And That’s a Wrap on Cassa Musical Arts Summer Programs 2026!

As our 2026 Summer Programs come to a close, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our wonderful participant families for making this summer so special. It has been a joy to share music, creativity, and unforgettable experiences with each of you.

We’re grateful for your enthusiasm, support, and the opportunity to be part of your musical journey.

While summer may be ending, there’s so much more to come! Stay tuned for exciting updates about our 2026–2027 season, including new programs, classes, and events.

In the meantime, be sure to follow us on social media to stay connected and catch all the latest news. If your family enjoyed your experience with Cassa Musical Arts, we’d also be incredibly grateful if you could leave us a Google Review. Your feedback helps other families discover our programs and supports our growing community.

Thank you again for an amazing summer—we can't wait to make music with you again soon!

Congratulations to Ian Quon on His First-Place Finish at the Canada West Music Festival

Congratulations to longtime Cassa Musical Arts Piano Immersive participant Ian Quon on earning First Place at the Canada West Music Festival!

This outstanding achievement is a testament to Ian's dedication, perseverance, and exceptional musical artistry. His commitment to excellence and years of hard work have truly paid off, and we couldn't be more proud of all he has accomplished.

Congratulations, Ian, on this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to celebrating many more of your musical successes in the years ahead. Bravo!

Enjoy an exclusive Sneak Peek Showcase of ENDY-ENTY on July 30!

Enjoy an exclusive Sneak Peek Showcase of ENDY-ENTY, an original new Canadian musical written by two Cassa Musical Arts alumni, Justine Cherry-Delisle and Maria Bustos. Developed through Cassa's commitment to nurturing the next generation of musical theatre creators, the work features an entirely original book, score, and lyrics created by these emerging artists.

Guided by eccentric mentors, mischievous narrators, and a powerful masquerade where nothing is as it seems, Alex and Stevie are forced to confront what it truly means to care for someone: to see them for who they really are.

Filled with humour, imagination, heartfelt storytelling, and an original contemporary score, ENDY-ENTY is a moving celebration of neurodiversity, friendship, empathy, and the courage to live authentically. This special preview offers audiences an early look at this new musical while celebrating the creativity and artistic voices of Cassa's alumni creators.

ENDY-ENTY is an uplifting adventure that reminds us our differences are not obstacles to overcome, but strengths to be understood, embraced, and celebrated.

Tickets: Cassa Musical 2026: The Tragic Tale of Frankenstein
from $20.00

Thursday July 30, 2026 at 7:00pm
GCA Theatre, 16520 24 St SW, Calgary, AB T2Y 4W2
Adult $25, Student/Senior: $20, Family (4-6 members): $60

The Tragic Tale of Frankenstein: Join us for an enlightening adventure and musical hit of the summer!

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.

Book by Simon Rose, Jane Dennison‍ & ‍Meredith Taylor-Parry Music by Tim Janz Lyrics by Jane Dennison Arrangements by Lyudmyla Heath

Own an Original Piece of Cassa History

The Cassa Musical Arts Original Arts Auction

An Art Auction presented by Cassa Musical Arts & Karen Scarlett

Welcome to our online fundraising auction featuring original framed watercolours by acclaimed Alberta artist Karen Scarlett. Created as part of the visual storytelling for recent Cassa Musical productions, each painting is a one-of-a-kind original—a meaningful keepsake for theatre lovers, art collectors, and supporters of the arts.

Every bid supports Cassa Musical Arts and our work developing the next generation of Canadian musical theatre creators. Your generosity helps create opportunities for artistic learning, youth development, and community engagement through music and theatre.

Browse the collection, place your bid, and help bring original stories to life. Each framed painting is "16 x 20”.

Spread the word, invite your friends and family, and help make this auction a success.

Every painting is an original. Every bid makes a difference. Happy bidding!

https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/cassa-musical-arts-auction

Cassa Musical Arts

CRA# 88490 6249 RR0001

Our In-Person Piano Pedagogy Was a Great Success!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our recent In-Person Piano Pedagogy program! It was an inspiring day filled with practical teaching strategies, engaging discussions, and valuable opportunities to connect with fellow piano educators.

