The Partners Powering Cassa’s Visibility in Calgary

Have you noticed Cassa Musical Arts signs popping up around Calgary as you’ve been driving through the city? Those banners and road signs are part of a growing effort to connect young artists with meaningful opportunities in musical arts education.

Bringing this visibility to life would not have been possible without the support of Process Color and Bold Signs. Both organizations worked with Cassa Musical Arts as a registered charity, offering thoughtful pricing and professional expertise in the printing and installation of our signage. Their support helps us continue expanding access to high-quality musical arts programming for students across Calgary.

At Cassa Musical Arts, our mission is to create opportunities for performers to build confidence, creativity, and community through the arts. We are grateful to Process Color and Bold Signs for helping us share that mission across the city.


Investing in Excellence: Scholarship Opportunities at Cassa Musical Arts

At Cassa Musical Arts, we believe that dedication, passion, and growth in music should be recognized and celebrated. Our scholarship and award programs are designed not only to honour outstanding achievement, but also to support students as they continue their musical journeys.

Beginning in 2026, the Dr. Bell Distinguished Musicianship Award will provide $150 to a student who consistently demonstrates exceptional musicianship across all aspects of their performance and learning journey at Cassa Piano Immersive. This award highlights not only technical skill, but also artistry, expression, and a deep engagement with music. We gratefully acknowledge long-time Cassa instructor, Dr. Laura Bell, for her generous contribution in making this award possible.

Other long-standing scholarship funds that are available to our students include:

  • MARISSA STADDON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND: The Marissa Staddon Memorial Scholarship Fund, through Cassa Musical Arts, will award a $150 scholarship to the most outstanding Cassa Piano Immersive student each year.

  • DOROTHEA JOHANSON MEMORIAL FUND: Dorothea Johanson was an enthusiastic supporter of Cassa’s summer programs. She was first a volunteer at Cassa Piano Immersive (formerly Piano Camp), then joined the teaching staff and became an active member of the Cassa Board of Directors. In her honour, a $150 scholarship will be awarded to the most improved Cassa Piano Immersive student each year.

  • ARMTA RECOGNITION FUND: This award recognizes exceptional Cassa students who, in the opinion of the instructors, show outstanding promise and dedication to success and who currently study with an ARMTA member. The awards total $500.

At Cassa Musical Arts, these scholarships represent more than financial support; they are part of our commitment to nurturing musicians at every stage. We are proud to recognize the achievements, growth, and potential of our students, and we look forward to celebrating many more inspiring journeys in the years ahead.

Special thanks go to our many supporters who make this funding available. Because of donations made by people like you, we have been able to support many deserving and talented students over the years. If you are interested in making a lasting contribution to our organization and students, please contact us at info@cassamusicalarts.com to learn more.

Thank You Gregg Pauley and A Look Ahead to Summer at Cassa

Thank you to Gregg Pauley for leading this past weekend’s inspiring masterclass! We are thankful to Mr. Pauley for generously sharing his time, insight, and expertise with the Cassa Musical Arts community. Opportunities like this enrich our students’ musical journeys and strengthen the spirit of learning and collaboration that defines Cassa.

We are also excited to welcome Mr. Pauley as this summer’s special guest artist. He will be featured in this year’s Cassa Concert and will lead all of our piano programs, including our online programs (Cassa Pedagogy, Cassa Online Piano) and in-person programs (Cassa Pedagogy, Cassa Piano Immersive and Adult Piano) at Brentview Baptist Church.

This summer’s distinguished piano faculty will also include Joseph Fridman, Dr. Laura Bell, Linda Kundert, Darcy van Helden, Dr. Karen Gerelus, Marianne van der Sloot and Carlo Santos. As always, enrollment is limited to maintain low teacher-to-student ratios, so we encourage you to register soon to secure your spot.

Register today by clicking on the programs below!

Cassa Concert
from $20.00

In-person: July 12, 2026 7:00pm (Brentview Baptist Church)
Adults $25, student/senior $20, family (4-6 members) $60 - Tickets available online or at the door.

