Performing Arts
As a result of a CHCA Fine Arts education, students recognize that music, theatre and dance are gifts from God and as such should be used to glorify and serve Him. Students are encouraged to develop a lifelong love of the arts through participation in performance and study. We strive to nurture and encourage students of all ages to pursue performing opportunities with confidence and knowledge. Audiences within and outside of the school provide opportunities for performing outreach. Our acclaimed programs provide countless opportunities for students in the musical, theatrical, and dance arenas. Students receive both challenge and support in pursuit of success in all those, and the outcome? Confident, well-rounded student performers.
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Dance
CHCA Dance Academy is not just an after-school program; it is a dance academy exclusively for our CHCA students.
We offer a variety of levels that include technique and competitive options. Our professional faculty features instructors who have danced and choreographed professionally throughout the United States and carry with them national and regional awards for choreography and performance.
Early Learning Program & Lower School
Upper School
Curricular Offerings
Dance as a Fine Art (Gr 9-12)
Dance as PE (Gr 9-12)
Extracurricular Offerings
CHCA Dance Academy (PK3-Gr 12)
Summer Offerings
Stay Strong Dance Intensives (Gr 7-12)
Dance Faculty
Sara Potts
Titles:
Classroom Teacher-Vocal and Dance
Degrees:
M.M., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
B.A., Otterbein College
B.A., Otterbein College
Email:
Biography:
Sara is a member of the Ohio Music Educators Association (OMEA) and the Ohio Choral Directors Association (OCDA). She served for six years on the OCDA board as Summer Conference Co-Chair and Southwest Region Chair. She regularly attends OMEA and OCDA conferences. While at Otterbein, Sarah earned numerous honors, including the Grabill-Shackson Award, Presser Foundation Scholar, and the Thelma Zelner Choral Music Award. Outside CHCA, she serves as the adult Chancel Choir director at Sharonville United Methodist Church and Preschool Music teacher at Northminster Children's Co-op. Sara's husband Brian is also a choral director; they have three children.
Sara is a member of the Ohio Music Educators Association (OMEA) and the Ohio Choral Directors Association (OCDA). She served for six years on the OCDA board as Summer Conference Co-Chair and Southwest Region Chair. She regularly attends OMEA and OCDA conferences. While at Otterbein, Sarah earned numerous honors, including the Grabill-Shackson Award, Presser Foundation Scholar, and the Thelma Zelner Choral Music Award. Outside CHCA, she serves as the adult Chancel Choir director at Sharonville United Methodist Church and Preschool Music teacher at Northminster Children's Co-op. Sara's husband Brian is also a choral director; they have three children.
CHCA Dance Academy
- Judy McCreary, Director
- Angela Baker
- Thomas Bell
- Melissa Kidd
Armleder School
Extracurricular Offerings
FaithWalkers Dance Team (Gr 1-3 and Gr 4-6)
CHCA Dance Academy (PK3-Gr 12)
Summer Offerings
Moana and Friends Dance Camp (Gr K-2)
So You Think You Can Dance Youth Camp (Gr 4-6)
Stay Strong Dance Intensives (Gr 3-6)
Faithwalkers Dance Team
LaGina Burton
Titles:
2nd Grade Teacher
Degrees:
B.A., Fisk University
Email:
CHCA Dance Academy
- Judy McCreary, Director
- Angela Baker
- Thomas Bell
- Melissa Kidd
General Music
General Music provides fundamental music processes and opportunities for our students to learn, create and perform. Our students learn by doing as they sing, play instruments, move to music as well as read and notate music. This exploration is done independently and with others and provides the building blocks of their music education through a comprehensive and sequential program. With the skills learned in General Music, our students are well prepared to continue on to our Instrumental and Vocal Music programs.
Early Learning Program
Curricular Offerings
Music (Ages 2-4)
Performance Opportunities
Gr PK Christmas Program
Extracurricular Offerings
Private Music Lesson Program (PK3 - Gr 8)
General Music Faculty
Carolyn Hill
Titles:
Classroom Teacher, Music Lesson Provider
Degrees:
B.M., Wright State University
B.Ed., Kentucky Chrisitian College
B.Ed., Kentucky Chrisitian College
Email:
Biography:
Carolyn is a member of the May Festival Chorus and Ensemble. Outside of CHCA, she serves as children's minister at Connections Christian Church, and also is the wife of a minister.
Carolyn is a member of the May Festival Chorus and Ensemble. Outside of CHCA, she serves as children's minister at Connections Christian Church, and also is the wife of a minister.
Private Music Lesson Program
Lydia Woodin
Titles:
Music Lesson Director
Degrees:
D.M.A., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
M.M., University of Cincinnati
B.M., University of Alabama
M.M., University of Cincinnati
B.M., University of Alabama
Email:
Biography:
Lydia is a member of the American String Teachers Association and the Suzuki Association of the Americas. She has training in both the Suzuki and Sassmannshaus Tradition methods. Additionally, Dr. Woodin attended the American String Teachers Association Conference in 2009 and the Starling-Delay Symposium on Violin Studies at the Juilliard School in 2011 & 2013. She is a member of the Violin Faculty for the Preparatory Department at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. She is also an active performer and has played countless solo and chamber music recitals in the US, Italy, and China. She has extensive experience playing with professional orchestra, opera, and ballet companies throughout the United States, and has performed under notable conductors Yoel Levi, Louis Lane, Benjamin Zander, Mark Gibson, Awadagin Pratt, Hugh Wolfe, and Paavo Järvi.