If you weren't able to attend in person, there's still an opportunity to be part of the learning.

Join Us Online – July 20–21

Our Online Piano Pedagogy program offers the same high-quality professional development from the comfort of your home. Whether you're looking to refresh your teaching approach, gain new ideas, or connect with a community of piano educators, this online event is designed for you.

Registration is still open!

Register here and secure your spot for July 20–21. We look forward to learning with you online!

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

Thank You, Gregg Pauley, for an Incredible Concert

A heartfelt thank you to Gregg Pauley for delivering such an amazing concert. Every moment reflected incredible talent, passion, and authenticity. Gregg's musicianship, heartfelt storytelling, and genuine connection with the audience made the evening truly special.

We're grateful for the time, effort, and heart that Gregg and everyone involved put into making this concert such a memorable event. Thank you for sharing your gifts.

To everyone who attended, thank you for being part of such a wonderful concert. Your enthusiasm and support made the event even more meaningful.

Cassa Creative Music & Cassa Guitar Are Underway!

The excitement is officially here: our programs at Cassa Creative Music and Cassa Guitar are underway!

Our instructors are thrilled to welcome students as we kick off our very first week of programming. It's been incredible to see so much enthusiasm, curiosity, and excitement from everyone walking through our doors.

This first week marks the beginning of many memorable lessons, new friendships, and musical milestones. We can't wait to watch our students develop their skills, discover their unique voices, and share in the joy that music brings!

To all of our students and families, thank you for joining us and being part of this exciting new chapter. We look forward to making music together this summer!

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with all the fun!

Experience an Unforgettable Evening of Music with Guest Artist Gregg Pauley

This summer, Cassa Musical Arts is delighted to welcome audiences to a very special evening of piano music featuring our 2026 Guest Artist, Gregg Pauley.

Join us on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM at Brentview Baptist Church for a captivating recital showcasing some of the most beloved works in the piano repertoire. Mr. Pauley's program includes Maurice Ravel's Valses nobles et sentimentales, the lyrical Pavane pour une infante défunte, and Franz Schubert's monumental Piano Sonata in B-flat Major, D. 960 - a masterpiece renowned for its profound beauty, depth, and expressive storytelling. Following the performance, guests are invited to stay for a post-concert mingle to meet our faculty, students, mentors, and members of the Cassa community.

Earlier this year, some of our students had the wonderful opportunity to participate in an online masterclass with Gregg Pauley. Students and their families shared how inspiring, encouraging, and insightful the experience was, noting Mr. Pauley's enthusiasm, thoughtful teaching, and ability to help each student discover new musical possibilities. We are thrilled to welcome him back this summer, not only as our featured recital artist, but also as the guest artist leading our piano programs and pedagogy sessions.

Mr. Pauley is an exceptional, world-class pianist whose artistry, musicianship, and dedication to teaching have inspired audiences and students alike. We are incredibly fortunate to have him join the Cassa Musical Arts community this summer, and we look forward to sharing his remarkable talent with our audiences.

By attending this concert, you are also supporting music education in our community. Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, 100% of ticket proceeds directly support Cassa Musical Arts programming, helping us provide meaningful educational opportunities for students of all ages.

Whether you are a lifelong lover of classical music, a supporter of arts education, or simply looking for an inspiring evening out, this concert promises to be a memorable musical experience.

Concert Details

  • Date: Sunday, July 12, 2026

  • Time: 7:00 PM

  • Location: Brentview Baptist Church

  • Tickets: Adults $25 | Students & Seniors $20 | Family (4–6 members) $60

  • Tickets are available online below or at the door.

We hope you'll join us for this special evening of extraordinary music and help support the next generation of musicians through Cassa Musical Arts!

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!


Summer Programs Are Filling Fast!

We are thrilled by the incredible response to our summer programming this year! Thanks to the enthusiasm of our students and families, many of our summer programs have now reached capacity.