Pianist Gregg Pauley presents an unforgettable night of music, featuring Ravel’s Valses nobles et sentimentales and the hauntingly beautiful Pavane pour une infante défunte, alongside Schubert’s monumental Piano Sonata in B-flat Major, D. 960. This evocative program showcases some of the most expressive works in the piano repertoire. Join us for an evening of artistry, nuance, and captivating musical storytelling.  

This concert is generously supported by Cassa Musical Arts Sponsors, with all proceeds of ticket sales dedicated to support the musical arts programs at Cassa (Charity No.88490 6249 RR0001). That means 100% of your ticket purchases go to enrich our programs for our students. Patrons are encouraged to attend the concert at 7:00pm and the post-concert mingle, where they can meet our instructors, students, mentors-in-training, and mentors, and learn more about our programs. 

Come experience outstanding music led by our 2026 Guest Artist, and support our Cassa musical arts programming!

Piano Pedagogy
from $49.00

In-Person: July 13, 2026, 9am-4pm - lunch is included. Brentview Baptist Church
Fee for Teachers: Early Bird $99, after June 15 $119. Fee for Students: Early Bird $49, after June 15 $89.

Online: July 20-21, 2026, 9am-12pm
$89 both sessions, $49 per individual session

Cassa Piano Pedagogy

Cassa Pedagogy offers thoughtful exploration of artistry, interpretation, and student development at the piano. This year's guest artist, Gregg Pauley, will present the following topics:

Session I: All About Franz Schubert This session examines Schubert’s life, his piano works and stylistic voice, with a special focus on the depth and structure of his final sonata.

Session II: The Use of Narrative in Creating a Cohesive Structure Mr. Pauley will explore how narrative, or storytelling, can shape structure in performance repertoire. Participants will explore connections within the music that reflect real or imagined experiences we can relate to personally, and they will learn how to apply these experiences in a linear way to create a cohesive and logical narrative that aligns with the musical content of any piece. Examples participants will work through include Chopin’s Second Piano Sonata and Schumann’s Arabeske.

Session III: Sound and Listening This talk centers on musical sound through active listening, encouraging participants to refine their own tonal awareness. Mr. Pauley will discuss and demonstrate how to develop a “speaking” sound and how to create “colour" at the piano.

Session IV: Enrolling Students in High Achievement at the Piano In this session, Mr. Pauley will address strategies for motivating students toward high achievement, which includes effective goal-setting and the development of good practice habits. He will also talk about preparing students both mentally and physically for competitions.

Guest Artist: Gregg Pauley

Piano Immersive
$479.00

Cassa Piano Immersive (Ages 9-19)

July 13-17, 2026 9:00am-5:00pm Recitals: Thursday July 16, 2026 at 7:00 pm & Friday July 17, 2026 at 2:00 pm Brentview Baptist Church‍ ‍

Early Bird Registration Fee: $479, Fee After June 15: $529

Cassa Piano is an exciting five-day experience for pianists level 3 RCM/CC and up, to explore the many facets of piano playing in a supportive, fun atmosphere that promotes a positive attitude towards practising and performing. Students are coached in prepared solo repertoire and new ensemble pieces. Students attend classes in musical style, interpretation, memorization, technique and performance anxiety. Classes in choir, art, and improvisation are also offered.

The Cassa Piano composer of the year will be Franz Schubert. Students will learn more about the featured composer and will perform a piece written by Schubert during the program.

Guest Artist: Gregg Pauley

Experts: Dr. Laura Bell, Joseph Fridman, Linda Kundert, Darcy van Helden, Dr. Karen Gerelus, Marianne van der Sloot and Carlo Santos.

