Personal Enrichment Course Schedule

For questions about any of these classes or how to register, please contact Lisa Webb at 252.493.7317 or lwebb@email.pittcc.edu.

Arts/Creative

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Computer/Technology

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Dance

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Financial Planning

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In the Kitchen

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Language

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Leisure Activities

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Music

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Safety

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Course Descriptions

AAA Roadwise

Pitt County Safe Communities Coalition in conjunction with Pitt Community College offer the AAA approved Roadwise course. This course covers a variety of topics for drivers ages 50+. Pre-registration and payment are required. Note: Completion of this course in no way guarantees any privileges or rights under NC applicable law. 4 hours.  

 All About Patterns

Students will get a full tour of the outside envelope and then learn how to purchase all that is needed to complete the pattern project from diagrams to instructions. 2 hours. $29.

B4U Sew

Students will learn about fabric, sewing terminology, how to read a pattern, how to measure for proper fitting, basic hand sewing stitches, and finally there will be a total discussion and demonstration on a sewing machine. Instructor: Elizabeth Weidner. 8 hours. $49. 

Basic Computer Skills

The objective of the Basic Computer Skills class is to provide students with basic knowledge of Microsoft Office applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. There will also be opportunities to provide other computer skills based on the needs of the students. 10 hours. $49.

Basic Pistol

You will be introduced to the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary for owning and using a pistol safely. You will learn about pistol parts and operation, ammunition, gun safety, pistol shooting fundamentals, and pistol shooting activities. If you are bringing your own gun to the range, you must provide your own factory ammo. If you are “renting” from the instructor, you will need to bring $40 cash to the class to pay the instructor for ammunition. Also bring safety glasses and hearing protection. Classroom portion held at the Greenville Center. Upon registration, you will receive an email with instructions. For further questions, contact Lisa Webb at 493-7317. Instructor: Robert James. 9 hours. 

Beginner’s Kayaking

This class will introduce you to the fundamentals of kayaking in a comfortable setting and at a relaxed pace. You will learn about proper strokes and paddling techniques and get the chance to practice those new skills at the beautiful Wildwood Park. Riverside Recreation’s ACA Certified Instructors will also teach the basics of water safety, trip planning, and how to have an enjoyable time on the water. This is a great way to build a new skill set or improve upon what you already know about kayaking. Riverside Recreation provides kayaks, paddles, and all necessary safety equipment. Riverside Recreation. 5 hours. $99.55

Beginner’s Tandem Kayaking

This class will introduce you to the fundamentals of maneuvering a tandem kayak. You will learn about proper strokes and paddling techniques and get the chance to practice those new skills at the beautiful Wildwood Park. Riverside Recreation’s ACA Certified Instructors will also teach the basics of water safety, trip planning, and how to have an enjoyable time on the water. This is a great way to build a new skill set or improve upon what you already know about kayaking. Riverside Recreation provides kayaks, paddles, and all necessary safety equipment. Riverside Recreation. 5 hours. $99.55

Beginner’s Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Spend time on the water and learn everything you need to get started in the sport of Stand Up Paddle Boarding. You’ll be introduced to the basic strokes and receive personalized instruction to improve your balance and comfort on the board. We will cover important gear and safety concepts before we practice moving from a seated position, to a kneeling position, and to a standing position, remounting our board after falling (or jumping!) in the water, along with basic paddle strokes. This is a great way to build a new skill set or improve upon what you already know about paddle boarding. Paddle boards, paddles, and safety equipment are provided! This is a great class to take in preparation for SUP Yoga. Riverside Recreation. 5 Hours. $99.55

 Sewing: Making a Bag

Students will take what they learned in the B4USew class and possibly the Master Your Sewing Machine and create a bag.  This class will be enjoyable and …well…FUN! Supply list: Simple tote/bag pattern Fabric,Interfacing for handles Thread, Basic Sewing kit, Sheers andSewing Machine. 6 hours. $49. 

Master the Sewing Machine 

Students will learn the parts of the sewing machine and how a stitch is made!  Take a tour of the accessories that come with the basic sewing machine, using them manual for your machine.  Learn proper needles and threads to use alone with basic machine maintenance.  Learn how to perform a basic cleaning for the bobbin area of the machine.  Learn other trouble-shooting for your machine, when to change the needle, when to rethread your machine, how to check for tension adjustments.  Driving lessons, how to pivot, sew a straight line, and much more.  Instructor: Elizabeth Weidner. 6 hours. $39.