Lydia is a member of the American String Teachers Association and the Suzuki Association of the Americas. She has training in both the Suzuki and Sassmannshaus Tradition methods. Additionally, Dr. Woodin attended the American String Teachers Association Conference in 2009 and the Starling-Delay Symposium on Violin Studies at the Juilliard School in 2011 & 2013. She is a member of the Violin Faculty for the Preparatory Department at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. She is also an active performer and has played countless solo and chamber music recitals in the US, Italy, and China. She has extensive experience playing with professional orchestra, opera, and ballet companies throughout the United States, and has performed under notable conductors Yoel Levi, Louis Lane, Benjamin Zander, Mark Gibson, Awadagin Pratt, Hugh Wolfe, and Paavo Järvi.
Robin Albus
Titles:
Music Lesson Provider
Degrees:
B.S., James Madison University
Email:
Biography:
Robin has taught piano for 17 years and has been a private piano teacher at CHCA since 2003. She also earned the National Guild of Piano Teachers High School diploma. Most recently, she launched the Wunderkeys program at CHCA, which offers a musical experience on the keyboard for 3-5 year olds.
Robin has taught piano for 17 years and has been a private piano teacher at CHCA since 2003. She also earned the National Guild of Piano Teachers High School diploma. Most recently, she launched the Wunderkeys program at CHCA, which offers a musical experience on the keyboard for 3-5 year olds.
Jane Brumbaugh
Titles:
Music Lesson Provider
Degrees:
M.Ed., Villanova University
B.A., Ursinus College
B.A., Ursinus College
B.A., Ursinus College
B.A., Ursinus College
Email:
Biography:
Jane has a certificate in Piano Pedagogy from Northern Kentucky University and has taught piano at CHCA for more than 15 years.
Jane has a certificate in Piano Pedagogy from Northern Kentucky University and has taught piano at CHCA for more than 15 years.
Lower School
Curricular Offerings
Music (Gr KPrep - 5)
Performance Opportunities
Gr K-1 Christmas Program
Gr 2-3 Christmas Musical
Gr 4-6 Christmas Concert
Gr 4-6 Spring Choral Concert
Extracurricular Offerings
ArtBeat Festival Choir (Gr K-2)
ArtBeat Festival Choir (Gr 3-4)
Melody Makers (Gr 3-4)
Private Music Lesson Program (PK3 - Gr 8)
Private Music Lessons (Gr 5-12)
String Ensemble (Gr K-4)
Vocal Ensemble (Gr 2-3)
General Music Faculty
Della Enns
Titles:
Classroom Teacher-Vocal
Degrees:
M.M., University of Cincinnati
B.M., Bob Jones University
B.M., Bob Jones University
Email:
Biography:
Della is a member of OMEA (Ohio Music Educators Association), National Fine Arts Festival of Assemblies of God, and the National Guild of Piano Teachers. She also earned Nashville Independent Musicians Instrumental Artist of the Year, Best in Show-Art and Soul on Vine Choir-Cincinnati Reds Parade and First Prize- Composition Competition- University Press. She served as a judge in the Piano Division and Songwriting Division in the National Fine Arts Festival, a pianist for the Middletown Symphony and the Cincinnati Ballet, and studio instructor and coach at the Musical Arts Center. She is a regular performer at the Live at Lunch series at Christ Cathedral. Della has composed three albums: After His Own Heart, Origins, and Beautiful Still.
Della is a member of OMEA (Ohio Music Educators Association), National Fine Arts Festival of Assemblies of God, and the National Guild of Piano Teachers. She also earned Nashville Independent Musicians Instrumental Artist of the Year, Best in Show-Art and Soul on Vine Choir-Cincinnati Reds Parade and First Prize- Composition Competition- University Press. She served as a judge in the Piano Division and Songwriting Division in the National Fine Arts Festival, a pianist for the Middletown Symphony and the Cincinnati Ballet, and studio instructor and coach at the Musical Arts Center. She is a regular performer at the Live at Lunch series at Christ Cathedral. Della has composed three albums: After His Own Heart, Origins, and Beautiful Still.
Kim Cassity
Titles:
Classroom Teacher
Degrees:
M.M., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
B.A., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
B.A., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
Email:
Biography:
As a musician, Kim has performed for former President George Bush and actress Celeste Holm. She has taught in the CCM Prep Department and Eastern Kentucky University's summer program. She has also earned Superior Ratings and Finalist in several piano competitions. Professional conferences she has attended include the Children's Pastors Conference, the Orange Conference, the Global Leadership Summit, and Team Church. Kim has directed the Melody Maker Choir at several community venues, including singing the National Anthem at several Cincinnati Reds games. She recorded an album titled Window of Mercy and for 13 years was the band leader at Montgomery Community Church.
As a musician, Kim has performed for former President George Bush and actress Celeste Holm. She has taught in the CCM Prep Department and Eastern Kentucky University's summer program. She has also earned Superior Ratings and Finalist in several piano competitions. Professional conferences she has attended include the Children's Pastors Conference, the Orange Conference, the Global Leadership Summit, and Team Church. Kim has directed the Melody Maker Choir at several community venues, including singing the National Anthem at several Cincinnati Reds games. She recorded an album titled Window of Mercy and for 13 years was the band leader at Montgomery Community Church.
Private Music Lesson Program
Dr. Lydia Woodin, Director
Lydia Woodin
Titles:
Music Lesson Director
Degrees:
D.M.A., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
M.M., University of Cincinnati
B.M., University of Alabama
M.M., University of Cincinnati
B.M., University of Alabama
Email:
Biography:
Lydia is a member of the American String Teachers Association and the Suzuki Association of the Americas. She has training in both the Suzuki and Sassmannshaus Tradition methods. Additionally, Dr. Woodin attended the American String Teachers Association Conference in 2009 and the Starling-Delay Symposium on Violin Studies at the Juilliard School in 2011 & 2013. She is a member of the Violin Faculty for the Preparatory Department at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. She is also an active performer and has played countless solo and chamber music recitals in the US, Italy, and China. She has extensive experience playing with professional orchestra, opera, and ballet companies throughout the United States, and has performed under notable conductors Yoel Levi, Louis Lane, Benjamin Zander, Mark Gibson, Awadagin Pratt, Hugh Wolfe, and Paavo Järvi.
