2023-24 Montverde Academy Fine Arts Conservatories View Book

Unlike any other.

Aidan
Fracker ’21
Wright State University
Applause Award for Outstanding Performer
Runner-Up to the National Jimmy Awards
The Conservatory has
let me hone my craft and
take risks that not many
other places have let
me take. The complete
immersion into my study
has made me that much
more confident in myself
as a young artist.
2

CREATIVE. DEDICATED.
The Montverde Academy Arts program is the creative center of the Academy. We provide
student-artists with hands-on learning, and opportunities to showcase their achievements
through exhibits, productions, recitals, and concerts - many of which are open to both our
community and the public.
The classes of 2021-23 had 29 students accepted into collegiate programs at schools including
University of Minnesota, SCAD, Wright State, Berklee, Boston University, University of Miami,
USC, UNCSA, Shenandoah, and Roosevelt University to pursue degrees in subjects such
as music performance, theatre performance, production design, acting, theatre arts, and
scenic design.
100%
College
Acceptance
Rate
What do you want to study?
100%
Of Fine Arts Faculty
Hold Advanced
Degrees
3.80
Average
Conservatory
Graduate GPA
Montverde Academy 3

Become a part of a Fine Arts Conservatory program that combines
detailed, performance-based training with a world-class educational
experience in a diverse community of student-artists.
Discover the Arts!
Montverde Academy offers a Music Conservatory,
a Theatre Conservatory, and a Dance Conservatory for
those students wishing to pursue excellence in their
chosen discipline.
- Six mainstage theatre productions per year
- 50+ yearly performances
- 8:1 student/faculty ratio
- Master classes
4

MUSIC CONSERVATORY
Student-artists begin a life changing path in the Montverde Academy Music Conservatory that includes group
and individual music studies along with a vigorous college preparatory education. Student-artists can look
forward to lessons and classes taught by a group of highly talented and skilled professionals.
Find out about the
Music Conservatory
- Sight Singing and Aural Training
- Advanced Placement Music Theory
- Private lessons
- Studio
- Piano and Theory
- Practice time
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21
All-State
Musicians
(2020-23)
SOLOIST. ENSEMBLIST. COMPOSER.
The Montverde Academy Music Conservatory addresses all three sides of the musician through
a highly specialized curriculum designed especially for the serious music student. Through a
sequential series of core courses and extracurricular activities, we train students to:
- Build technical vocal and instrumental skills
- Think and notate sound
- Analyze music literature and history
- Manipulate sound through technology
- Adopt healthy mental and physical musical habits
70
Superior Ratings
at Solo & Ensemble
Competition
(2020-23)
6
500+
Hours of
Instruction
Per Year
Student Learning
Experience
Technical skills for
producing sound
Thinking in sound
Notating sound
Literature of music
Technology of
manipulating sound
Culture and lifestyle
of a musician
Course of Primary Instruction
Private lessons
Orchestra
Choir
Progressive Class Piano
Sight Singing and Aural skills
Intro to Theory
AP Music Theory
Beginning Piano
Composition
Music History and Literature
Music Technology
Music Wellness
Individual Practice

VISITING ARTISTS
Master Classes provide student-artists in the Conservatory program with immersive learning
experiences from visiting experts from around the world. Classes have included:
- Stephanie Henkle, instructor at Denison University, past President of the National Association
of Teachers of Singing
- Dr. Joel Phillips, professor of composition and music theory at Westminster Choir College of
Rider University, former chief faculty consultant for the advanced placement examination in
music theory
- Jieming Tang, student at the Juilliard School, former concertmaster of the National Youth
Orchestra of China
- Callisto Quartet, winners of the 2018 Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition, the
Graduate String Quartet in Residence at the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University
- Routa Kroumovitch-Gomez, professor of violin at Stetson University, recording artist from the
former USSR
- David Bjella, professor of cello at the University of Central Florida, Co-principal of the IRIS
Orchestra in Memphis, TN, former member of the Inman Piano Trio
Montverde Academy 7

Josue Torres
Chock ’23
University of Miami
One hundred percent college placement of students
continuing the pursuit of their chosen Art.
8

