Experience NOCCA

Classical Violin/Viola & Classical Brass Workshop

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

ACCEPTING 6^th  –  9^th Grade 

Designed for motivated classical violin, viola, and brass students that are preparing for competitions, NOCCA and other auditions, orchestra and band placements, and other performance opportunities. Participants will explore effective practice strategies and master performance techniques. The program features personalized coaching and targeted exercises to strengthen technical skills and refine musical interpretation. Participants will also receive instruction in the basics of music theory and ear training.

Screening Requirements: 

• Minimum of 1-2 years experience playing their instrument.
• Ability to read sheet music.
• Submission of a homemade video including both:

1. a solo piece (or a portion of a piece) from any classical music period, and 
2. one scale of their choosing

Student Requirements: Binder & pencil. Students must bring their own instrument.

Questions to be included in the application:

1. What’s your instrument?
2. How many years have you played your instrument?
3. Name of your current violin/viola or brass teacher?

Audition Prep Workshop

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

Come explore various modes of writing in a supportive community. Through in-class readings and prompts, we will experiment with the basics of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Participants will have the opportunity to write new work and revise it with the help of small group critiques and revision techniques. Writers will have the opportunity to explore various ways of sharing their work publicly, from performance to printed broadsides to recordings. 

Screening Requirements: Submit one work of creative writing, either poetry or prose. Minimum one page, maximum five pages.

Student Requirements for Class: Materials provided; laptop encouraged

The Art of the Sandwich!

Mondays/Wednesdays | 4 pm to 5:30 pm

Love sandwiches? Discover the stories and techniques behind some of the world's most iconic creations. Learn where the Reuben got its start, how to make the perfect bacon for a BLT, why the muffaletta is a New Orleans favorite, and meet the French cousin of the grilled ham and cheese. Join us for a delicious culinary workshop that's part history, part hands-on cooking, and all about great sandwiches!

Screening Requirements: Applicants must submit an essay telling us why they want to take part in this workshop and what they hope to gain from it, and a video of them cooking their favorite meal at home. This does not have to be a cinematic prize-winning effort - just show us what and how you are cooking while narrating. We want to hear you explaining your dish. 

Student Requirements for Class: All accepted students must commit to the rules and expectations of the kitchen environment as well as to the NOCCA campus, including the dress code. All accepted students should also commit to attending every class of the workshop. Students should be ON TIME and ready to learn at the start of the class. Students must come dressed in LONG PANTS (no shorts), shirt (long sleeves preferred), socks and closed toe and heel shoes (preferably non slip - sandals or slides will not be allowed), and a HEAD COVERING (ball cap or scarf). Hair must be kept up and secured tightly (no hanging ponytails or braids). Fingernails should be unpolished and trimmed short - no fake nails), no cologne or perfume, no false eyelashes, no hoops or hanging jewelry. Safety is our number one priority. 

Audition Prep - Audition Ready: Preparing to Shine!

Mondays & Wednesdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

Are you a dancer looking to attend NOCCA? Interested in auditioning for the NOCCA Dance program? Join us as we explore the foundations of dance and the dance conservatory environment with a focus on the core dance styles that are studied by the young dance artists of NOCCA. The workshop offered to 8th-11th graders, will consist of a sample of offerings from multiple areas within the NOCCA Dance curriculum, including fundamentals of: Classical Ballet, Jazz dance, Modern dance, Tap, Dance Conditioning, and Music for Dancers. 

Screening Requirements: All interested students must submit a short 1-2 minute video of themselves performing in the style of ballet, modern, jazz or contemporary dance. Video must be submitted via Acceptd along with the application.

Student Requirements: All accepted students must commit to the rules and expectations of the dance studio environment as well as NOCCA’s campus. Daily attendance is required for all participants. Attendance will be recorded each day in the attendance spreadsheet, at the top of each class. Students with 3 or more absences may be removed from the program.

Proper dance attire is required for all participating students. 

• Dance Attire Requirements:
  • Ballet: pink or flesh-tone tights, pink or flesh-tone ballet shoes (shoes and tights much match in color), black tank leotard
  • Jazz: black convertible tights, black tank leotard, black or flesh-tone jazz shoes
  • Modern: black convertible tights, black tank leotard, bare feet (no shoes, no socks)
  • Tap: black convertible tights, black tank leotard, black oxford-style (lace-up) tap shoes (no slip ons, tap shoe alternatives can be provided to students without tap shoes)

• Students will not be allowed to dance in socks. Hair must be kept up and secured tightly in a neat bun (or puff for natural, short hair), no hanging ponytails or braids. Fingernails should be trimmed short, and no jewelry should be worn.