Lydia is a member of the American String Teachers Association and the Suzuki Association of the Americas. She has training in both the Suzuki and Sassmannshaus Tradition methods. Additionally, Dr. Woodin attended the American String Teachers Association Conference in 2009 and the Starling-Delay Symposium on Violin Studies at the Juilliard School in 2011 & 2013. She is a member of the Violin Faculty for the Preparatory Department at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. She is also an active performer and has played countless solo and chamber music recitals in the US, Italy, and China. She has extensive experience playing with professional orchestra, opera, and ballet companies throughout the United States, and has performed under notable conductors Yoel Levi, Louis Lane, Benjamin Zander, Mark Gibson, Awadagin Pratt, Hugh Wolfe, and Paavo Järvi.
Robin Albus
Robin Albus
Titles:
Music Lesson Provider
Degrees:
B.S., James Madison University
Email:
Biography:
Robin has taught piano for 17 years and has been a private piano teacher at CHCA since 2003. She also earned the National Guild of Piano Teachers High School diploma. Most recently, she launched the Wunderkeys program at CHCA, which offers a musical experience on the keyboard for 3-5 year olds.
Robin has taught piano for 17 years and has been a private piano teacher at CHCA since 2003. She also earned the National Guild of Piano Teachers High School diploma. Most recently, she launched the Wunderkeys program at CHCA, which offers a musical experience on the keyboard for 3-5 year olds.
Jane Brumbaugh
Carolyn Hill
Carolyn Hill
Titles:
Classroom Teacher, Music Lesson Provider
Degrees:
B.M., Wright State University
B.Ed., Kentucky Chrisitian College
B.Ed., Kentucky Chrisitian College
Email:
Biography:
Carolyn is a member of the May Festival Chorus and Ensemble. Outside of CHCA, she serves as children's minister at Connections Christian Church, and also is the wife of a minister.
Carolyn is a member of the May Festival Chorus and Ensemble. Outside of CHCA, she serves as children's minister at Connections Christian Church, and also is the wife of a minister.
Michaela Luchka
Michaela Hibbard
Titles:
Music Lesson Provider
Degrees:
M.M., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
B.M., DePaul University
B.M., DePaul University
Biography:
Michaela is a freelance cellist in Greater Cincinnati, teaching private cello lessons and group classes in Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati since 2008. In addition to keeping a busy teaching schedule, Michaela enjoys performing with area orchestras, including the Blue Ash Montgomery Symphony and the Dayton Philharmonic. She received a Bachelor of Music degree from DePaul University with Stephen Baldserton and a Master of Music degree from the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati with Lee Fiser. Aside from music, Michaela loves the Cincinnati Reds and would someday like to visit all 30 Ballparks and has been to 9 parks so far! Her favorites so far are GABP, AT&T Park and Comercia Park.
Michaela is a freelance cellist in Greater Cincinnati, teaching private cello lessons and group classes in Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati since 2008. In addition to keeping a busy teaching schedule, Michaela enjoys performing with area orchestras, including the Blue Ash Montgomery Symphony and the Dayton Philharmonic. She received a Bachelor of Music degree from DePaul University with Stephen Baldserton and a Master of Music degree from the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati with Lee Fiser. Aside from music, Michaela loves the Cincinnati Reds and would someday like to visit all 30 Ballparks and has been to 9 parks so far! Her favorites so far are GABP, AT&T Park and Comercia Park.
Jose Mangual
Jose Mangual
Titles:
Classroom Teacher-Instrumental, Music Lesson Provider
Degrees:
B.A., Conservatorio de Musica de Puerto Rico
Email:
Biography:
José has performed with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, May Festival, Cincinnati Pops, Cincinnati Opera, Dayton Philharmonic, Louisville Symphony, West Virginia Symphony, and Blue Ash Symphony, among others. In the summer, he was part of the premier performance of the Seven Hills Brass Ensemble, a Cincinnati-based group of talented brass players. He is also a founding member of Son del Caribe, one of Cincinnati's premier salsa bands, and is a member of the American Federation of Musicians. In his current position at CHCA, José is a founding member of the Electric Jazz Orchestra and has an active Trombone Studio at CHCA. He had his conducting debut at CHCA for the production of the musical Anything Goes, for which the orchestra was awarded a Cappie for best orchestra in a musical, and since, he has earned multiple Cappie Awards for Best Orchestra in a Musical. José was born and raised in Carolina, Puerto Rico, and in his free time he enjoys playing dominos with friends and eating good Puerto Rican food.
José has performed with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, May Festival, Cincinnati Pops, Cincinnati Opera, Dayton Philharmonic, Louisville Symphony, West Virginia Symphony, and Blue Ash Symphony, among others. In the summer, he was part of the premier performance of the Seven Hills Brass Ensemble, a Cincinnati-based group of talented brass players. He is also a founding member of Son del Caribe, one of Cincinnati's premier salsa bands, and is a member of the American Federation of Musicians. In his current position at CHCA, José is a founding member of the Electric Jazz Orchestra and has an active Trombone Studio at CHCA. He had his conducting debut at CHCA for the production of the musical Anything Goes, for which the orchestra was awarded a Cappie for best orchestra in a musical, and since, he has earned multiple Cappie Awards for Best Orchestra in a Musical. José was born and raised in Carolina, Puerto Rico, and in his free time he enjoys playing dominos with friends and eating good Puerto Rican food.