 Super Savvy 

This class is perfect for anyone getting behind the computer for the first time. Even if you have used a computer but are not sure what to do, this class is for you! This simple computer skills class focuses on your level of knowledge and builds your skills. At the end of this course, we hope that you will feel more tech savvy. Instructor: Starlena Fornis. 28 hours. $79

 Tablet Techniques  

Do you have a new tablet and not sure what to do or thinking of purchasing? Join us for a brief class on learning the basics of a tablet. Tablets will be provided to students during this class. Topics will include, but not limited to MS Apps, camera tips, use of internet and how to communicate on your tablet. Instructor: Melissa Davis. 3 hours.  $39.

Introduction to Interior Design

In this introduction overview, students will learn what it means to be a designer/decorator and what the role is all about. Topics that will be covered, are. Budgeting, online presence, networking, and organization. Resources such as color theory, lighting, space planning, drawing and rendering, concept boards as well as design projects. A list of materials the student will need on the first night of class will be emailed to the student in advance. 8 hours.  $79.

Introduction to Jewelry Making

In this class, students will learn how to start and finish a piece, determine length, weight of the wires, and what to use. You will also learn how to recycle your old jewelry into a brand new piece using your beads. Each class you will learn how to make necklaces and earrings. A kit from Amazon will be required by the student on the first night of class. A link will be sent to you once registered. This class is in partnership with the Greenville Museum of Art. 2 hours.  $29.

Level Up Your Leadership

Individuals have a unique opportunity to work with a Certified Life coach and NLP Practitioner who has achieved elite status in her company. She has extracted proven strategies that work in the business world and adapted them into a format that is compatible and enjoyable for adults at any stage of life. This class is ideal for entrepreneurs, managers, corporate leaders as well as parents who feel out of control and want to calm the chaos. Topics include: How to deal with fear and anxiety, How to be a confident leader, Communication skills, Effective time management, and more. Instructor: Rhonda Cimorelli. 12 hours.  $149

Line Dance

Come on out and learn line dances to all types of music from Southern Soul, R&B, and to Country music! This course starts with the basic steps of line dancing. Bring/wear your tennis shoes and comfortable clothing. Instructor: Laura Daniels. 8 hours.  $39.55

Sweetheart Cooking Class  

Join Chef Metisia for a couple Valentine’s Day dinner inspired cooking session. Learn fun cooking techniques in a group setting for either a date day class or getting to cook a great dish to surprise your significant other!  Learn how to create flavorful colorful dishes that will excite you and your sweetie’s taste buds. You will leave with recipes and ideas on how to recreate this meal on Valentine’s Day for each other and have fun in the kitchen. Join us for this special date night session. Ingredient list will be emailed to students the week of the class. Instructor: Metisia Wooten  2 hours. $20.

Easter Dinner Cooking Class 

Join Chef Metisia for a fun creative Easter Dinner inspired cooking session. Whether you’re having a huge family gathering or intimate meal at home, flavor and fun are always on the menu when creating a tasty Easter Meal. You will leave with recipes and ideas that will help you create colorful side dishes and put your own flare on your creation. Ingredient list will be emailed to students the week of the class. Instructor: Metisia Wooten. 2 hours.  $20.

Summer Cold Treats

Join us to cool down for summer cold treats! These recipes will be sure to cool you off but possibly sweeten you up! $39.55.

Tailgate Treats

Football will be around the corner so join us for your tailgate traditions, whether you are at home or at the game! This class will be sure to make your tailgate a success! $39.55.

Conversational Spanish

This will be a weekly Spanish class in which the student will learn Spanish in everyday situations. The class begins with the alphabet and basic greetings and will move on to include the following: telling time, asking for directions, and how to order food.  Instructor: Bryan Williamson. 16 hours.  $60.

Core Communication 

Attend the premier applied interpersonal communication skills course-Core Communications. In Core, you will learn six talking skills and five listening skills for resolving conflicts, making decisions, solving problems, and negotiating more effectively. These practical communication skills strengthen your relationships and increase your personal and professional opportunities. Through this program you can expect to develop the confidence that you need to communicate effectively in any situation. Create faster, better resolutions to conflicts, and increase your personal power and influence. Choose specific approaches for handling difficult conversations, and reduce interpersonal tension and stress. 12 hours. $59 (workbook fee of $42 is a separate cost due to instructor the first night of class). 

Gardening DIY

Concerned about food shortages? Have you wondered if you could grow your own food in your backyard? Food independence is something we should all be thinking about and gardening is for everyone no matter their background. Learn how to regain some independence over your food supply. This beginner gardening class will prepare you to grow food anywhere. Topics discussed will be soil, container growing. crop selection, growing vertically, seed starting, gardening for the season, and tips and tricks. You will also be provided with resources and there will be a question and answer time. Sabrina Key is a wife, mom of four, entrepreneur and food independence and gardening coach. In 2020 she decided that it was critically important to learn how to be more self-sufficient and regain some power over her food supply. Gardening quickly became a passion and she started her blog Unexpected Gardener in 2021 and began to teach and empower others to grow their own food. Instructor: S. Key. $29.