Jazz Skill Studio Workshop - “Spiritual, Modality and Blues”

Monday/Wednesday | 4:00 – 5:30 PM

Discover the art of improvisation through the soulful language of American Spirituals, the open possibilities of modal composition, and the timeless feel of the blues. This course builds the fundamental skills every musician needs to improvise with confidence, creativity, and authentic voice.

Screening Requirements: Applicants must submit an audition video with their application that demonstrates proficiency in the following areas:

• The major scales of C, F, G, Bb, and Eb
• One selection of the applicant's choosing, including an improvised solo
• Percussionists must additionally demonstrate a swing groove and one groove of their choosing, and must exhibit a foundational understanding of music theory

Student Requirements for Class: All instruments are welcome in this course. Horn players and guitarists should plan to bring their instruments to every class, and students should have at least two years of prior music experience.

Media Arts Skill Studio Workshop! 

Mondays & Wednesdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

Students will learn basic storytelling and technical techniques as they apply to Media Literacy, Film, Audio and Animation. Students will work with faculty to create work in each of these disciplines, getting a sample of each concentration within the Media Arts Department.

Screening Requirements: Submit an original story in one of the following forms:

• 1- 2 page script or short story
• 1 minute video
• 30 second to 1 minute audio piece
• 30 second to 1 minute animatic, storyboard, or drawings

All The World’s a Stage: An Introduction to Shakespeare 

Mondays & Wednesdays| 4:00-5:30 PM

This workshop will serve as an introduction to Shakespeare and all of the ways that he has left his mark on theatre and culture. From playfully dropping some Shakespearean insults to exploring the many musical adaptations of the Bard’s work, this will be an eclectic, fun-filled dive into the work of this enduring playwright. *Note: This workshop will culminate in a performance that will necessitate outside time to memorize and prepare.

Screening Requirements: Students should submit a video of themselves answering the following questions?

• Why do you love theater?
• What is your experience in the theatre?
• What is something you love that has nothing to do with the theatre?
• What makes you want to study Shakespeare?

Sculptural Ceramic Vases & Monotypes

Mondays & Wednesdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

This dual workshop includes ceramics with Ms. Sarah House for the first 4 weeks and concludes with painting and printmaking with Ms. Zarouhie Abdalian.  

• Sculptural Ceramic Vases - During the first 4 weeks of this workshop, students will explore clay with Visual Arts Faculty Sarah House. Students will learn some basic hand building techniques to create a funky flower vase. Each class will start with a demonstration followed by individual work time and ending with a studio clean up. Students will decorate the surface with underglazes and finish with a glossy top coat of clear glaze. The work will be fired after the work has dried. Students will be able to take their finished ceramic work home before the end of the second portion of this 2 part workshop. 
• Monotypes - Learn about monotype, the “painterly print,” with Visual Arts Faculty Zarouhie Abdalian. The monotype is a hybrid process that bridges painting and printmaking. In this workshop, you will explore the intuitive and expressive possibilities of the monotype while developing 2D design skills. Various techniques will be demonstrated that allow printing by hand and with a press. You will print onto paper, creating multiple images over the workshop as you gain confidence with some of the tools and materials of printmaking.  

Screening Requirements: Please submit 1 drawing: Using a regular #2 pencil on letter-sized paper (8.5x11”), draw a still life from direct observation that includes 3 objects that are important to you. Please use value (shading) in your drawing. Also, please submit a short (2 minutes or less) video about why you are interested in coming to NOCCA.

Middle School Vocal Prep Program

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

The Middle School Vocal Prep Program is a pre-NOCCA training experience for young singers who want to grow as performers, musicians, and future high-school arts students. Designed for students in grades 7–8, this workshop gives students an introduction to the skills, expectations, and collaborative environment of NOCCA Vocal Music. Over seven weeks, students will develop healthy singing habits through age-appropriate vocal technique, breathing, posture, diction, musicianship, and performance practice. Students will prepare one or two solo songs, learn ensemble repertoire, and build the confidence to sing both independently and as part of a group. In addition to vocal training, students will receive an introduction to foundational music skills such as rhythm, note reading, basic music theory, ear training, and rehearsal etiquette. They will also explore what it means to be a successful performing-arts student: showing up prepared, working collaboratively, accepting feedback, and supporting fellow artists. This program is for middle school singers who love to sing and are curious about what it is like to study Vocal Music at NOCCA in high school. No prior formal vocal training is required—only curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to learn.