Instructor/Supervisor: Georgeanne van Helden

Assistant Coaches: Justine Cherry-Delisle, and Maria Bustos

Online Piano Immersive
$349.00

Cassa Online Piano Immersive (Ages 9-Adult)

Online: July 20-23, 2026

Early Bird Registration Fee: $349, Fee After June 15: $399

Online Cassa Piano is an exciting four-day experience for pianists level 3 RCM/CC and up, to explore the many facets of piano playing in a supportive atmosphere that promotes a positive attitude towards practising and performing. Students receive some online masterclasses and talks from our Cassa Guest Artist and Expert throughout the week.

Students from age 9 to adults are welcome to join this exciting online piano program. The Guest Artist talks and online masterclasses will culminate with a recital performance on July 23. Dependent on enrollment, students may be split into different age groups for their performances.

The Cassa Piano composer of the year will be Franz Schubert. Students will learn more about the featured composer and may perform a piece written by Schubert during the program.

Guest Artist: Gregg Pauley

Experts: TBA depending on enrollment, along with Linda Kundert

Adult Piano
$349.00

Cassa Adult Piano (for Students Age 18+)

July 14-16, 2026, 9:00am-5:00pm Musicale: Thursday July 16, 2026 at 2:00 pm Brentview Baptist Church

Early Bird Pricing: $349, Registration After June 15: $399

Cassa Adult Piano is an exciting three-day experience for adult pianists to explore the many facets of piano playing in a supportive, fun atmosphere that promotes a positive attitude towards practising and performing.

The Cassa Piano composer of the year will be Franz Schubert. Students will learn more about the featured composer and may perform a piece written by Schubert during the program.

Guest Artist: Gregg Pauley

Experts: Dr. Laura Bell, Joseph Fridman, Linda Kundert, Darcy van Helden, Dr. Karen Gerelus, Marianne van der Sloot and Carlo Santos.

Instructor/Supervisor: Georgeanne van Helden

Assistant Coaches: Justine Cherry-Delisle, and Maria Bustos

It’s Alive! Cassa Musical Arts Unveils 2026 Production: The Tragic Tale of Frankenstein

This summer in Calgary, something electrifying is coming to life…

Cassa Musical Arts is proud to announce that its 2026 Musical Theatre will culminate in a bold and unforgettable production of The Tragic Tale of Frankenstein, with the story written by local talent: Simon Rose, Jane Dennison and Meredith Taylor-Parry;  music is by Tim Janz, arranged by Lyudmyla Heath, and lyrics are by Jane Dennison.

Running July 23, 24, 27, 28, 29 & 30, 2026, Cassa Musical Theatre invites performers aged 9–21 to immerse themselves in every aspect of theatre-making. Over the course of an intensive, creativity-filled week, students will:

  • Develop vocal strength and storytelling skills

  • Explore character and dramatic expression

  • Learn choreography and stage movement

  • Collaborate as an ensemble

  • Bring a full musical production to life

The program culminates in a fully staged live performance on July 30 at 7:00pm, complete with a live band and theatrical production elements.

Cassa Musical Arts has built a reputation for delivering immersive, mentorship-driven programs that go beyond the stage. Participants don’t just rehearse: they create, experiment, and discover their artistic voice in a supportive, professional environment.

Join us for a summer where imagination sparks, creativity thrives, and help us bring Frankenstein to life! Register now!

Musical Theatre
$429.00

Cassa Musical Theatre (Ages 9-21)

Location: Rehearsals and Performance at GCA Theatre, 16520 24 St SW, Calgary AB
2026 Dates: July 23, 24, 27, 28, 29 & 30 from 9:00am-3:00pm

Performance: July 30, 2026 at 7:00pm
Early Bird fee: $429, after June 15 $469

Are you ready to shine on stage? Join our Musical Theatre Program and immerse yourself in a world of song, dance, and drama! Train with top professionals and receive one-on-one mentorship as you master essential skills like story and character exploration, vocal techniques, solo and group singing, choreography, and set design. This comprehensive program culminates in a spectacular final performance, where you’ll showcase your talents before a live theatre audience and a professional band. Don’t miss this chance to make your musical theatre dreams come true!