Herb Gardening 101

Participants will learn about the differences between warm and cold weather herbs, raised beds and container gardening. They will also receive tips on how to grow from seed, pruning, harvesting, propagation, growing indoors to extend your growing season, and pest control. Participants will go home with a planter box with transplants and some seed starters. Instructor: J. Carlson. $59.

Building Your Own Veggie Garden

Topics will include but not limited to: learning the differences between warm weather/cool weather veggies, growing in ground, in containers, and in raised beds. More topics include companion planting, vertical gardening, starting from seed vs. buying transplants, pruning, attracting bees and pest control. Instructor: J. Carlson.  $19.

Vacation on a Dime

Emily would love to share tips and tricks that she has learned along the way to get around the state, country, continent, and the world on a shoestring budget. Topics include deciding where to travel to stretch your budget, how to find the best lodging for your needs and wallet, and free travel apps/websites that are essential to help stretch your budget. Other topics include allowing for a more “local” experience, travel insurance (when you need it and how to avoid scams), and all-inclusive resorts and cruising. Instructor: Emily Reid. 2 hours. $29.

Zumba

Looking for a fun way to burn those calories? Join the party! Zumba is a fusion of dance and fitness with a playlist jam-packed with exhilarating international music. It is beginner friendly and can be modified no matter what your fitness level is. Instructor: Sarah Manley. 5 hours. $39.55.

Creating a Budget Confidently

Are you curious about budgeting? You want to manage money better, but you feel clueless where to start? Budgeting is the starting point! Join us for a fun and easy to understand workshop and leave able to confidently create a budget that will get you back on track with money. Instructor: Heather Davis. 2 hours. $29.

Meal Planning to Save Time and Money

Are you tired of spending too much on food, multiple trips to the grocery store, and still no answer to “what’s for dinner”? When you learn this simple method for meal planning on a budget, you’ll save time and money and wish you’d known about it all along.Instructor: Heather Davis.
2 hours. $29.

NC Concealed Carry

Learn the aspects of the North Carolina Concealed Carry Handgun Law as they apply to the rights of citizens to carry a concealed handgun. You will also learn how to apply the fundamentals of safety and basic marksmanship. This course will be taught by an NRA Certified Instructor. If you are a first-time shooter, you will need to take the Basic Pistol class prior to this one. Please bring your Driver’s License/picture ID card to class and wear comfortable clothing. If you plan to “rent” a pistol from the instructor, you will need to bring $40 in cash for the instructor to pay for ammunition. Classroom portion will be held at the Greenville Center. Last half of class will be held at the range and you will receive directions via email. *.22 caliber or single action revolvers are not allowed. All firearms must be clean and functioning. For further questions, contact Lisa Webb at 252-493-7317. Instructor: Robert James. 9 hours.

CCW Legal Update

Do you have your NC Concealed Carry permit and need to update or renew it? Then this is the class for you! You will be updated on NC laws and will be able to re-take the test. *.22 caliber or single action revolvers are not allowed in this course. All firearms must be clean and functioning. 2.5 hours. 

UAS Orientation & Prep (Remote Pilot for Drones)

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that drone operators will have to pass a UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) Part 107 aeronautical knowledge test as one of the requirements for legally flying drones commercially. Discover what commercial drone/UAS operators will need to know in order to pass the FAA Part 107 certification test. Learn pertinent information regarding regulations, airspace, weather, and more. Instructors: Dan Mayo, William Lewis, Mike Nicholson. 24 hours.

 Intro to MS Applications

The most common computer applications that people want to learn are Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Join us to learn tips and tricks in these applications for your class work, presentations, or simple enrichment. Instructor: Sherry Howell. 12 hours. 

 Intro to Videography

Learn the latest industry trends and popular software in the world of videography. This course will touch on the foundations of operating your video  camera as well as editing to convey your story or message. In this course you will also learn the basics on developing your ability to capture great video images and audio. No experience required.  Instructor: Timothy Bullock. 28 hours. 

Microsoft Excel

Would you like to become more comfortable with Microsoft Excel? Then this is the class for you! We will focus on Excel basics, navigating the interface, learning tools, performing calculations, creating simple formulas, and more. Instructor: Sherry Howell. 16 hours. 

Watercolor Basics

Learn the art of watercolor painting! You will be introduced to the basics of working with watercolor paints and applying various techniques to create your own painting. The class is an excellent outlet opportunity. Instructor: Judy Dye. 15 hours. 