Armleder School
Curricular Offerings
Music (Gr PK-6)
Steel Pans (Gr 4-6)
Performance Opportunities
Christmas Concert
Spring Concert
Extracurricular Offerings
Celebration Choir (Gr 3-6)
General Music Faculty
Joel Rhodes
Titles:
Classroom Teacher
Degrees:
B.M., West Virginia University
Email:
Biography:
Joel is a member of Ohio Music Educators Association, the American Orff-Schulwerk Association, and the Greater Cincinnati Orff-Schulwerk Chapter. He has also completed all three levels of the Orff-Schulwerk teacher training course at the Eastman School of Music.
Joel is a member of Ohio Music Educators Association, the American Orff-Schulwerk Association, and the Greater Cincinnati Orff-Schulwerk Chapter. He has also completed all three levels of the Orff-Schulwerk teacher training course at the Eastman School of Music.
Instrumental Music
In grade 5 our students begin Instrumental Music and have the option to choose either band or strings. As they progress through the Instrumental Program, they have expanded opportunities to study, experience, and perform different music genres and styles, being exposed to a varied repertoire of instrumental literature. Our students are taught the importance of both technique and expression by our experienced faculty, many who are also professional musicians who perform regularly individually and with many different groups.
Lower School
Curricular Offerings
Gr 5-6:
Band
Strings
Performance Opportunities
Gr 5-6 Christmas Concert
Gr 5-6 Spring Band Concert
Gr 5-6 Spring String Fling
Extracurricular Offerings
Genesis Jazz (Gr 6-8)
Premier Pops (Gr 6-8)
Private Music Lesson Program (PK3 - Gr 8)
Private Music Lessons (onsite, independent instructors) (Gr 5-12)
Strings Club (Gr 5-8)
Summer Offerings
Beginning Band Workshop (Gr 5-6)
Intermediate-Advanced Band Workshop (Gr 6-8)
Summer Strings Camp - Beginner & Advanced (Gr 5-8)
Instrumental Music Faculty
Andrew Hartman
Titles:
Classroom Teacher-Instrumental
Degrees:
B.A., The Ohio State University
B.A., The Ohio State University
B.A., The Ohio State University
Email:
Biography:
Andrew is a member of the Ohio Music Education Association, the National Association for Music Education, and the Percussive Arts Society. He teaches drumline for marching band during summer band camps. He has served as a church musician for 14 years, providing drums and percussion for Forest Chapel United Methodist Church, Northminster Presbyterian Church, and All Saints Catholic Church. In 2014, Andrew won the Ohio State University James Moore Percussion, and he performed with the Ohio Military Band and was a featured soloist in 2010 and 2015.
Andrew is a member of the Ohio Music Education Association, the National Association for Music Education, and the Percussive Arts Society. He teaches drumline for marching band during summer band camps. He has served as a church musician for 14 years, providing drums and percussion for Forest Chapel United Methodist Church, Northminster Presbyterian Church, and All Saints Catholic Church. In 2014, Andrew won the Ohio State University James Moore Percussion, and he performed with the Ohio Military Band and was a featured soloist in 2010 and 2015.
Amy Macy
Titles:
Classroom Teacher-Strings
Degrees:
M.M., Temple University
B.M., The New School
B.M., The New School
Email:
Biography:
Amy came to CHCA from Zimbabwe, where she had lived for four years teaching strings and coaching chamber music. Amy is a member of the American String Teachers Association, the Suzuki Association of the Americas, and the National Association for Music Education. In 2016 Amy launched a European Suzuki Association Teacher Training Program in Zimbabwe. She also performed at the Harare International Arts Festival. She has been a cellist in the West Virginia Symphony and is a registered Suzuki Violin (Books 1-4) and Cello (Books 1-5) teacher through the Suzuki Association of the Americas.
Amy came to CHCA from Zimbabwe, where she had lived for four years teaching strings and coaching chamber music. Amy is a member of the American String Teachers Association, the Suzuki Association of the Americas, and the National Association for Music Education. In 2016 Amy launched a European Suzuki Association Teacher Training Program in Zimbabwe. She also performed at the Harare International Arts Festival. She has been a cellist in the West Virginia Symphony and is a registered Suzuki Violin (Books 1-4) and Cello (Books 1-5) teacher through the Suzuki Association of the Americas.
Upper School
Curricular Offerings
| Gr 7-8: Band | Gr 9-12: Concert Band |
Performance Opportunities
Homecoming Tailgate (Gr 9-12)
Cintered Electric Strings & Steel Drum Band Concert (Gr 9-12)
Sacred Music Concert (Gr 9-12)
Christmas Concert (Gr 7-8)
EJO and Choirs Christmas Concert (Gr 9-12)
ArtBeat (Gr 7-12)
Symphony Orchestra Spring Concert (Gr 9-12)
Band Concert (Gr 7-8)
Spring String Fling (Gr 7-8)
Genesis Jazz/Steel Drum Band/Lab Band/Electric Jazz Orchestra Concert (Gr 7-12)
Electric Jazz Orchestra Spring Concert (Gr 9-12)
Extracurricular Offerings
Chapel Band (Gr 7-8)
Chapel Band (Gr 9-12)
Genesis Jazz (Gr 6-8)
Pit Orchestra (Gr 9-12)
Premier Pops (Gr 6-8)
Strings Club (Gr 6-8)
Private Music Lesson Program (PK3 - Gr 8)
Private Music Lessons (onsite, independent instructors) (Gr 5-12)
Summer Offerings
Intermediate-Advanced Band Workshop (Gr 6-8)
Summer Strings Camp - Beginner & Advanced (Gr 5-8)
Instrumental Music Faculty
Dan Grantham
Titles:
Instrumental Music Director, Classroom Teacher-Instrumental
Degrees:
D.M.A., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
M.M., University of Cincinnati
B.A., Evangel University
M.M., University of Cincinnati
B.A., Evangel University
Email:
Biography:
Dan is a member of the Ohio Music Educators Association, the International Trumpet Guild, the College of Music Society, and the American Federation of Musicians. He is also a member of the Peninsula Music Festival Orchestra, Middletown Symphony, Kentucky Symphony Orchestra, and the Canterbury Brass. Dan serves as music director of the Seven Hills Brass and has performed regularly with the Dayton Philharmonic, Springfield Symphony Orchestra, and Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra. In addition to teaching at CHCA, Dan was trumpet professor at the University of Dayton, where he taught applied lessons, conducted the trumpet ensemble, and performed with the Faculty Brass Quintet. He toured Europe multiple times with the American Sinfonietta and Euro Brass. In 2012, Dan also performed in the World Choir Games. Dan has earned numerous national and international awards and honors over the years for both his solo work as well as ensemble.