If you've already registered, we can't wait to welcome you for an exciting summer of music, creativity, and learning.

There's still time to join us! There are three remaining programs that are open!

🎸 Summer Guitar Program

Whether you're picking up a guitar for the first time or looking to build your skills, our Summer Guitar Program offers a fun, supportive environment where students learn chords, rhythm, songs, and ensemble playing.

🎼 Summer Creative Music Program

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.

🎹 Piano Pedagogy Program

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

  • Session II: The Use of Narrative in Creating a Cohesive Structure

  • Session III: Sound and Listening

  • Session IV: Enrolling Students in High Achievement at the Piano

Register Now!

With many of our other programs already sold out, these remaining spaces are expected to fill quickly. If you've been thinking about joining us this summer, now is the perfect time to secure your spot.

We look forward to making music with you this summer!

Guitar Immersive
$299.00

Cassa Guitar Immersive (Ages 9 - Adult)

July 6-10, 2026 9am-12pm Brentview Baptist Church
Fees: Early bird $249, after June 15 $299

Ignite your passion for music this summer with Cassa Guitar Immersive, a fun and engaging half-day program designed for players at all skill levels. Students will dive deep into the world of guitar through hands-on instruction, creative exploration, and collaborative music-making—all in a supportive environment. 

With small teacher-to-student ratios, each day blends skill-building and creativity, helping students grow in confidence while developing real musical ability. Students will learn proper technique, chords, scales, strumming and picking patterns, rhythm, and music theory, while also exploring improvisation, and ensemble playing.

What Students Will Experience

  • Daily guitar instruction tailored to skill level

  • Learning popular songs across multiple styles

  • Rhythm training and ensemble playing

  • Music games and creative challenges

  • Performance skills and confidence building

The week culminates in a casual showcase, where students get the chance to perform for friends and family to celebrate their progress.

Whether you are picking up a guitar for the first time or ready to take their playing to the next level, this immersive program offers the perfect mix of learning, creativity, and summer fun!

Expert: Brett Gunther

Creative Music
$399.00

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

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

What a Wonderful Casting Workshop!

Last week, we had the pleasure of welcoming so many enthusiastic participants and families to our Casting Workshop, and what a fantastic time it was!

From the moment everyone walked through the doors, the energy, excitement, and anticipation for the musical program was contagious. It was wonderful to meet new faces, reconnect with returning participants, and watch everyone share their talents, creativity, and enthusiasm throughout the event.

Events like our Casting Workshop remind us why we love what we do. Seeing so many eager participants ready to learn, grow, and work together to put on an amazing show makes us even more excited for the weeks ahead.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event such a success. We appreciate the trust families place in us and are grateful for the opportunity to be part of each participant's summer journey.

We are counting down the days until the program begins and cannot wait to welcome everyone back soon. We have an incredible summer planned, filled with exciting activities, new experiences, creative challenges, and plenty of opportunities to make lasting memories.

See you soon! We're looking forward to an amazing summer together!

Summer Piano Intensive at the University of Lethbridge

Looking for more piano summer music experience? Our friends at the University of Lethbridge are inviting piano enthusiasts to participate in their Piano Intensive Program, taking place July 5–11.

The program includes on-campus accommodations for just $50 per night, with dinner provided each evening, making it a convenient and affordable option for students traveling from outside the area.

For more information, please see the attached flyer or visit the University of Lethbridge Summer Programs page.

Summer Programs | University of Lethbridge

Register Before June 15 and Save on Your Summer Music Adventure!

Summer is almost here, and there’s still time to secure your spot in one of Cassa Musical Arts’ exciting 2026 summer programs. Be sure to register before June 15, 2026 to take advantage of early bird pricing and reserve your place before programs fill up! Many Cassa programs offer discounted registration rates until June 15, making now the perfect time to plan an inspiring summer of music, creativity, and performance.