This summer’s musical will be The Tragic Tale of Frankenstein: A chilling story of great loneliness, cruel fate, and within it, a lesson for us all. I bid you to take heed and listen well. The book is by Simon Rose, Jane Dennison and Meredith Taylor-Parry; music is by Tim Janz, arranged by Lyudmyla Heath, and lyrics are by Jane Dennison. ‍

Auditions will be held in June 2026.

Spaces limited—Register now!

Don’t let your financial situation be a barrier to joining us. Apply here.

Experts: Jane Dennison, Lyudmyla Heath, Deanne Walsh, Michelle Delisle, Karen Scarlett

Assistant Coaches: Justine Cherry-Delisle, Maria Bustos

Mentors: Daniel Dennison, Eleanor Reckseidler, Mixia Li-Heinrichs, Karma Taylor, Abram Schwonik, Jordan Runions and Savannah King

Mentors-in-Training: Ruby Cassam, Sofia Dennison, Nate Lopaschuk, Kaslyn Chan, Luke Giardino, and Sophia Roggensack

Making Music Accessible for Everyone

Bursaries and Helping Students Thrive Through Music

At Cassa Musical Arts, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy of music regardless of financial circumstances. Whether you're a young beginner, an advancing student, or an adult returning to music, our goal is to make participation possible for all.

That’s why we offer bursaries for both youth and adult learners across all Cassa programs.

Music has the power to build confidence, spark creativity, and bring people together. We are committed to breaking down financial barriers so that more individuals and families in our community can access high-quality music education.

If cost is a concern, we warmly encourage you to apply for financial assistance. Reaching out is the first step and we’re here to support you.

How to Apply for Financial Assistance:

To request a bursary, please email info@cassamusicalarts.com with a short letter including:

  • The participant’s name (child or adult applicant)

  • The program of interest

  • Their level of music experience

  • A brief description of your circumstances and how financial assistance would support participation

  • A few words about why the program is of interest

  • How you heard about Cassa Musical Arts

All applications are reviewed confidentially by the Cassa Management Team.

If your application is approved:

  • You’ll be invited to complete online registration

  • A nominal $50 administrative fee will be required to confirm your placement

Bursary amounts vary each year depending on the number of applications received and available donor funding. Applicants are typically notified of decisions in June.

Our bursary program exists because we truly want you to be part of our musical community. If you or your child are interested in participating, we encourage you to apply. Music education can be a transformative experience, and we would love to support your journey.

If you have any questions about the process or eligibility, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always happy to help.

Celebrating Our Students at the 2026 Rotary Calgary Concerto Competition

Congratulations to the following Cassa Piano students for participating in the 2026 Rotary Calgary Concerto Competition: Gemma Konnert, Wynn Phung, Ethan Young, Ian Quon, Serenity Zhang, Joel Cook and Lisa Zhang.

We are incredibly proud of each student for their dedication, preparation, and musical artistry demonstrated throughout this prestigious competition. Participating in an event of this caliber reflects not only talent, but also perseverance, discipline, and a genuine passion for music.

A special congratulations goes out to Ian Quon for achieving Runner Up in the competition. This outstanding achievement is a testament to Ian’s hard work and commitment to musical excellence.

At Cassa Piano, we are truly delighted to be part of our students’ musical journeys. Watching young musicians grow in confidence, creativity, and expression is one of the greatest joys of our work.

Join our Cassa Piano programs today and become part of a supportive community dedicated to inspiring musical growth and lifelong appreciation for the arts!

Piano Immersive
$479.00

Cassa Piano Immersive (Ages 9-19)

July 13-17, 2026 9:00am-5:00pm Recitals: Thursday July 16, 2026 at 7:00 pm & Friday July 17, 2026 at 2:00 pm Brentview Baptist Church‍ ‍

Early Bird Registration Fee: $479, Fee After June 15: $529

Cassa Piano is an exciting five-day experience for pianists level 3 RCM/CC and up, to explore the many facets of piano playing in a supportive, fun atmosphere that promotes a positive attitude towards practising and performing. Students are coached in prepared solo repertoire and new ensemble pieces. Students attend classes in musical style, interpretation, memorization, technique and performance anxiety. Classes in choir, art, and improvisation are also offered.