Screening Requirements: Please submit a video through Acceptd of yourself singing one song of your choice that best represents your current vocal ability. Piano accompaniment is encouraged but not required.

Student Requirements for Class: All music will be provided. Students should bring a binder and pencil to every class and are expected to attend all class meetings.

Audition Prep Workshop - Classical Violin/Viola & Classical Brass Workshop

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

Designed for motivated classical violin, viola, and brass students that are preparing for competitions, NOCCA and other auditions, orchestra and band placements, and other performance opportunities. Participants will explore effective practice strategies and master performance techniques. The program features personalized coaching and targeted exercises to strengthen technical skills and refine musical interpretation. Participants will also receive instruction in the basics of music theory and ear training.

Screening Requirements: 

• Minimum of 1-2 years experience playing their instrument.
• Ability to read sheet music.
• Submission of a homemade video including both:

1. a solo piece (or a portion of a piece) from any classical music period, and 
2. one scale of their choosing

Student Requirements: Binder & pencil. Students must bring their own instrument.

Questions to be included in the application:

1. What’s your instrument?
2. How many years have you played your instrument?
3. Name of your current violin/viola or brass teacher?

Audition Prep Workshop

Mondays & Wednesdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

Come explore various modes of writing in a supportive community. Through in-class readings and prompts, we will experiment with the basics of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Participants will have the opportunity to write new work and revise it with the help of small group critiques and revision techniques. Writers will have the opportunity to explore various ways of sharing their work publicly, from performance to printed broadsides to recordings. 

Screening Requirements: Submit one work of creative writing, either poetry or prose. Minimum one page, maximum five pages.

Student Requirements for Class: Materials provided; laptop encouraged

Audition Prep - Ready, Set, Hit Submit!

Tuesdays/Thursdays 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Dreaming of becoming a NOCCA Culinary Arts student? Join our 7-week workshop and gain the skills, confidence, and guidance you need for a successful NOCCA Culinary Arts application and audition.

• Learn essential kitchen fundamentals
• Practice hands-on culinary techniques
• Prepare your audition with confidence
• Submit your application ready to shine!

Your culinary journey starts here. Ready, set... hit submit!

Screening Requirements: Applicants must submit an essay telling us why they want to take part in this workshop and what they hope to gain from it, and a video of them cooking their favorite meal at home. This does not have to be a cinematic prize-winning effort - just show us what and how you are cooking while narrating. We want to hear you explaining your dish. 

Student Requirements for Class: All accepted students must commit to the rules and expectations of the kitchen environment as well as to the NOCCA campus, including the dress code. All accepted students should also commit to attending every class of the workshop. Students should be ON TIME and ready to learn at the start of the class. Students must come dressed in LONG PANTS (no shorts), shirt (long sleeves preferred), socks and closed-toe and heel shoes (preferably non-slip - sandals or slides will not be allowed), and a HEAD COVERING (ball cap or scarf). Hair must be kept up and secured tightly (no hanging ponytails or braids). Fingernails should be unpolished and trimmed short (no fake nails), no cologne or perfume, no false eyelashes, no hoops or hanging jewelry. Safety is our number one priority.

Behind the scenes in E.P. Design

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

The workshop will consist of a sample of offerings from multiple areas within the

E.P. Design curriculum. It will include fundamentals of scenic, lighting, costume,

and fashion design. The workshop will also cover aspects of technology such as

projection and sound for the theater. There will also be hands-on components

with projects in both the scenic and costume shops. 

Screening Requirements: 

• Brief letter or video submission describing why the student is interested in both NOCCA as a whole and specifically the E.P. Design Department
• Samples of any visual artwork or pictures of any artistic or theatrical work that they have created
• Resume of any entertainment production or creative work that they have been a part of, as well as any hobbies, special interests, or specific skills that they have.

Student Requirements for Class: Students will not be required to bring any specific materials or supplies for the workshop. The department will provide all materials. Students will need to abide by the E.P. Design dress code for safety purposes, and these specifics will be covered during the first class.