Whether you love piano, guitar, composing, singing, acting, dancing, designing, or music education, Cassa has a program designed for you. This summer's offerings include Piano Immersive, Online Piano Immersive, Adult Piano, Guitar Immersive, Creative Music, Musical Theatre, and Piano Pedagogy workshops led by outstanding guest artists and expert instructors.

Participants will enjoy hands-on learning, performance opportunities, creative exploration, and mentorship in a welcoming and supportive environment. With programs available for children, teens, adults, and teachers, there is something for every stage of the musical journey.

Don't wait until the last minute! Register before June 15 to save on tuition and ensure your place in the programs that interest you most.

Visit Cassa Musical Arts to learn more and register today.

We can't wait to make music with you this summer!

Join Us for the Cassa Musical Theatre Open House & Audition!

Summer musical theatre season is almost here, and we can't wait to get started! Whether you are already registered or simply curious about joining, everyone is invited to attend the Cassa Musical Theatre Open House & Casting Workshop!

  • Date: Tuesday, June 16, 2026

  • Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

  • Location: Fish Creek Library – First Floor Program Room

This fun and informal event is a great opportunity for students to meet new friends, connect with our creative team, and learn more about this summer's exciting production. Participants are welcome to showcase their talents in singing, dancing, acting, and/or design, but most importantly, come ready to have fun and explore the world of musical theatre.

The Open House operates on a drop-in basis, so families may arrive between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. New participants are welcome, and friends are encouraged to attend. Registration will be available on site for anyone who would like to join the program.

At Cassa Musical Theatre, we believe every student has something special to contribute, whether on stage, behind the scenes, or as part of our creative community. We look forward to welcoming both returning and new participants as we kick off another exciting summer filled with creativity, learning, friendship, and performance.

We hope to see you there!

Musical Theatre
$469.00

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. ‍

Our Open House and Casting Workshop is coming up:

  • Date: Tuesday, June 16, 2026

  • Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

  • Location: Fish Creek Library - First Floor Program Room

What to expect:

  • Students will be invited to showcase their talents in singing, dancing, acting, and/or design.

  • Come between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

  • Bring a friend (or friends!). New friends may register on site.

More information about the Open House & Casting Workshop is available here: www.cassamusicalarts.com/about-us/news/you-are-invited-to-cassas-open-house-and-casting-workshop

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, Lillith Mitchell

Assistant Coaches: Justine Cherry-Delisle, Tess Coleman

Mentors: Eleanor Reckseidler, Abram Schwonik, Jordan Runions and Savannah King

Mentors-in-Training: Ruby Cassam, Sofia Dennison, Kaslyn Chan, Luke Giardino, Aiden Heath, Hiyab Zeru and Sophia Roggensack

Save the Date - Cassa Concert – July 12, 2026

Pianist Gregg Pauley performs an unforgettable program featuring Ravel’s Valses nobles et sentimentales and Pavane pour une infante défunte, alongside Schubert’s Piano Sonata in B-flat Major, D. 960.

Generously supported by sponsors, 100% of proceeds from this concert support Cassa programs. Stay for the post-concert mingle and connect with our vibrant musical community.

Join us for the Cassa Concert on July 12, 2026 at 7:00pm, held in-person at Brentview Baptist Church!

Missed Cassa Piano Immersive This Summer? There’s Still Time to Join Us!

Did you miss the opportunity to join us for Cassa Piano Immersive this summer? Don’t worry - there’s still another chance to grow, learn, and be inspired with us!

This season, we’re excited for you to continue learning through both our Online Piano Immersive and Piano Pedagogy programs. Whether you are a teacher or student, we have something designed just for you.

You’ll have the opportunity to learn from Mr. Gregg Pauley along with our other incredible instructors who are passionate about helping students develop artistry, confidence, and musical excellence.

Online Piano Immersive

Our Online Piano Immersive offers flexible, high-quality instruction accessible from anywhere. Students will enjoy:

  • Interactive masterclasses

  • Practice and performance strategies

  • Musical interpretation coaching

  • Inspiring sessions with experienced instructors

  • A supportive musical community

This program is perfect for students who want to continue progressing throughout the summer while learning in an engaging online environment.