PREPARING FOR YOUR AUDITION
The Conservatory program welcomes student-artists whose ability and dedication to excellence ensure their
commitment to the program in their chosen areas of study. With limited spaces available each year, it is
important that applicants make a lasting, positive impression during their audition.
- Concert attire such as smart business wear
- Piano accompaniment
- Scan the audition music
- Email music to conservatory@montverde.org
- Must be emailed at least seven days before the audition date
Vocalists
- Perform one memorized art song (bring sheet music for the accompanist)
- Back up tracks and acappella singing are not allowed at auditions
- Pop or similar styles of vocal music are not acceptable audition pieces
Scan here for audition form
Pianists
- Perform two contrasting selections from classical or standard repertoire
- Perform one scale which best displays technical and musical accomplishments
Strings (Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass)
- Perform two contrasting selections chosen from standard string literature, with or without accompaniment
- Be prepared to play scales which are equal to the student’s level of training.
Sight Reading
- Sight reading skills on the student’s instrument are required to be performed during the audition
- Adjudicators will provide the sight reading selections
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6+
Mainstage
productions
per school
year
4
Consecutive Years
of Mainstage
productions
to State ITS
THEATRE CONSERVATORY
The Theatre Conservatory at Montverde Academy is an intense training program in which
student-artists master advanced performing arts techniques that provide a foundation which
builds versatility to perform in every aspect of theatre.
- Master performing arts advanced techniques
- Six or more productions per year
- Tracks in Theatre, Musical Theatre, Technical Theatre
- Acting, voice, and movement training
- Hands-on experience
1
Selection
at International
ITS Festival
2021
8
Top Honors
at Florida ITS
Competition
2019-23
31
Applause Awards
2019-23
Find out about our
award-winning Theatre
Conservatory
10

TAKE THEATRE TO THE NEXT LEVEL
Choose a specialized path within the Conservatory through tracks in
Theatre, Musical Theatre or Technical Theatre. Our training teaches
student-artists to not merely act a theatrical role, but to live it. Command
of intense emotions like terror, ecstasy and grief provides student-artists
with the power to hush a crowded theatre, and comic skills will fill it with
laughter. In addition, studying behind-the-scenes skills like set design
and lighting builds a technical portfolio.
Student-artists are supported by an energized community of working
professional artists and designers who share their expertise,
experiences and passion for the art of theatre. Our faculty, staff and
students work toward a common goal of creating an environment that
encourages artistic, intellectual and personal growth.
Larissa
Foxx ’22
Boston University
Applause Awards Senior Scholarship Winner
During my time in conservatory I was working
on productions akin to professional ones, often
better. There are endless opportunities provided
to you. I won’t even pretend my experience wasn’t
challenging - but it was enriching especially for
people like me whose interests might not always
fall into a specific “track.” I truly feel I am going
into college with a BFA... that is the level of
preparation I acquired.
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COMMITMENT
The Theatre Conservatory requires a high level of commitment. The program emphasizes
preparation, collaboration and exploration. In addition to core academic classes, student-artists are
immersed in a program of weekly workshops, intensives and concentrated acting, movement, music
and/or tech classes taught by both Montverde Academy faculty and professional guest artists.
The four-year course of study provides a multi-dimensional experience that captures the breadth
and depth of theatre as an art form and exposes students to historical, contemporary, social,
multicultural and cutting-edge concepts in theatre through:
- Active involvement as creators and evaluators of theatre arts and guaranteed casting in a minimum
of two productions per season
- Skill enhancement through work on school productions
- Participation in competitions in Thespian Festivals with solos, scenes and technical entries
- Creation of a portfolio and audition pieces to prepare for college auditions
- Senior year concludes in free play and a student-led performance-based presentation/portfolio review
Theatre Conservatory students graduate as trained actors with artistic integrity and shared
standards of excellence, as well as critical thinkers, leaders and advocates for the theatre arts.
12

Sydney
Barker ’23
Shenandoah University
Being in the Conservatory has not
only given me space to grow as
an actress, but also as a person.
I’ve learned critical skills such as
professionalism, communication,
responsibility, and perseverance.
I thank the Conservatory for
providing me and my peers such
a loving and safe environment
to improve our craft.
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STUDY AND PERFORM.
Each day student-artists are immersed in a rigorous balance of world-class academics and
professional training that prepares them with the knowledge, experience, and skill-set that will
last a lifetime.
In addition to core academic classes, student-artists are immersed in a program of weekly workshops,
intensive and concentrated acting, movement, music, and/or technical classes.
14
Music Lessons
Technical Theatre
Dance/
Movement
Morning Academic Classes
- 31+ AP ® classes
- 11 Honors Classes
Afternoon Theatre Classes
Musical
Theatre
Acting
Dramaturgy
Theatre History
& Mainstage
Production
2018-23
PERFORMANCES
The Secret Garden
*Time Bros.
*Stone
The Sound of Music
Twelve Angry Jurors
Clybourne Park
Edges
Smokey Joe’s Café
*NOISE
Macbeth
Something Rotten!
The Hunchback of
Notre Dame
The Glass Menagerie
*Medea
Mamma Mia!
She Loves Me
Next to Normal
Into the Woods
Romeo & Juliet
9 to 5: The Musical
The Wolves
December Songs
The Miraculous Journey
of Edward Tulane
*DuBois’ Comet
The Winter’s Tale
*World Premiere or
commissioned works