The Cassa Piano composer of the year will be Franz Schubert. Students will learn more about the featured composer and will perform a piece written by Schubert during the program.

Guest Artist: Gregg Pauley

Experts: Dr. Laura Bell, Joseph Fridman, Linda Kundert, Darcy van Helden, Dr. Karen Gerelus, Marianne van der Sloot and Carlo Santos.

Instructor/Supervisor: Georgeanne van Helden

Assistant Coaches: Justine Cherry-Delisle, and Maria Bustos

You’re Invited: THE LORNA MACLACHLAN QUINTET!

Cassa Musical Arts is delighted to share a special invitation from one of our talented instructors, Lorna MacLachlan. Join her for an unforgettable live performance with the Lorna MacLachlan Quintet!

Lorna will be presenting a quintet with a great line-up of musicians for her Attic debut. This includes Jon McCaslin (drums), Richard Harding (saxophones), David Lavoie (trumpet) and Jeremy Coates (bass). This performance is a wonderful opportunity to experience the artistry of a dedicated educator and performer who is an integral part of the Cassa Musical Arts community.

Event Details & Tickets
Learn more and reserve your spot here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-lorna-maclachlan-quintet-tickets-1982760413772?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete

Come out and support live music while celebrating the incredible talent within our Cassa community. We hope to see you there!

Learn from Lorna MacLachlan and Lyudmyla Heath at this summer’s Creative Music Program.

Creative Music
$349.00

Cassa Creative Music (Age 10 - Adult)

In Person: July 6-10, 2026 9:00am - 3:30pm Early Bird $349, after June 15 $399 Brentview Baptist Church‍ Cassa Cabaret — Live Band Performance & Reception July 10, 2026 7:00 PM

Have you ever wanted to compose your own music? Do you have ideas for songs, melodies, rhythms or chord progressions that you would like to be able to develop into a complete piece? Are you a player or singer who would like to explore your own musical creativity, but do not know where to start?

Explore songwriting, composition and improvisation while learning how musical ideas grow into complete pieces. Guided by experienced composers and musicians, students develop their creativity and showcase their original work in a showcase.

The Cassa Cabaret performance with a live band will take place on July 10, 2026 7:00pm at Brentview Baptist Church.

This program is for students, aged 10 to adult. Some musical experience is helpful, but it is not necessary. All instrumentalists and voice students are welcome to attend.

Experts: Lorna MacLachlan,‍ Lyudmyla Heath

Celebrating Our Donors: The Impact Behind Every Note

At Cassa Musical Arts, every program, performance, and moment of creative discovery is made possible through the generosity of our donors. Their support sustains our summer programs, masterclasses, and year-round programming, empowering students to grow in confidence, develop their musical skills, and experience the joy of artistic expression. We are continually inspired by this community of supporters who believe in the transformative power of the arts and their vital role in enriching lives.

We are proud to share the release of our 2025 Donor Impact Report, highlighting the meaningful difference our donors have made over the past year. From expanding access to high-quality arts education to fostering creativity and connection, their impact is felt in every note. We invite you to explore the report and see how your support makes a difference—and to join us in continuing this important work.

Summer Piano at Cassa Musical Arts

For more than 30 years, Cassa Musical Arts has inspired pianists through engaging summer programs built on a passion for quality music education. Founded in 1993 by Calgary music teachers in collaboration with a local piano dealer, Cassa has grown into one of Canada’s most comprehensive summer piano experiences while maintaining a welcoming, community-centered approach.

A defining feature of Cassa’s piano programs is our small teacher-to-student ratios, allowing each participant to receive personalized instruction, individual feedback, and meaningful mentorship from experienced professional faculty. Students benefit from focused learning tailored to their goals, whether they are beginners, advancing musicians, adult learners, or piano teachers seeking professional enrichment.

