Join life-long Winter Park resident and Central Florida Vocal Arts Executive Director Theresa Smith-Levin as we explore the role that music can play in creating a joyful life for EVERYONE. No previous musical experience is needed.

Following an introductory program on August 24, the classes will be held biweekly beginning in September. You are welcome to stop in for just one class or each time we meet. Classes will explore music-making, listening and understanding. Some of the lesson plans include:

Raise Your Voice

Have you ever watched a child sing and dance with reckless abandon? When was the last time you used your voice so freely? In this class, we will explore our own sound and reflect on what parts of our life keep our creativity inhibited. Through reflection, inspiration and experiential music-making, we will grow to understand why singing and music might feel intimidating, while working together to begin our own musical journey, free of self-judgement.

From Vision to Voice

Art inspires. Art can change lives. This class will begin with visioning our most creative, most joyful life, drawing inspiration through song. Much like affirmations, we will use song as a catalyst for growth and positive change.

Make A Joyful Noise

A creative mind is a healthy mind. Music-making challenges our brains to develop new ways of thinking and neuro-plasticity. In a group setting, we will discover our own unique vocal sound and how by embracing our unique voice, we find self-acceptance and deep joy.

This program is presented by Theresa Smith-Levin and teaching artists from Central Florida Vocal Arts and is hosted by the Winter Park Health Foundation.

About the Presenter:  

Theresa Smith-Levin is the founder and Executive Director of Central Florida Vocal Arts and its sister company, Opera del Sol, whose mission is to create a better Central Florida community through the arts. She is an alumnae of the American Express Women in Music Leadership, Athena NextGen Leadership and Leadership Winter Park, Class 29. She currently serves on the LWP Alumni Council, Park Avenue District Executive Board, the National Association of Teachers of Singing, the Arts and Culture Alliance of Winter Park and the Woman’s Club of Winter Park.

She was also named one of Orlando Family Magazine’s Superwomen of 2022.

Most recently, Theresa was recognized as one of 2023 Winter Park Magazine’s Most Influential and as a finalist for Inspirational Deeva of the Year by Women on the Rise International. She is a sought after producer, performer, director and music director. With her husband Brent, Theresa is proud parent to Bodhi (5) and Beckham (3), who are her greatest inspiration!

Central Florida Vocal Arts is a non-profit music advocacy organization dedicated to providing the highest quality training to young artists, while also providing performance opportunities to currently emerging artists of all ages. We are creating a continuing life cycle for the vocal arts in Central Florida through a three-step model. The first step, Education and Training, introduces young artists to the arts. Through our educational initiatives, we develop students’ talent, passion, and confidence. Next, our Mainstage Productions provide a transition period for students ages 8-18 and pre-professional adults to emerge on stage alongside local professional artists. Our life cycle culminates with Opera del Sol, offering innovative productions in unexpected places and challenging perceptions of who the operatic performer and audience members are and what defines the genre as a whole.

Registration Note:

Please note: As of August 2023, when you register via Eventbrite for community education programs at the Center for Health & Wellbeing, you are now required to accept our Waiver and Release as part of the Eventbrite checkout process. Visit YourHealthandWellbeing.org/waiverandrelease for more details.