2024-25 Montverde Academy Fine Arts Conservatories View Book

IT’S WHO WE ARE

Javier Collazo
Lopez ’24
University of Florida
2
One of the most special
things about the Conservatory
program is its individual focus.
Having the same teachers
throughout your journey,
they get to know you as an
artist and your strengths and
weaknesses; helping you
break through walls to achieve
your goals. I truly don’t know
where I would be without
these amazing people and the
exciting path they have set
me on. I can’t wait to see
where this program goes
in the future!

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 2021-24 had 39 students accepted into collegiate programs at schools including
University of Minnesota, Wright State, Berklee, Boston University, University of Miami, USC,
UNCSA, Shenandoah, University of Florida, and PACE 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
Montverde Academy 5

24
All-State
Musicians
(2020-24)
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
75
Superior Ratings
at Solo & Ensemble
Competition
(2020-24)
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.
UNPARALLELED EVENTS
Our students experience a wide variety of programming covering an array of genres produced in
many differing venues. From intimate Salon concerts and recitals, to traditional choral concerts
and competitions, to full-blown Cabarets and All-Conservatory events like our annual Arts Alliance
Exclusive concert and Impromptu Arts Gala; the breadth and depth of our season is unmatched in
a high school setting.
Montverde Academy 7

Jason Tejada
Chancay ’24
Florida State University
Harold S. Schwartz Music
Scholarship Winner
8
As I move into college, I have realized more and
more how similar the Conservatory program is to
a collegiate level music program. I find myself able
to engage in more rigorous coursework from the
beginning and show exactly the type of musician I
am before I even get on campus; someone not only
exceptionally proficient at their instrument, but also
knowledgeable of music theory, history, etc. I give
thanks to this program for that.

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
- Prepare one song of choice. Supply either a recorded accompaniment track or sheet music for
live piano accompaniment at the audition. Audition music can be any style. Choose a piece
that best demonstrates vocal quality, range, and musicality.
- Prepare to sight sing a short passage and repeat back short ear training exercises.
Scan here for audition form
Pianists
- Prepare one scale.
- Perform two contrasting selections from classical or standard repertoire.
Strings (Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass)
- Perform two contrasting selections from the classical repertory or standard contest-type solo.
- Prepare to demonstrate sight reading skills.
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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
10
Top Honors
at Florida ITS
Competition
2019-24
45
Applause Awards
2019-24
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
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.
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
2020-24
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!
9 to 5: The Musical
The Wolves
December Songs
The Miraculous Journey
of Edward Tulane
*DuBois’ Comet
The Winter’s Tale
Sunday in the Park
with George
The Thanksgiving Play
The Last Supper
Oliver!
*First
*The Lady Juliana
Toss Me A Tempest
14
*World Premiere or
commissioned works

Lily
Downs ’24
University of Tampa
Two-time Applause Award for Outstanding Lead
and Runner-Up to the National Jimmy Awards
Being a member of the Theatre
Conservatory has prepared me
in many ways for a theatrical
career ahead. The classes that
are offered within the program
reflect those of many collegiate
institutions across the country
and around the world.
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 auditions are held annually 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 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 & Pointe
- 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
- Science of 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 413 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 the 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
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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 Paz
Director of Dance and Choreography
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance,
University of Florida
Mary Mincy,
Director of Piano Studies
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 32 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), three (2023), three (2024)
• All-National Choir members selected - two (2018)
• Superior ratings earned at District Solo & Ensemble - 75
(2019-24)
• Superior rating at Festival Disney (choir) (2023)
• Superior rating at Orchestra MPA (2023, 2024)
• Excellent rating at Choir MPA (2020, 2022)
• Excellent rating at Orchestra MPA (2020)
• Excellent rating at National Orchestra Festival (2020)
THEATRE
• Superior Ratings at District - 23 (2018), 35 (2019),
20 (2021), 27 (2022), 28 (2023)
• Superior Ratings at Regional - 35 (2020), 20(2021)
• Critic’s Choice Honorable mentions - Two (2018), nine
(2019)
• 31 Critic’s Choice winners (2018-23)
• One Act – 5x repeat advancement to State
(2018-22, 2024)
• Lighting Design – 4x District winner (2018-21)
• Sound Design – 4x District winner (2018-21)
• Technical Crew – 5x District winner (2018-21, 2023)
• 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),
two (2024)
• 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), 69 (2023-24)
• Applause Awards won - 45 (2019-2024)
• National Jimmy Runner-up Nomination - two (2021, 2023)
• Created new version of “Medea” with original scoring
written by MVA Faculty (2019)
• Commissioned new plays “NOISE: A Teenage Panic Attack
on National Themes” (2020), “Time Bros.” (2021), “DuBois’
Comet” (2023), “First” and “The Lady Juliana” (2024)
• 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)
• First-ever International Thespian Society Gold Honors
Troupe in the state of Florida (2024)
Montverde Academy 23

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