Cassa combines strong musical training with creativity, collaboration, and performance opportunities in a supportive and energetic environment. Pianists build confidence, strengthen skills, and deepen their love of music while connecting with a vibrant artistic community.

Join us this summer and discover how individualized attention can make piano study inspiring, rewarding, and fun.


Summer Music Programs for All Ages at Cassa Musical Arts

Summer is just around the corner—and there’s no better time to explore your creativity through music!

If you’re looking for an inspiring and enriching way to spend your summer, Cassa Musical Arts has an exciting lineup of programs designed for students, adults, and teachers of all levels.

Based in Calgary, Cassa Musical Arts is a registered charity dedicated to delivering high-quality music and performing arts education through immersive, hands-on experiences. With over 30 years of programming, their summer offerings continue to inspire creativity, build confidence, and develop musical skills in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Programs run throughout July and include both in-person experiences in Calgary and online options, making them accessible to a wide range of participants.

Register today! https://www.cassamusicalarts.com/

Expand Your Musical Horizons with Cassa’s Creative Music and Guitar Programs

Since 1993, Cassa Musical Arts has been offering inspiring summer programs that nurture young musicians and performers. Our renowned Cassa Piano and Musical Theatre programs have built a strong reputation for excellence and continue to be a highlight of the summer season.

But did you know that we also offer exciting opportunities in composition and guitar?

Cassa Creative Music is designed for students who are curious about songwriting, composition, and improvisation. This program encourages students to explore their musical ideas, experiment with sound, and develop the confidence to create and perform their own original music in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Cassa Guitar Immersive welcomes students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are just starting out or looking to refine your technique, this program provides focused instruction and engaging musical experiences to help students strengthen their guitar skills and grow as musicians.

At Cassa Musical Arts, our summer programs are about more than learning music—they’re about creativity, confidence, and discovering your unique musical voice.

Join us this summer at Cassa Creative Music and Cassa Guitar Immersive!


A Special Invitation from David Bertram

At Cassa Musical Arts, once you’ve experienced one of our programs, you become part of our family — and we love celebrating the artistic journeys of our community members long after their time with us.

Our former Cassa Adult Piano student, David Bertram, has shared an exciting invitation for all Cassa Musical Arts instructors and participants. David is now singing barbershop with Calgary-based vocal ensemble Acappella Road, and he’s been loving every moment — creating art through harmony, resonance, and collaboration.

On June 4, 2026, Acappella Road will host a very special concert featuring the legendary Swedish vocal group The Real Group in a rare collaborative performance right here in Calgary. For more than 40 years, The Real Group has helped shape modern a cappella music worldwide, and Acappella Road is thrilled to share the stage with them for this unforgettable evening.

The concert will take place at the Bella Concert Hall at Mount Royal University, bringing a vibrant celebration of a cappella music to our city.

To learn more and purchase tickets, visit:
www.acappellaroad.ca

We’re delighted to share this opportunity with our Cassa Musical Arts community and hope many of you will attend, to support David, and enjoy an extraordinary night of vocal music.

Congratulations to Our Cassa Guitar Immersive Winner!

Congratulations to Allie Marcoux, the winner of our Cassa Guitar Immersive Summer Program draw! Allie has earned the opportunity to join us this summer for an exciting and enriching guitar experience at Cassa Musical Arts.

During the program, Allie will learn from expert guitarist and instructor Brent Gunther, who will guide students through technique development, musical expression, and collaborative playing. The Cassa Guitar Immersive program is designed to help guitarists grow in confidence and skill while exploring a wide range of musical styles.

Open to students of age 9 to adult and various experience levels, the program provides a supportive and inspiring environment where participants can refine their guitar technique, expand their musical knowledge, and connect with fellow musicians. Whether students are just beginning their guitar journey or looking to deepen their abilities, the immersive format allows for focused learning, creativity, and musical discovery.

We are excited to welcome Allie this summer and look forward to seeing her musical journey unfold at Cassa!

