“A broader understanding of language, culture and movement will not only enhance the individual but our society as a whole.”
~Programs for Adults~
Mosaique currently offers classes for adults in dance, music, language and cultural training. The music program is designed to foster an appreciation for world music and introduce fundamental musical concepts while developing specific skills and knowledge of musical genres. Classes in the Language & Culture program emphasize communication and cultural understanding, while integrating students’ interests and needs within the framework of the curriculum. The dance program offers a multicultural and multidimensional experience for students to enjoy dance for fitness and a creative outlet. View the current class schedule.
Dance
The core of the adult program currently consists of Middle Eastern music and dance, including belly dance. Taught by Katayoun, the popular program Dances of 1001 Nights is based on Egyptian and Persian forms of classical, contemporary and folkloric dance, and ShimmyFit! Students explore technique, artistry, performance skills and even discover their hidden talents! Dance for fun and fitness is an integral part of the program. Through the variety of Middle Eastern dance forms, we also explore the music, language, culture, clothing and arts of this colorful region. For more information about the dance program, visit www.KatayounDance.com.
Music & Art
Music
The music program is designed to introduce fundamental musical concepts while developing specific skills. Some courses are of particular interest to students of Middle Eastern dance, however, all who have interest in the courses are welcome and encouraged to participate.
***Middle Eastern Music Education***
Painting from Hasht-Behesht Palace, Isfahan, Iran, from 1669. Photo by Zereshk.
From
music selection to costume 
purchases, learn how music and cultural education can inspire
exciting artistic concepts and unique creative performances! Explore new music and rediscover cherished songs on a whole new level of understanding and appreciation.
Learn about a variety of music so that you are better educated about Middle Eastern dance and cultural background. With the knowledge and skills developed in this course, you will gain the confidence to make more informed and appropriate choices about all aspects of Middle Eastern dance performance.
Students will have a glimpse into the making of music, and take home a treasure of examples on CD to help in choosing music for performance and listening pleasure.
An up and coming feature of this program is the opportunity to learn from guest experts. Guest artists/musicians are scheduled based on availability.
There are two main components of the Middle Eastern Music Education series:
Lecture/Discussion/Exploration: Regions & Styles
Discover a wide variety of Middle Eastern music including classical and folklore styles of Egyptian, Persian, Lebanese, the Arabian Peninsula and Central Asia. Each trimester features a different theme. Learn about the art and science of the maqam and taqsim which produce the emotion, drama and sensuality of Egyptian Classical music. Learn how to define the different styles of belly dance music as we discuss their cultural contexts and meaning of lyrics. Will will also compare and contrast regional folkloric music and themes. Exploration will include how to analyze music for choreography and performance including what to listen for and how to create a visual map of the music for dance. In addition,
you will learn about phrasing and embellishments as you become familiar
with a variety of Middle Eastern music including best-loved belly dance classic and contemporary songs
Hands-on Practical: Percussion & Rhythms
For the dancer and musician, rhythm is the foundation of Middle Eastern music education and appreciation. With knowledge of the rhythms and their origins, we have a better understanding and rich sources of inspiration for creating music and dance. In this component of the series, you will have hands-on study of the rhythms, structures, and percussion technique. As your musical knowledge and experience grows, you will be able to better understand, analyze, and ultimately dance with confidence and creativity to any piece of Middle Eastern music. Rhythms of study will include popular dance rhythms, such as maqsoum, saidi, masmoudi, and wahida, As time and student ability allow, we will explore other rhythms such as Samai and Persian 6/8. This will also be a good opportunity to practice finger cymbal techniques and patterns.
Art
Currently under consideration:
Middle Eastern Textiles & Clothing: Costume Concepts, Design and Construction
Language & Culture
While still under development, the language program is being designed with students in mind. We consider each student's purpose and goal for studying a language and strive to tailor classes to meet their interests and needs. Language courses currently being developed: Introduction to Persian (Farsi) Language & Culture, and French Refresher & Conversation. Languages under consideration: Arabic, Italian, Spanish.
Language Refresher & Conversation
Designed for those who studied a language in the past, perhaps high school or college, and would like to review and improve their skills, this course aims to help students combat speaking anxiety and gain confidence participating in discussions of various topics. Students currently enrolled in a high school or college course will benefit from the extra reinforcement as well as the opportunity to apply and enhance their skills in a less stringent environment that is relaxed and fun. Class will progress as determined by the needs, interests and abilities of students.
Introduction to Language & Culture
This course aims to familiarize students with a language and culture with emphasis on communication and cultural understanding. Curriculum includes essential conversation and cultural topics such as holidays, customs and traditions; a strong foundation of grammatical concepts; proper pronunciation, and writing system, if applicable.