Try something new at our first annual

22 FEB 2026 | 2:00 - 5:30 PM

At Westlake United Methodist Church

The 2026 Westlake Music Academy Day Conference is a unique, educational opportunity offered exclusively to WMA students! At this conference, students will sign up for one of six different tracks detailed below. At the conclusion of the day, all of the different tracks (with the exception of the Music in Movement and Performing with Confidence) will perform a song or two that they have prepared as a group! 

Sign up by filling out the form below, or reach out to school phone or email.
Sign up by February 13th to secure your spot!

Read below for more information on each class

2:30 - 4:00 P.M. | $60 per participant

In this class, adult students will learn techniques for combating performance nerves through mental practice, physical activities, and memorization techniques. Come prepared with a solo to try in a relaxed class setting with other adult learners.

Instructor: Clara Engen, B.M., M.M.

Clara Engen teaches at Westlake Music Academy and performs locally in the Cleveland area. Her students are frequent leaders and competition winners with local youth ensembles such as NOYO and CYO, and have been accepted into prestigious college music programs at Boston University, Berklee College of Music, and Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. Clara was recently named 2024 Studio Teacher of the Year by the Ohio String Teachers' Association.

2:00 - 5:30 P.M. with a Group Performance at 5:00 | Cost: $75 per participant

In this session, students will build the foundational skills and understanding required to improvise musically. The class will discuss music analogous to language, something we all improvise with each and every day. Participants will work on developing their ability to hear, recognize and play back simple musical phrases on their instrument. This process will show you how to build your own musical vocabulary! Further discussions will include how to use limitations to build understanding of topics before branching outward (much like a Minecraft map!!). All of this will culminate in a performance including each participant's chance to play an improvised solo on their instrument while playing with other musician(s).

Instructor, John Karkosiak, B.M.

John Karkosiak teaches guitar at Westlake Music Academy, Cleveland State University and Cuyahoga Community College. He also teaches improvisation classes at Cuyahoga Community College. John plays in jazz and ensembles around the northeast Ohio region. 

2:00 - 5:30 P.M. with a Group Performance at 5:00 | Cost: $75 per participant

Experience a glimpse into the life of a professional percussionist with the task of writing and performing percussion for a brand new song! Under the direction of WMA percussion instructor Brian Randall, you will be introduced to various Latin percussion instruments through the practical application of composing for a song. You will start the day with an unfinished song by a local composer, and by the end of the day you'll be ready to join us in a performance of the completed version as an honorary Latin percussionist.

Instructor: Brian Randall, B.M.

Brian Randall studied classical, jazz, and Latin percussion styles for a total of seven university years. He also has experience studying drum part-writing, along with leading or co-leading jazz, funk, fusion, country, Irish, and Latin ensembles. Brian’s greatest passion is passing on the knowledge he received to all levels–from day one beginners, to experienced professionals.

2:00 - 5:30 P.M. with a Group Performance at 5:00 | Cost: $75 per participant

Playing in a rock band is more important for guitarists, bassists, drummers, and vocalists than many realize! As solo instrumentalists, we are generally left out of collaborative spaces that can help with our musical skills in invaluable ways, from learning how to non-verbally communicate in real time with your peers, learning how to play in rhythm with others, to experiencing the satisfaction that comes from putting together a great song with several different instruments. This workshop will build those skills in a fun and collaborative environment. One song will be given in advance to each player, giving them all time to learn on their own, and another will be learned the day of. A band is truly a one of a kind experience that builds character and skill.

Instructor: Tom Ray, B.M., M.M.

Tom Ray teaches guitar at Westlake Music Academy and heads WMA’s rock band camp. He has extensive experience playing heavy metal, classical, rock as well as playing in numerous pit orchestras for musicals.

2:00 - 5:30 P.M. with a Group Performance at 5:00 | Cost: $75 per participant

Calling all singers, and those who want to learn how to sing! This workshop will offer singers ages 8-13 the opportunity to learn more about healthy vocal techniques, stage presence, and aural skills, all of which are key for successful singing. The class will include vocal warm-ups, games, and new songs, all culminating in a final performance!

Instructor: Andy Novak, B.M., M.M.

Andy Novak is the vocal music teacher at Bay Middle School where he directs the choir and the spring musical. He sings with the Cleveland Chamber Choir, Aeternum Chamber Choir and the Trinity Cathedral Choir. Andy also performs in various musicals throughout northeast Ohio.

3:00 - 5:30 P.M. with a Group Performance at 5:00 | Cost: $60 per participant

Eurhythmics is an interactive way for children to learn music by moving. In this class, children will take part in movement games involving physical items and instruments, creative play, singing, and simple improvisation. Activities are designed to be age-appropriate and engaging, helping kids build coordination and confidence while having fun in a welcoming music-filled environment.

Instructor: Alexa Richardson, B.M.

Alexa has over two years of experience observing, assisting, and teaching Eurhythmics and other methods within the Dalcroze system for young children. She uses music and movement to support coordination, creativity, and self-expression. Her teaching approach emphasizes play, exploration, and creating a safe space where children can confidently engage with music through their bodies and voice.