lisa Marie?" He nodded his head yes and said "shhhhhh". We chatted for a while, he signed our album cover and we went home having what I thought was the greatest day of my life.

A week or two later my mother got another call from our contractor. This time she said Michael wanted to have us back to the studio to record a Christmas song. It was July but when we got to the studio, it was decorated for the holidays. There was snow all over the ground, a tree, Santa who gave us all presents (we each got a Gameboy... tells you how long ago this was!!) and reindeer. Michael came walking right into the studio this time and didn't hide behind the glass. I guess he felt more comfortable with us this time. He taught us the song himself and stayed with us in the sound booth as we were singing it. After we recorded the song he invited our parents into the studio and had the whole thing catered. We sat around the piano as he played the piano and we all sang Christmas songs. It's just like Christmas Eve at the Elefante's (my in-laws)!!!

So on June 25th, when the whole world was in shock of Michael Jackson's death, these were the memories that all came flooding back for me.

That's Caryn all the way to the right.

Elefante Music Jazz Camp

2009-07-09T09:19:00.001-04:00

If you're interested in seeing some of our best young musicians perform in a real live jazz club, come see the Elefante Music Jazz Camp performance at Crossroads in Garwood, NJ. They'll be playing on Friday, July 17, @ 6:00pm. The 45-minute set includes music by Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Herbie Hancock, Sonny Rollins, and Horace Silver. I'm quite certain you'll be impressed with how well these students handle some very challenging music.

The Elefante Music Rock Project performance will be @ Crossroads on Friday, July 31, @ 6:00pm. We'd love to see you at either show (or both)!

The-PAC @ Elefante Music

2009-06-18T12:54:00.002-04:00

The Performing Arts Conservatory (The-PAC) is thrilled to announce the launch of their flagship school in New Providence, New Jersey, at Elefante Music on Springfield Avenue, across from McDonalds.

The-PAC is a new school for students of all ages who wish to explore their inner artist. The-PAC will offer beginner classes in acting, improv, film making, directing, cabaret performance, dancing and voice over as well as Master Classes, Broadway Seminars and Advanced Classes (by audition only).

All of The instructors at The-PAC are individuals who have successfully earned a living doing what they teach. The resumes of our faculty include film, television, regional Theater and Broadway. Matthew Arkin (Drama Desk Award nominee for his performance in The Broadway production of the Pulitzer Prize winning play Dinner with Friends) will be teaching a weekly Advanced Scene Study Class. Our Advanced Musical Theater Class will be jointly taught by David Cantor (Che in Evita on Broadway and in The National Tour) and Joe Elefante (Associate Music Director for Jersey Boys National Tour).

In addition to weekly classes, The-PAC will offer seminars on topics that range from "Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Getting Your Child Into The Business But Did Not Know Who To Ask" to "An Evening with Joe and Jim" an interview series featuring an individual who is currently working as a actor, director or film maker. The Broadway Seminar Series is a limited availability event.

In addition to The Interview session, there will be an opportunity to see The Broadway show featuring our guests are in along with a "Talk Back" or backstage tour. Keep watching for more information.

The-PAC wants to support music and the arts in our schools. Five dollars of every registration fee will be given back to our local schools in the form on a Mini-Grant for the Arts. So sure to tell us the name of your school when you register!

For more information or to get a copy of our 2009-2010 Season Course Catalog, please contact us at performingartsconservatory@gmail.com or by phone at (908) 803-1157 or at our website: www.THE-PAC.com

Additional Information Dates:

Fall Class Registration – June 25 6 am – 10 am at Elefante Music, 1790 Springfield Ave, 2nd Floor, New Providence, NJ 07974

· Fall Classes begin on September 14, 2009

Mission Statement: The Performing Arts Conservatory seeks to provide a safe and positive environment where our students and staff can explore who they are as artists. Our goal is to help each and every person to find and develop the tools and methods that best suit them as individuals. We strive to provide an artistic home for our students and staff to come back to, as they endeavor to master their craft, and continue on their artistic journey.

elefantemusic.com

2009-06-17T09:51:00.002-04:00

Hey! The Elefante Music website is now up and running. Come check us out at www.elefantemusic.com. And be sure and sign up for our regular newsletter. Thanks. See you at the store!

Under Construction...

2009-04-28T15:33:00.002-04:00

Hi! The Elefante Music website is currently getting a make over... stay tuned for more info.