Adult Piano Immersive

Designed specifically for adult learners, our Adult Piano Immersive provides a welcoming and encouraging space to develop your skills and deepen your love for music. Whether you are returning to piano after years away or continuing your musical journey, this immersive experience offers:

  • Personalized instruction

  • Collaborative learning opportunities

  • Performance experiences

  • Motivation and inspiration from expert faculty

No matter your level, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, encouraged, and musically inspired.

Join Us This Summer!

There’s still time to be part of an unforgettable summer of music-making and growth. We would love to welcome you into our piano community!

Read more about our programs below and join us this summer!

Online Piano Immersive
$399.00

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

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

The Only Things Heavier than our Pianos are our Students’ Practice Schedules...

Cassa Musical Arts was founded in 1993 by a dedicated group of Calgary music teachers in collaboration with a local piano dealer. Since then, we have remained committed to providing students with exceptional musical experiences by working with some of the finest piano dealers and instruments in Calgary.

We are proud to continue our partnership with Steinway Piano Gallery, along with our trusted local piano movers, whose support helps make our piano programs possible each summer. Long before students arrive for the first day of classes, there is extensive behind-the-scenes preparation to ensure every teaching and performance space is equipped with outstanding instruments.

From careful piano selection and transportation to setup and tuning, these partnerships play an essential role in creating a high-quality learning environment for our students and faculty.

Join us this summer and experience the joy of performing and learning on some of the finest instruments generously provided through our partnership with Steinway Piano Gallery!

Cassa Piano Programs Feature Composer Franz Schubert

This summer at Cassa Musical Arts, piano students will step into the musical world of Franz Schubert! Known for his beautiful melodies, expressive piano music, and unforgettable musical storytelling, Schubert’s works continue to delight musicians of all ages.

Throughout our summer piano programs, students will explore and perform music by Schubert while discovering what makes his compositions so unique. From lyrical melodies to lively dances and imaginative character pieces, Schubert’s music offers students the chance to develop artistry, expression, and creativity at the piano.

Did you know?

  • Franz Schubert was incredibly productive — he composed over 1,000 works during his lifetime, even though he lived to be only 31 years old!

  • Schubert loved gathering with friends for musical evenings called “Schubertiades,” where people would sing, play music, and celebrate the joy of music together.

  • He wrote more than 600 songs, which helped make him one of the most famous song composers in classical music history.

Join us this summer as we celebrate the music of Franz Schubert through inspiring classes, performances, and musical discovery!

Calling All Piano Teachers and Advanced Piano Students!

Cassa Piano Pedagogy topics have been announced, and registration is now open! Cassa Musical Arts is excited to welcome renowned clinician and piano teacher Gregg Pauley to lead this year’s inspiring pedagogy workshops.

Designed for piano teachers and advanced piano students, these workshops offer valuable insight into teaching strategies, musicianship, interpretation, and piano performance practice. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from Gregg Pauley’s extensive experience as both an educator and performer in an engaging and supportive environment.

Both online and in-person options are available, making it easy to participate from wherever you are.

This year’s pedagogy workshop topics are as follows:

  • 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.

Spaces are limited, so register your spot today:
https://www.cassamusicalarts.com/cassa-musical-arts-programs/piano-pedagogy

Thank You AMEF for Supporting Music Education at Cassa

We are deeply grateful to the Alberta Music Education Foundation (AMEF) for their generous support through a recent grant awarded to Cassa. This contribution plays a meaningful role in helping us continue to provide high-quality musical experiences and educational opportunities within our community.

Cassa is especially thankful not only for this financial support, but for the longstanding relationship we have built with AMEF over the years. Their continued commitment to fostering musical growth in Alberta communities has made a lasting difference, and we are proud to be among the many organizations they have supported.

We look forward to continuing this partnership and to furthering our shared mission of making music education accessible, meaningful, and inspiring for all.