Dan is a member of the Ohio Music Educators Association, the International Trumpet Guild, the College of Music Society, and the American Federation of Musicians. He is also a member of the Peninsula Music Festival Orchestra, Middletown Symphony, Kentucky Symphony Orchestra, and the Canterbury Brass. Dan serves as music director of the Seven Hills Brass and has performed regularly with the Dayton Philharmonic, Springfield Symphony Orchestra, and Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra. In addition to teaching at CHCA, Dan was trumpet professor at the University of Dayton, where he taught applied lessons, conducted the trumpet ensemble, and performed with the Faculty Brass Quintet. He toured Europe multiple times with the American Sinfonietta and Euro Brass. In 2012, Dan also performed in the World Choir Games. Dan has earned numerous national and international awards and honors over the years for both his solo work as well as ensemble.
Jose Mangual
Titles:
Classroom Teacher-Instrumental, Music Lesson Provider
Degrees:
B.A., Conservatorio de Musica de Puerto Rico
Email:
Biography:
José has performed with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, May Festival, Cincinnati Pops, Cincinnati Opera, Dayton Philharmonic, Louisville Symphony, West Virginia Symphony, and Blue Ash Symphony, among others. In the summer, he was part of the premier performance of the Seven Hills Brass Ensemble, a Cincinnati-based group of talented brass players. He is also a founding member of Son del Caribe, one of Cincinnati's premier salsa bands, and is a member of the American Federation of Musicians. In his current position at CHCA, José is a founding member of the Electric Jazz Orchestra and has an active Trombone Studio at CHCA. He had his conducting debut at CHCA for the production of the musical Anything Goes, for which the orchestra was awarded a Cappie for best orchestra in a musical, and since, he has earned multiple Cappie Awards for Best Orchestra in a Musical. José was born and raised in Carolina, Puerto Rico, and in his free time he enjoys playing dominos with friends and eating good Puerto Rican food.
José has performed with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, May Festival, Cincinnati Pops, Cincinnati Opera, Dayton Philharmonic, Louisville Symphony, West Virginia Symphony, and Blue Ash Symphony, among others. In the summer, he was part of the premier performance of the Seven Hills Brass Ensemble, a Cincinnati-based group of talented brass players. He is also a founding member of Son del Caribe, one of Cincinnati's premier salsa bands, and is a member of the American Federation of Musicians. In his current position at CHCA, José is a founding member of the Electric Jazz Orchestra and has an active Trombone Studio at CHCA. He had his conducting debut at CHCA for the production of the musical Anything Goes, for which the orchestra was awarded a Cappie for best orchestra in a musical, and since, he has earned multiple Cappie Awards for Best Orchestra in a Musical. José was born and raised in Carolina, Puerto Rico, and in his free time he enjoys playing dominos with friends and eating good Puerto Rican food.
Amy Macy
Titles:
Classroom Teacher-Strings
Degrees:
M.M., Temple University
B.M., The New School
B.M., The New School
Email:
Biography:
Amy came to CHCA from Zimbabwe, where she had lived for four years teaching strings and coaching chamber music. Amy is a member of the American String Teachers Association, the Suzuki Association of the Americas, and the National Association for Music Education. In 2016 Amy launched a European Suzuki Association Teacher Training Program in Zimbabwe. She also performed at the Harare International Arts Festival. She has been a cellist in the West Virginia Symphony and is a registered Suzuki Violin (Books 1-4) and Cello (Books 1-5) teacher through the Suzuki Association of the Americas.
Amy came to CHCA from Zimbabwe, where she had lived for four years teaching strings and coaching chamber music. Amy is a member of the American String Teachers Association, the Suzuki Association of the Americas, and the National Association for Music Education. In 2016 Amy launched a European Suzuki Association Teacher Training Program in Zimbabwe. She also performed at the Harare International Arts Festival. She has been a cellist in the West Virginia Symphony and is a registered Suzuki Violin (Books 1-4) and Cello (Books 1-5) teacher through the Suzuki Association of the Americas.
Andrew Hartman
Titles:
Classroom Teacher-Instrumental
Degrees:
B.A., The Ohio State University
B.A., The Ohio State University
B.A., The Ohio State University
Email:
Biography:
Andrew is a member of the Ohio Music Education Association, the National Association for Music Education, and the Percussive Arts Society. He teaches drumline for marching band during summer band camps. He has served as a church musician for 14 years, providing drums and percussion for Forest Chapel United Methodist Church, Northminster Presbyterian Church, and All Saints Catholic Church. In 2014, Andrew won the Ohio State University James Moore Percussion, and he performed with the Ohio Military Band and was a featured soloist in 2010 and 2015.
