Infinity History
Infinity Visual and Performing Arts, Inc. is a multifaceted, innovative music and arts education program located in Jamestown, NY. The Infinity concept was developed as an opportunity for aspiring young musicians to develop and enhance their creative talents and performance skills under the supervision and guidance of local, professional musicians and educators. The name Infinity was chosen to represent the potential for future growth and participation for youth throughout the community. What began in a parent's living room in 1998 with a group of seven talented young musicians has evolved into a comprehensive visual and performing arts non-profit organization housed in an 8,300 sq. ft. performance and learning center that serves more than 1,000 each year in various program components. In its formative years, Infinity was nurtured under the umbrella of the Arts Council for Chautauqua County. In 2004 a volunteer Board of Directors was formed and with guidance and support from the Arts Council and the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, Infinity was incorporated on January 20, 2005. Federal IRS 501(c)(3) status was achieved October 4, 2005. Infinity's founder, Ron Graham, retired in 2008 after 10 years of service to Infinity and long-time employee Shane Hawkins was promoted to the position of director in 2009. Since 2010, Infinity expanded its offerings to include art, dance and theater experiences and classes, and added 3,300 sq ft to its facility. In 2011, Infinity added adult classes and birth to 5 music and art opportunities.
Infinity provides a unique environment and experience for a broad cross-section of area young people. Program access is guaranteed to any student demonstrating a desire to pursue learning in the visual and performing arts, without regard to gender, ethnicity, social or religious background, prior experience, or ability to pay. Infinity is a place where creative growth is cultivated and nurtured by a networked team of dedicated adult mentors, community supporters and area music and arts professionals.
Infinity Components
- Individual instruction with experienced music, art, dance and theater educators.
- Participation in music ensembles directed by music professionals.
- Unique music and arts workshops and opportunities.
- Access to a fully equipped recording and rehearsal studio.
- Digital recording, audio production and sound technology instruction.
- Access to instruments and equipment based on interest and ability.
- Mentorship from a network of music and arts professionals from our community.
- Opportunities to perform and showcase artistic talent.
Performance Ensembles
One of the most unique and beneficial aspects of Infinity is the student ensemble or band component. Students are directed and mentored by seasoned performers and musicians as they learn a repertoire, practice stage presence, learn music business principles and gain valuable performance experience.
The ensembles are musically diverse and include jazz, blues, rock, alternative, pop, Latin, steel drum, hip-hop, acoustic, folk, classical, world music and a countywide big band. Membership in a performance group requires a strong commitment to rehearsals and personal preparation. Performance venues are as varied and diverse as the music. Infinity bands have performed at Chautauqua Institution, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Great Blue Heron Festival, Buffalo's Memphis Bound Blues Competition, and a variety of festivals, benefits, and special events throughout the county and WNY region.
INSTILL Program (Infinity Network of Students Training for Independent Leadership Level)
The INSTILL Program was created for students who are interested in increasing the amount of time they spend at the Infinity Center outside of regular lesson times. Instill training allows responsible, serious students to achieve "independent" status, enabling them to utilize practice rooms, rehearsal spaces and Infinity spaces during hours that the Center is open, but independent of an Infinity instructor or staff member. (Staff members will always be available for assistance and for general supervision.)
Infinity also has several intern and skills training opportunities available for interested students in a variety of music and arts areas.
Portfolios
Each Infinity student meets with a portfolio coordinator to create a personal portfolio that they work on and add to during their time at Infinity. A portfolio is an excellent way to provide documentation of learning that is taking place, and it illustrates each student's progress and accomplishments.
Why are the arts important?
- Infinity is dedicated to helping kids "Explore! Experience! and Excel!"
- Music and arts education leads to increased self-esteem, confidence, and personal discipline and is beneficial in cognitive, motor, and language development.
- Music, art, dance, and theater classes stimulate memory and imagination.
- Creative activities provide a healthy outlet for emotions, feelings and ideas.
- Involvement in music, visual arts, dance and theater is FUN!
|
|
|
