In June 2024, we will celebrate 46 years of preserving the arts and traditions of Scotland.
When the first Ohio Scottish Arts School was held in 1978, no one knew how far we would progress over the years. The first classes were held in dancing, drumming and piping. Fifty eight students attended that year. In 2023, 120 students from 17 states, Canada and Scotland attended and took classes in dancing, fiddling, harping, piping, and snare, tenor/bass drumming.
These classes focus on basic skills, technique, theory and exposure to new material. This focus allows students to develop a strong foundation. Our instructors are top notch and well respected in their fields. They make themselves available to students during classes with individual attention and after class hours for informal discussion and advice. Each student is given an evaluation by their instructors to use at home as a tool for continued growth!
Class time is vigorous with two 3 hour sessions per day, but the evening also allows for informal learning. Students learn from each other in casual jams and instructors often join in these magical, musical moments. The talent that is reflected by these students and instructors is awe inspiring!
Students have an opportunity to experience other disciplines by visiting classes. Harpers have been known to sit in on a dancing class to get the rhythm just right, pipers play for the dancers. This helps all to appreciate and learn about the other arts represented at OSAS.
During this dynamic week one can observe student skills being improved, younger students helping older students with a difficult piece of music or students always playing their instruments or dancing. The commitment to their arts is amazing. It is incredible to be part of this week and students aged 10 to adult never seem to mind giving up a week of their summer to continue the arts and traditions of Scotland.
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS
The OHIO SCOTTISH ARTS SCHOOL of The Scottish-American Cultural Society of Ohio, Inc. admits students of any race, color, age, sex, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, sex, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarships and loan programs and athletic or other school administered programs.