Andrew is a member of the Ohio Music Education Association, the National Association for Music Education, and the Percussive Arts Society. He teaches drumline for marching band during summer band camps. He has served as a church musician for 14 years, providing drums and percussion for Forest Chapel United Methodist Church, Northminster Presbyterian Church, and All Saints Catholic Church. In 2014, Andrew won the Ohio State University James Moore Percussion, and he performed with the Ohio Military Band and was a featured soloist in 2010 and 2015.
Vocal Music
Vocal Music is an important element of our Music program that is available to even our youngest of students. In grade, students move from General to Vocal Music where they develop their vocal skills to sing alone and with a group. Students are taught how to read music and how to sing with expression and technical accuracy, while performing a varied repertoire of vocal literature representing diverse genres and cultures. Our seasoned and experienced Vocal Music faculty are skilled at developing our vocal musicians.
Lower School
Curricular Offerings
Choir (Gr 6)
Performance Opportunities
Gr 5-6 Christmas Concert
Gr 5-6 Spring Choral Concert
Extracurricular Offerings
Musical Theater Production (Gr 5-8)
Private Music Lesson Program (PK3 - Gr 8)
Private Music Lessons (onsite, independent instructors) (Gr 5-12)
Vocal Music Faculty
Della Enns
Titles:
Classroom Teacher-Vocal
Degrees:
M.M., University of Cincinnati
B.M., Bob Jones University
B.M., Bob Jones University
Email:
Biography:
Della is a member of OMEA (Ohio Music Educators Association), National Fine Arts Festival of Assemblies of God, and the National Guild of Piano Teachers. She also earned Nashville Independent Musicians Instrumental Artist of the Year, Best in Show-Art and Soul on Vine Choir-Cincinnati Reds Parade and First Prize- Composition Competition- University Press. She served as a judge in the Piano Division and Songwriting Division in the National Fine Arts Festival, a pianist for the Middletown Symphony and the Cincinnati Ballet, and studio instructor and coach at the Musical Arts Center. She is a regular performer at the Live at Lunch series at Christ Cathedral. Della has composed three albums: After His Own Heart, Origins, and Beautiful Still.
Della is a member of OMEA (Ohio Music Educators Association), National Fine Arts Festival of Assemblies of God, and the National Guild of Piano Teachers. She also earned Nashville Independent Musicians Instrumental Artist of the Year, Best in Show-Art and Soul on Vine Choir-Cincinnati Reds Parade and First Prize- Composition Competition- University Press. She served as a judge in the Piano Division and Songwriting Division in the National Fine Arts Festival, a pianist for the Middletown Symphony and the Cincinnati Ballet, and studio instructor and coach at the Musical Arts Center. She is a regular performer at the Live at Lunch series at Christ Cathedral. Della has composed three albums: After His Own Heart, Origins, and Beautiful Still.
Upper School
Curricular Offerings
| Gr 7-8: Choir (Gr 7-8) Eagle Ensemble (Gr 7-8) | Gr 9-12: Encore Choir (Gr 9-12) |
Performance Opportunities
Choral Fall Concert (Gr 9-12)
Christmas Concert (Gr 7-8)
EJO and Choirs Christmas Concert (Gr 9-12)
Sacred Music Concert (Gr 9-12)
Choral Spring Concert (Gr 9-12)
Choral Spring Concert (Gr 7-8)
Extracurricular Offerings
Chapel Band (Gr 7-8)
Chapel Band (Gr 9-12)
Fall Musical (Gr 7-12)
Musical Theater Production (Gr 5-8)
Private Music Lessons (Gr 5-12)
Spring Musical (Gr 7-12)
Summer Offerings
StageStruck Musical Theater Camp (Gr 5-9)
Vocal Music Faculty
Sara Potts
Titles:
Classroom Teacher-Vocal and Dance
Degrees:
M.M., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
B.A., Otterbein College
B.A., Otterbein College
Email:
Biography:
Sara is a member of the Ohio Music Educators Association (OMEA) and the Ohio Choral Directors Association (OCDA). She served for six years on the OCDA board as Summer Conference Co-Chair and Southwest Region Chair. She regularly attends OMEA and OCDA conferences. While at Otterbein, Sarah earned numerous honors, including the Grabill-Shackson Award, Presser Foundation Scholar, and the Thelma Zelner Choral Music Award. Outside CHCA, she serves as the adult Chancel Choir director at Sharonville United Methodist Church and Preschool Music teacher at Northminster Children's Co-op. Sara's husband Brian is also a choral director; they have three children.
Sara is a member of the Ohio Music Educators Association (OMEA) and the Ohio Choral Directors Association (OCDA). She served for six years on the OCDA board as Summer Conference Co-Chair and Southwest Region Chair. She regularly attends OMEA and OCDA conferences. While at Otterbein, Sarah earned numerous honors, including the Grabill-Shackson Award, Presser Foundation Scholar, and the Thelma Zelner Choral Music Award. Outside CHCA, she serves as the adult Chancel Choir director at Sharonville United Methodist Church and Preschool Music teacher at Northminster Children's Co-op. Sara's husband Brian is also a choral director; they have three children.
Della Enns
Titles:
Classroom Teacher-Vocal
Degrees:
M.M., University of Cincinnati
B.M., Bob Jones University
B.M., Bob Jones University
Email:
Biography:
Della is a member of OMEA (Ohio Music Educators Association), National Fine Arts Festival of Assemblies of God, and the National Guild of Piano Teachers. She also earned Nashville Independent Musicians Instrumental Artist of the Year, Best in Show-Art and Soul on Vine Choir-Cincinnati Reds Parade and First Prize- Composition Competition- University Press. She served as a judge in the Piano Division and Songwriting Division in the National Fine Arts Festival, a pianist for the Middletown Symphony and the Cincinnati Ballet, and studio instructor and coach at the Musical Arts Center. She is a regular performer at the Live at Lunch series at Christ Cathedral. Della has composed three albums: After His Own Heart, Origins, and Beautiful Still.