“Acing Your Audition”

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 4 pm – 5:30 pm

This course prepares students to walk into any audition room ready to shine. Through realistic mock auditions, students sharpen the knowledge, skills, and techniques that separate a good audition from a great one, building the familiarity and confidence to perform at their best when it truly counts.

Screening Requirements: Applicants must submit an audition video with their application that demonstrates proficiency in the following areas:

• The major scales of C, F, G, Bb, and Eb
• One selection of the applicant's choosing, including an improvised solo
• Percussionists must additionally demonstrate a swing groove and one groove of their choosing, and must exhibit a foundational understanding of music theory

Student Requirements for Class: All instruments are welcome. Horn players and guitarists should bring their instruments to every class.

Media Arts Audition Prep Workshop! 

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

Students will learn basic storytelling and technical techniques as they apply to Media Literacy, Film, Audio and Animation. Students will work with faculty to create work in each of these disciplines, getting a sample of each concentration within the Media Arts Department.

Screening Requirements: Submit an original story in one of the following forms:

• 1- 2 page script or short story
• 1 minute video
• 30 second to 1 minute audio piece
• 30 second to 1 minute animatic, storyboard, or drawings

Audition Prep Workshop

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

• Drama Cohort - October 20-November 10
• Musical Theatre Cohort - November 12 - December 10

Whether you are interested in auditioning for NOCCA, a student film or a local play, this workshop, focusing on audition preparation will help you feel confident and prepared. We will give valuable insight into NOCCA’s audition process, including monologue/song coaching and improvisation practice. Students will also have the opportunity to get feedback on their work prior to auditions. 

Screening Requirements: Students should submit a video of themselves answering the following questions?

• Why do you love theater?
• What is your experience in the theatre?
• What is something you love that has nothing to do with the theatre?

Audition Prep Workshop - Charcoal drawing + Exploring Mixed Media and Collage 

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 4:00-5:30 PM

This dual workshop includes a session on charcoal drawing with Mr. Terry DeRoche on Tuesdays and mixed media with Mr. Keith Perelli on Thursdays.

• Charcoal Still Life Drawing - Students will start by arranging still life objects and add dramatic lighting to help generate compositions to work from. Then, lightly sketching with vine charcoal, they will lay down the base of outlines and values upon which they will build towards a richer and detailed drawing. No experience drawing with charcoal? No problem. Bring an open mind and willing spirit and watch the magic you create happen.
• Exploring Mixed Media and Collage (Focus on drawing from observation) - Students will explore fun and creative techniques with charcoal, collage and oil pastel media. We will be drawing from dynamic still life setups of your creation and the self portrait. We will layer and accent our work with collage and color media. This is a great class to push your creativity and experimentation with media. Great for the beginner to more advanced student building their art portfolio.

Screening Requirements:  Please submit 1 drawing: Using a regular #2 pencil on letter sized paper (8.5x11”), draw a still-life from direct observation that includes 3 objects that are important to you. Please use value (shading) in your drawing. Also, please submit a short (2 minutes or less) video about why you are interested in coming to NOCCA.

Student Requirements: All materials provided

Vocal Audition Workshop  

Mondays & Wednesdays| 4:00-5:30 PM

Are you preparing to audition for NOCCA Vocal Music? The NOCCA Vocal Audition Workshop is designed for students who want focused guidance, practical experience, and greater confidence heading into the audition process. Students will receive instruction in healthy vocal technique, song selection, musical interpretation, performance presence, and basic musicianship. Throughout the seven-week workshop, students will prepare and refine two contrasting solo selections while receiving individualized feedback from NOCCA Vocal Music faculty. Students will also participate in mock auditions and learn what to expect during a NOCCA Vocal Music audition, including how to enter the room, introduce themselves, work with accompaniment, communicate effectively, and recover from mistakes with confidence. The workshop will also include introductory music theory and sight-reading skills, including note reading, rhythm, key signatures, and basic ear-training exercises—to help students feel prepared for the musical components of the audition process. This workshop is ideal for students in grades 8–11 who are considering applying to NOCCA Vocal Music and want to present their strongest, most authentic audition.

Screening Requirements: Please submit a video through Acceptd of yourself singing one song of your choice that best represents your current vocal ability. Piano accompaniment is encouraged but not required.

Student Requirements for Class: All music and workshop materials will be provided. Students should bring a binder and pencil to every class and are expected to attend all class meetings.