If you’re interested in joining Allie and Brent this summer, you can learn more about the program and registration through: Cassa Guitar Immersive.



Celebrating Our Partnership with ARMTA

The Alberta Registered Music Teachers Association (ARMTA) has been a strong supporter of Cassa Musical Arts since our inception in 1993. Over the years, this relationship has helped strengthen music education in our community and provided meaningful opportunities for both our instructors and students.

Many members of the Cassa teaching team are proud ARMTA members. Through this shared commitment to high standards in music education, we continue to foster an environment where students receive exceptional instruction and mentorship.

ARMTA has also played an important role in supporting Cassa’s operations through financial contributions. In addition, their generous scholarships provide valuable encouragement to our students, helping young musicians pursue their studies and celebrate their achievements.

This past month, ARMTA featured an article from Cassa that highlights the many benefits of music education during the summer months. The feature also showcased the wide variety of summer programs we offer, designed to help students continue learning, stay inspired, and grow musically throughout the season.

We are incredibly grateful for ARMTA’s continued support and partnership. Their dedication to music education helps make opportunities like ours possible, and we look forward to continuing this collaboration for years to come.

Thank you, ARMTA, for championing music education and supporting our community of musicians.

Read ARMTA’s full March Issue of Impromptu Magazine here. Cassa’s article is featured below.

Teachers: Know anyone with great potential?

Cassa’s musical arts programs nurtures talent and enables the creation of original works. Students access support from industry experts for collaboration, connection and skill-building. From musical theatre performance, songwriting, piano and guitar skills, and everything in-between, our programs create inspiring experiences for youth to develop their skills in all aspects of musical arts. Participants build team and leadership skills and establish lifelong connections. Connect your students with us and watch them soar!

Cassa is a registered Charitable Organization with an active Board of Directors that practice high regulatory and inclusivity standards along with exceptional impact measures.

Bursaries are available for students requiring financial assistance.

Elevate Your Playing — Join Our Guest Artist Masterclass with Gregg Pauley

Are you ready to take your piano skills to the next level? We’re thrilled to invite intermediate to advanced pianists of all ages to a special online Guest Artist Masterclass featuring internationally respected performer, teacher, and mentor Gregg Pauley!

  • Date: April 18, 2026

  • Time: 9:00 am – 1:15 pm

  • Cost: Free for observers (student masterclass participants cost is $120/hour)

Student participants will receive focused and personalized feedback designed to strengthen technique, interpretation, and performance confidence. Observers — including teachers, parents, and fellow musicians — are welcome to attend at no cost and will benefit from the shared learning experience.

Masterclasses are a powerful way to grow as a musician. They foster artistic development, encourage thoughtful interpretation, and inspire new approaches to performance.

Space is limited. We encourage interested students and observers to register soon to secure their place in this enriching musical experience.

Learn more and register here.



Thank You, Joseph Fridman — See You in Calgary This Summer!

A heartfelt thank you to Joseph Fridman for leading this past weekend’s inspiring masterclass. We’re also grateful to the many students, teachers, and piano enthusiasts who attended and contributed to such a vibrant learning environment. The session sold out quickly, and we were delighted to extend the class to accommodate additional participants — there is always a lot to learn from Mr. Fridman.

We are especially thankful to Mr. Fridman for generously sharing his time and expertise with our Cassa learning community. For those who would like to continue learning from him, he will be traveling from Edmonton to join us this summer in Calgary for our in-person Cassa Piano Immersive and Adult Piano programs at Brentview Baptist Church.

This summer’s distinguished faculty will also include Dr. Laura Bell, Linda Kundert, Darcy van Helden, Dr. Karen Gerelus, Marianne van der Sloot and Carlo Santos, along with special guest artist Gregg Pauley. As always, enrollment is limited to maintain low teacher-to-student ratios, so we encourage you to register soon to secure your spot.

Register today by clicking on the programs below!