Della is a member of OMEA (Ohio Music Educators Association), National Fine Arts Festival of Assemblies of God, and the National Guild of Piano Teachers. She also earned Nashville Independent Musicians Instrumental Artist of the Year, Best in Show-Art and Soul on Vine Choir-Cincinnati Reds Parade and First Prize- Composition Competition- University Press. She served as a judge in the Piano Division and Songwriting Division in the National Fine Arts Festival, a pianist for the Middletown Symphony and the Cincinnati Ballet, and studio instructor and coach at the Musical Arts Center. She is a regular performer at the Live at Lunch series at Christ Cathedral. Della has composed three albums: After His Own Heart, Origins, and Beautiful Still.
Theatre
Theatre provides students an opportunity to bring stories to life. They learn the skills to tell these stories through characterizations and developing scenery, properties, lighting, sound, costumes, and makeup in order to create complete visual and aural experiences. Students learn how to develop characters, use their imaginations, and improvise. Through our robust program, students are provided with numerous opportunities to participate in dramatic plays, musicals, and improv. Our Upper School students are offered the experience of collaborating with our director on creation of the annual Academy Night Live show, writing skits and producing videos.
Additionally, CHCA is home to the International Thespian Society Troupe #5611, with 24 recent inductees.
Early Learning Program & Lower School
Performance Opportunities
Gr 2-3 Christmas Musical
Extracurricular Offerings
Curtains Up Afterschool Acting Program (Gr 3-8)
Musical Theater Production (Gr 5-8)
Summer Offerings
StageStruck New Faces (Gr 3-4)
StageStruck Musical Theater Camp (Gr 5-9)
Drama/Musical Theatre Faculty (Grades K-3)
Kim Cassity
Titles:
Classroom Teacher
Degrees:
M.M., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
B.A., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
B.A., University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
Email:
Biography:
As a musician, Kim has performed for former President George Bush and actress Celeste Holm. She has taught in the CCM Prep Department and Eastern Kentucky University's summer program. She has also earned Superior Ratings and Finalist in several piano competitions. Professional conferences she has attended include the Children's Pastors Conference, the Orange Conference, the Global Leadership Summit, and Team Church. Kim has directed the Melody Maker Choir at several community venues, including singing the National Anthem at several Cincinnati Reds games. She recorded an album titled Window of Mercy and for 13 years was the band leader at Montgomery Community Church.
As a musician, Kim has performed for former President George Bush and actress Celeste Holm. She has taught in the CCM Prep Department and Eastern Kentucky University's summer program. She has also earned Superior Ratings and Finalist in several piano competitions. Professional conferences she has attended include the Children's Pastors Conference, the Orange Conference, the Global Leadership Summit, and Team Church. Kim has directed the Melody Maker Choir at several community venues, including singing the National Anthem at several Cincinnati Reds games. She recorded an album titled Window of Mercy and for 13 years was the band leader at Montgomery Community Church.
Musical Theatre Directors (Gr 5-6)
John Jung
Titles:
Theater Director
Degrees:
B.A., Mount Saint Joseph University
M.Ed., Liberty University
M.Ed., Liberty University
Email:
Biography:
John directed over 25 other middle school productions prior to his 2017 debut at CHCA. He is a music teacher in Cincinnati Public Schools for kindergarten through sixth grade students and also serves as the Curriculum Council Chair for the Fine Arts for the entire district. He taught strings, band, steel drum, and general music at all levels, and arts appreciation and public speaking to high schoolers. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Mount Saint Joseph University, his Master of Education and Education Specialist degrees in Educational Leadership from Liberty University, and is currently working on his Educational Doctorate. He studied theatre in New York City with iTheatrics and the Broadway Teachers Group and received honors in technical theater and choreography at the Junior Theater Festival and the "Freddie G" Director's award of excellence, which included an intensive weekend of study with Broadway professionals through Music Theatre International. John plays percussion professionally for local musical theatre productions.
Kristie Jung
Titles:
Theater Director
Degrees:
B.A., Mount Saint Joseph University
M.Ed., Liberty University
M.Ed., Liberty University
Email:
Biography:
Kristie is delighted to return to CHCA having served as Music Director for Honk Jr. (2005) and Dear Edwina Jr. (2006). She has directed over 25 middle school musicals since 2005 and is a music and theatre educator teaching general music, concert band, steel drum band and theatre. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Mount Saint Joseph University and a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Liberty University. Kristie also studied music at Lee University for two years, where she recorded two albums and performed nationally and internationally with the renowned Lee Singers. She studied theatre instruction with iTheatrics and the Broadway Teachers Group in New York. Kristie and husband John have taken award winning music and drama groups to Christian Talent Competitions at the state and international levels. A student group under their direction was awarded honors in technical theater, best female and male performers, and choreography at the International Junior Theater Festival competition in Atlanta. Kristie presented professional development talks at the Ohio Music Education State Convention about the benefits of musical theatre for middle school students. She continues to perform locally playing saxophone and singing.
Upper School
Curricular Offerings
Drama I (Gr 9-12)
Musical Theatre (Gr 9-12)
Extracurricular Offerings
Curtains Up Afterschool Acting Program (Gr 5-8)
Early Fall Play (Gr 9-12)
Fall Musical (Gr 7-12)
Improv Troup "Off the Cuff" (Gr 9-12)
Late Spring Variety Show (Gr 9-12)
Musical Theater Production (Gr 5-8)
Spring Musical (Gr 7-12)
Spring One Act Play (Gr 7-9)
Student Production Team (Gr 9-12)
Summer Offerings
Improv Camp (Gr 7-9)
StageStruck Musical Theater Camp (Gr 5-9)
Drama/Musical Theatre Faculty
Susan Jung
Titles:
Theater Director, Classroom Teacher
Degrees:
B.A., Northern Kentucky University
Email:
Biography:
Susan has taught musical theater, dance, and acting at the University of Cincinnati-Conservatory of Music in the preparatory department. She has also led or taught at more than 17 musical theater camps, and is one of the stage directors for Crossroads' Christmas theatrical event, Awaited. Susan won an Acclaim Award for Theatre Education as well as several local acting and choreography nominations and awards. She maintains her professional acting career with several regional and national commercials, print ads, and voice-overs. She is a member of Friends of the Groom, a professional Christian Acting Company, and has performed with them for 14 years. Susan has also performed professionally with Cincinnati Children's Theatre and Showboat Majestic. She and her husband, Jim, have three sons.