Lily
Downs ’24
Applause Award for Outstanding Lead and
Runner-Up to the National Jimmy Awards
Being a student in the Theatre
Conservatory has helped me
grow as an actress. Through
valuable teaching, constructive
rehearsals, and new friendships,
joining this amazing program was
one of the best decisions I’ve
ever made.
Montverde Academy 15

PREPARING FOR YOUR THEATRE AUDITION
The Conservatory program welcomes student-artists whose ability and dedication to excellence
ensure their commitment to the program in their chosen areas of study. With limited spaces
available each year, it is important that applicants make a lasting, positive impression during
their audition.
Audition Requirements
Theatre Conservatory are held twice a year for incoming students in grades 9 or 10
- Students in grades 11 or 12 may petition the Director of Arts for consideration
- Submit a current head shot/photo and resume
- Prepare two contrasting one minute monologues OR one monologue and 16 bars of a musical
theatre piece (for Musical Theatre students)
- Tech students will have a 10-minute interview and will present a portfolio of previous
experience in tech or creative art work
- Two recommendations from prior director and/or English or drama teachers
Audition Dates
Auditions are held annually in February.
If an alternate audition date is needed,
please contact the Director of Arts at
conservatory@montverde.org.
Scan here for
audition form
16

DANCE CONSERVATORY
With its inaugural year in the 2023-24 school year, the Dance Conservatory at Montverde Academy is
designed to parallel the Music and Theatre Conservatories as an intensive experience for those students seeking
to elevate their dance technique to a level designed for further study at a collegiate or professional dance level.
Students will receive comprehensive technique in:
- Ballet
- Tap
- Jazz
- Modern
- Creative Movement and Choreography
Students will also take academic classes to enhance
their overall development including:
- Acting 1
- Stagecraft 1
- Music Skills 1
- Musical Theatre History
- History of Dance
- Kinesiology and Anatomy for Dance
Find out about the
Dance Conservatory
17
Montverde Academy 17

AUDITIONING FOR DANCE
The Conservatory program welcomes student-artists whose ability and dedication to excellence
ensure their commitment to the program in their chosen areas of study. With limited spaces
available each year, it is important that applicants make a lasting, positive impression during
their audition.
Audition Requirements
- The Dance Conservatory is for incoming students in grades 9 or 10
- Students in grades 11 or 12 may petition the Director of Arts for consideration
- Submit a current head shot/photo and resume
- Prepare a short (3 - 5 minute) combination demonstrating at least two different disciplines
chosen from: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern
- Recommendation from a current or previous dance instructor
- A short Dance Call will follow to demonstrate ability to pick up steps/instruction
Audition Dates
Auditions are held annually in February,
but alternate audition dates are available
by contacting the Director of Arts at
conservatory@montverde.org.
Scan here for
audition form
18

FINE ARTS BUILDING
- Seats up to 417 people
- Acting classrooms
- Art rooms
- Rehearsal space
- Dance studio
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FACILITIES
Along with the Fine Arts Auditorium, the
Conservatory has a dedicated 12,000 square
foot Center for Media and Performing Arts.
First Floor
- Instrumental music hall
- Private rehearsal rooms
- Storage areas for music and instruments
- Music production lab
Second Floor
- Choral music hall
- Piano/lab classroom
- Audio recording studio
20

APPLY NOW
Montverde Academy offers continuous enrollment. We admit students of any race, color, national, and ethnic origin to all
the rights, privileges, programs, and activities made available to students at the Academy. Montverde Academy does not
discriminate on the basis of disability, race, national, and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies,
admission policies, athletic, and other school-administered programs.
Steps to Apply
- To apply online, click on Admissions at montverde.org
- Provide required documents
- For a list of required documents by grade/student type visit
- Application process at montverde.org
- Submit standardized testing
- Grades 6-10 submit:
- Secondary Admission Test (SSAT) or
- PSAT
- ISEE
- International applicants grades 6-10 must submit
one of the following
- TOEFL
- IELTS
- DET
- Applicants grades Pre-K3-5 must schedule an assessment.
- Lower School application deadline is Dec. 31
montverde.org
Schedule your tour today!
Montverde Academy 21

