American School of Music with George Mason

Violin lessons for ages 6-10

The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is proud to announce the beginning the American School of Music.

Led by George Mason, students will be introduced to the Mark O’ Connor method which employs classic violin technique and theory based on traditional American music to engage and motivate young students. The rich musical heritage of America serves as the focal point for this method as students learn skills such as reading music but also improvisational techniques and develop a deep appreciation for our country’s music.

The goal of the Mark O’ Connor method is that young people everywhere will fall in love with playing music.

• Students will meet weekly in small class settings and then attend jam sessions once a month.
• Concerts will be given at the conclusion of the semester.
• Class offerings will follow school calendars and closely as possible.
• The program is recommended for children and youth in beginning or intermediate violin.
• Registration is limited . The class will meet on Wednesdays from 5 to 6 PM.
• Jams will be once a month on Saturdays.

There will be an orientation Wednesday, September 5 at 5pm.

Costs: $20 non –refundable registration fee.

$50 per month, includes monthly jam and concert fees.

Students will be responsible for ordering the Mark 0’ Connor Method Book I

and bringing their instrument and a collapsible music stand.

**Please contact Tonya Hays, WINGS Director, to register for the class. 228-897-6039 or tshays777@aol.com**

Biography...

George Mason began playing the violin at the age of 8. He was playing professionally by the age of 9 and fulltime by age 14. He began touring with country singer Tommy Overstreet at the age of 17. At 19 he was playing with country artists,Freddy Hart, Johnny Duncan, Del Reeves, Charlie Lovin, and Tommy Cash to name a few. After he obtained his college degree he became the band lead/arranger and musical director for the Osmond Brothers. He has also written and arranged music for Andy Williams, Bob Hope and others. In addition George has played with Bobby Vinton, The Gatlin Brothers, Pattie Page and others.

He served as guitarist for the Lawrence Welk Orchestra and continues to tour with them. George is gifted teacher and has taught for over 25 years. He has conducted fiddle workshops for the Bear Creek Bluegrass Festival and served as a fiddle contest judge. George has composed and arranged music for the Gulf Coast Symphony Youth Orchestra as well as the orchestra. Most recently he created music charts for the Ronnie Kole concert at the Beau Rivage.