Susan has taught musical theater, dance, and acting at the University of Cincinnati-Conservatory of Music in the preparatory department. She has also led or taught at more than 17 musical theater camps, and is one of the stage directors for Crossroads' Christmas theatrical event, Awaited. Susan won an Acclaim Award for Theatre Education as well as several local acting and choreography nominations and awards. She maintains her professional acting career with several regional and national commercials, print ads, and voice-overs. She is a member of Friends of the Groom, a professional Christian Acting Company, and has performed with them for 14 years. Susan has also performed professionally with Cincinnati Children's Theatre and Showboat Majestic. She and her husband, Jim, have three sons.
Musical Theatre Directors (Gr 7-8)
John Jung
Titles:
Theater Director
Degrees:
B.A., Mount Saint Joseph University
M.Ed., Liberty University
M.Ed., Liberty University
Email:
Biography:
John directed over 25 other middle school productions prior to his 2017 debut at CHCA. He is a music teacher in Cincinnati Public Schools for kindergarten through sixth grade students and also serves as the Curriculum Council Chair for the Fine Arts for the entire district. He taught strings, band, steel drum, and general music at all levels, and arts appreciation and public speaking to high schoolers. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Mount Saint Joseph University, his Master of Education and Education Specialist degrees in Educational Leadership from Liberty University, and is currently working on his Educational Doctorate. He studied theatre in New York City with iTheatrics and the Broadway Teachers Group and received honors in technical theater and choreography at the Junior Theater Festival and the "Freddie G" Director's award of excellence, which included an intensive weekend of study with Broadway professionals through Music Theatre International. John plays percussion professionally for local musical theatre productions.
Kristie Jung
Titles:
Theater Director
Degrees:
B.A., Mount Saint Joseph University
M.Ed., Liberty University
M.Ed., Liberty University
Email:
Biography:
Kristie is delighted to return to CHCA having served as Music Director for Honk Jr. (2005) and Dear Edwina Jr. (2006). She has directed over 25 middle school musicals since 2005 and is a music and theatre educator teaching general music, concert band, steel drum band and theatre. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Mount Saint Joseph University and a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Liberty University. Kristie also studied music at Lee University for two years, where she recorded two albums and performed nationally and internationally with the renowned Lee Singers. She studied theatre instruction with iTheatrics and the Broadway Teachers Group in New York. Kristie and husband John have taken award winning music and drama groups to Christian Talent Competitions at the state and international levels. A student group under their direction was awarded honors in technical theater, best female and male performers, and choreography at the International Junior Theater Festival competition in Atlanta. Kristie presented professional development talks at the Ohio Music Education State Convention about the benefits of musical theatre for middle school students. She continues to perform locally playing saxophone and singing.
Armleder School
Performance Opportunities
Christmas Concert
Spring Concert
Extracurricular Offerings
Musical Theater Production (Gr 5-8)
Summer Offerings
StageStruck New Faces (Gr 3-4)
StageStruck Musical Theater Camp (Gr 5-9)
Musical Theatre Directors (Gr 5-6)
John Jung
Titles:
Theater Director
Degrees:
B.A., Mount Saint Joseph University
M.Ed., Liberty University
M.Ed., Liberty University
Email:
Biography:
John directed over 25 other middle school productions prior to his 2017 debut at CHCA. He is a music teacher in Cincinnati Public Schools for kindergarten through sixth grade students and also serves as the Curriculum Council Chair for the Fine Arts for the entire district. He taught strings, band, steel drum, and general music at all levels, and arts appreciation and public speaking to high schoolers. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Mount Saint Joseph University, his Master of Education and Education Specialist degrees in Educational Leadership from Liberty University, and is currently working on his Educational Doctorate. He studied theatre in New York City with iTheatrics and the Broadway Teachers Group and received honors in technical theater and choreography at the Junior Theater Festival and the "Freddie G" Director's award of excellence, which included an intensive weekend of study with Broadway professionals through Music Theatre International. John plays percussion professionally for local musical theatre productions.
Kristie Jung
Titles:
Theater Director
Degrees:
B.A., Mount Saint Joseph University
M.Ed., Liberty University
M.Ed., Liberty University
Email:
Biography:
Kristie is delighted to return to CHCA having served as Music Director for Honk Jr. (2005) and Dear Edwina Jr. (2006). She has directed over 25 middle school musicals since 2005 and is a music and theatre educator teaching general music, concert band, steel drum band and theatre. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Mount Saint Joseph University and a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Liberty University. Kristie also studied music at Lee University for two years, where she recorded two albums and performed nationally and internationally with the renowned Lee Singers. She studied theatre instruction with iTheatrics and the Broadway Teachers Group in New York. Kristie and husband John have taken award winning music and drama groups to Christian Talent Competitions at the state and international levels. A student group under their direction was awarded honors in technical theater, best female and male performers, and choreography at the International Junior Theater Festival competition in Atlanta. Kristie presented professional development talks at the Ohio Music Education State Convention about the benefits of musical theatre for middle school students. She continues to perform locally playing saxophone and singing.