Piano Immersive
$479.00

Cassa Piano Immersive (Ages 9-19)

July 13-17, 2026 9:00am-5:00pm Recitals: Thursday July 16, 2026 at 7:00 pm & Friday July 17, 2026 at 2:00 pm Brentview Baptist Church‍ ‍

Early Bird Registration Fee: $479, Fee After June 15: $529

Cassa Piano is an exciting five-day experience for pianists level 3 RCM/CC and up, to explore the many facets of piano playing in a supportive, fun atmosphere that promotes a positive attitude towards practising and performing. Students are coached in prepared solo repertoire and new ensemble pieces. Students attend classes in musical style, interpretation, memorization, technique and performance anxiety. Classes in choir, art, and improvisation are also offered.

The Cassa Piano composer of the year will be Franz Schubert. Students will learn more about the featured composer and will perform a piece written by Schubert during the program.

Guest Artist: Gregg Pauley

Experts: Dr. Laura Bell, Joseph Fridman, Linda Kundert, Darcy van Helden, Dr. Karen Gerelus, Marianne van der Sloot and Carlo Santos.

Instructor/Supervisor: Georgeanne van Helden

Assistant Coaches: Justine Cherry-Delisle, and Maria Bustos

Adult Piano
$349.00

Cassa Adult Piano (for Students Age 18+)

July 14-16, 2026, 9:00am-5:00pm Musicale: Thursday July 16, 2026 at 2:00 pm Brentview Baptist Church

Early Bird Pricing: $349, Registration After June 15: $399

Cassa Adult Piano is an exciting three-day experience for adult pianists to explore the many facets of piano playing in a supportive, fun atmosphere that promotes a positive attitude towards practising and performing.

The Cassa Piano composer of the year will be Franz Schubert. Students will learn more about the featured composer and may perform a piece written by Schubert during the program.

Guest Artist: Gregg Pauley

Experts: Dr. Laura Bell, Joseph Fridman, Linda Kundert, Darcy van Helden, Dr. Karen Gerelus, Marianne van der Sloot and Carlo Santos.

Instructor/Supervisor: Georgeanne van Helden

Assistant Coaches: Justine Cherry-Delisle, and Maria Bustos

The Broader Impact of High-Level Music Education

High-level music education plays a vital role in developing cognitive flexibility, collaboration, and creative leadership. These outcomes align directly with public-interest goals across education, mental health, and workforce readiness.

Cassa Musical Arts embeds these benefits within a creator-first model that supports original musical theatre development. Through mentorship, training, and performance opportunities, young artists gain professional skills while contributing to Canada’s cultural landscape.

Support from partners and funders allows Cassa to reduce barriers to access, support neurodivergent learners, and invest in sustainable pathways for original creation.

The result is not only stronger artists, but stronger systems.

Register for Cassa Musical Arts Programs today!

https://www.cassamusicalarts.com/cassa-musical-arts-programs

Sharing the Sound: Introducing Our New Social Media Manager!

We’re excited to welcome Dr. Karen Gerelus to the Cassa Musical Arts team as our new Social Media Manager!

Karen is passionate about amplifying the voices and stories within Cassa—celebrating music, learning, and the meaningful relationships that grow through our programs.

Be sure to follow us to stay up to date on the latest news and happenings at Cassa!

Welcome Regina Chan, General Manager of Cassa

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with the Cassa Musical Arts community: Regina Chan has joined Cassa as our new General Manager.

Regina’s connection to Cassa runs deep. As a teenager, she attended Cassa Piano Immersive—then known as Piano Camp—an experience that helped shape her lifelong appreciation for music. Years later, that connection has come full circle. Today, Regina’s own children are avid music enthusiasts who attend Cassa programs every year. Her personal journey gives her an authentic, lived understanding of the impact Cassa has on students and families across generations.

Professionally, Regina brings strong leadership experience and an operational mindset to Cassa. As our General Manager, she joins our small but mighty Cassa team to support and deliver creative, high-quality programming for our community and beyond.

Please say hello to Regina at our next event! We’re excited for what lies ahead and we are grateful to continue building, growing, and making music together.