FACULTY AND STAFF
Dean Bell, Director of Arts
Bachelor of Music Education, The University of Toledo
Master of Music in Music Education,
The University of Toledo
Mater of Education in Educational Leadership,
The University of Cincinnati
Daniela Monzon Villegas
Vocal Instructor - Music & Theatre
Bachelor of Music Education,
Southern Adventist University
Master of Arts in Music,
University of Central Florida
David Ian Lee, Director of Theatre
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting & Directing,
University of Arizona
Master of Fine Arts in Directing,
Illinois State University
Adrian Wright-Ahern,
Middle School Theatre Instructor
Bachelor of Liberal Arts, The New School
Master of Education, Rollins College
Aubrey Connelly-Candelario
Director of Vocal Music
Bachelor of Arts in Music, Rollins College
Master of Music Education, University of Florida
Andres Villa, Director of Strings
Bachelor of Music in Violin & Viola Performance,
Florida International University
Master of Music in Strings Performance,
Florida International University
Michael Citrinite
Technical Director
Valencia College
Jessica Birt
Director of Dance and Choreography
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance,
University of Florida
Mary Mincy,
Piano Instructor & Accompanist
Bachelor of Science in Communications
and Music, University of Evansville
Master of Education in Educational/Instructional
Technology, American College of Education
22

AWARD WINNING ACCOMPLISHMENTS
MUSIC
• Premiered one new choral work and one new string
orchestra work (2018-19)
• Florida Keys International Competition for Young
Talent winners – three, with performances at
Carnegie Hall (2018-19)
• Produced the Opera “Bastien et Bastienne” (2019)
• Hosted over 30 master classes (2018-23)
• Hosted and performed with international vocalists
Ben Gulley, Goitsemang Lehobye, Callie Day and
Daniel Emmet
• Hosted and performed with renowned electric
violinist, Mark Wood (2022)
• Performance by all choirs at America Sings!
festival (2019)
• All-State musicians selected - four (2019),
six (2020), seven (2021), five (2022)
• All-National Choir members selected - two (2018)
• Superior ratings earned at District Solo & Ensemble
- 18 (2019), 30 (2021), 15 (2022), seven (2023)
• Superior rating at Festival Disney (choir) (2023)
• Excellent rating at Choir MPAA (2020, 2022)
• Excellent rating at Orchestra MPAA (2020)
• Excellent rating at National Orchestra Festival (2020)
THEATRE
• Superior Ratings at District - 23 (2018), 35 (2019),
20 (2021), 27 (2022)
• Superior Ratings at Regional - 35 (2020), 20(2021)
• Critic’s Choice Honorable mentions - Two (2018),
nine (2019)
• 19 Critic’s Choice winners (2018-22)
• One Act – 5x repeat advancement to State
(2018-22)
• Lighting Design – 4x District winner (2018-21)
• Sound Design – 4x District winner (2018-21)
• Technical Crew – 4x District winner (2018-21)
• Lead Actress – 4x District winner (2018-21)
• Supporting Actor – 3x District winner (2019-21)
• District 12 Representative to perform at Opening
Ceremonies of State Festival (2020)
• Top Honors at State - four (2019), two (2021, 2022)
• Four Mainstage Productions accepted for State -
“She Loves Me” (2019), “The Glass Menagerie”
(2020), “Clybourne Park” (2021), “Stone” (2022)
• Accepted as a Mainstage Production for the
International Thespian Festival - “Clybourne Park”
(2021)
• Applause Award nominations - 43 (2018-19),
38 (2019-20), 33 (2021-22), 45 (2022-23)
• Applause Awards won - five (2019-2023)
• National Jimmy Runner-up Nomination - two (2021,
2023)
• Created new version of “Medea” with original
scoring written by MVA Faculty (2019)
• Commissioned new play “NOISE: A Teenage Panic
Attack on National Themes” (2020)
• Commissioned new play “Time Bros.” (2021)
• Student play: “God Bless America” chosen for
production at Dr. Phillips Center Be Original theatre
festival (2019)
• Student play: “Sockloose” chosen for production
at Children’s Theatre of New Jersey (2023)
Montverde Academy 23

17235 Seventh Street, Montverde, Florida 34756
montverde.org | mvasports.com | 407.469.2561