Watercolor Painting

This class is for all levels of watercolor interest and knowledge. Basic skills will be introduced if you are new. If you are more intermediate, your focus will be on independent study to help develop your own painting style. We will encourage you to participate in local art events/art organizations. Individual guidance will be given to all students. Instructor: Judy Dye. 15 hours. 

Hand Built Ceramic Planters

Are you interested in learning about slab building, pinch potting, and coil building techniques to create planter pots? We will make planters that can hang on a wall or stand on a table. We will also cover surface texturing and design techniques, such as Mishima, texture inlay, and Sgraffito! Tools are provided, however, you must purchase your own clay from the PCC bookstore. Instructor: Lacey Hargroder. 15 hours. $115.

Mugs and Bowls: Wheel Thrown Pottery

Learn the steps to making successful throwing pottery on the potter’s wheel. We will focus our attention on creating basic cylinders to make mugs and bowls. Tools are provided, however, you must purchase your own clay at the PCC bookstore. Instructor: Lacey Hargroder. 18 hours. $115.

Hand Built Candy Dishes

In this course we will cover the use of hump molds to start the base of a ceramic vessel and decorative footing. We will use the coil building ceramic method to build our dishes. We will design and decorate our custom dishes with surface decorating techniques and painting underglazes and glazes for colorful or detailed finishes! Tools and equipment are provided, however, you must purchase your own clay from the PCC bookstore. Instructor: Lacey Hargroder. 15 hours. $115.

Beginner/Intermediate Pottery Wheel

Learn the steps to making successful throwing pottery on the potter’s wheel. We will focus on surface decoration and glazing. Tools are provided, however, you must purchase your own clay for $20 a bag. Cash or check accepted at class. Instructor: Lacey Hargroder. 18 hours. $115.

Hand Building Pottery

In this course we will cover the use of hump molds to start the base of a ceramic vessel and decorative footing. We will use the coil building ceramic method to build our vases and handles. We will design and decorate our custom vases with surface decorating techniques and painting underglazes as well as glazes for colorful or detailed finishes! Tools and equipment are provided, however, you must purchase your own clay for $20 a bag. Cash or check accepted at class. Instructor: Lacey Hargroder. 18 hours. $115.

Beginning Wire Work Jewelry

Using beads and wire, learn to create your own earrings, bracelets, and necklaces with a few simple techniques. Supplies will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own beads, wire, and jewelry-making pliers. Instructor: Elizabeth Steiner. 6 hours. Cost $39.

Introduction to Collage

Create your own artistic collage with paper, paints, ink and whatever materials you desire. We will cover composition and material basics as well as provide individual feedback. Some supplies will be provided, however, you can bring any art materials that you are interested in using. Instructor: Elizabeth Steiner. 6 hours. Cost $39.

Cardio Fit

Get ready for a fun, interactive cardio workout! Experience a full-body, low-impact aerobic workout that works the upper and lower body. This energizing workout can be modified for every age and is suitable for all levels. Instructor: Journonya Harris. 8 hours. Cost $49.

Shedding Covid-20 and How to Keep it Off!

Have you put on excess weight since the pandemic? Having trouble getting back on track? Learn how to eat better and get back in shape. Discover ways to take the weight off and keep it off. Learn to break bad habits that cause weight gain and develop better habits to melt the pounds away. Instructor: Journonya Harris. 6 hours. Cost $39.

Beadweaving for Beginners

Learn to create a flat “fabric” or three-dimensional shapes with seed beads through a variety of off loom techniques. These techniques can be used to create finished works of jewelry or other craft components. We will also discuss bead types and thread types, as well as bead weaving design basics. Instructor: Elizabeth Steiner. 6 hours. Cost $39.

Simple Sawn Pendant

Learn the basics of sawing and piercing sheet metal to create a unique pendant of your own design. This is a great introduction to jewelry and metal smithing. Tools and materials provided. Instructor: Elizabeth Steiner. 6 hours. Cost $39.

Belly Dance Fusion Fitness

Join us for a modern take on classical belly dance. We will combine traditional moves with current pop, R&B, and hip-hop hits. There are many health benefits for those who practice this form of dance, including posture and muscle toning, weight loss, stress reduction, brighter and clearer skin, better sleep, decreased back pain, and increased self esteem and confidence! Instructor: Mikkaka Overstreet. 6 hours. $39

Strut: Social Line Dance

Social line dancing at its finest! If you love dancing socially and you want instruction that is high energy, this class is for you! 6 hours. $60

Cadence: Majorette

Cadence is a Majorette styled dance class that will take you through stand and field choreography. All sequences are taught to HBCU styled Marching Band Music, and class follows a warm-up, stand, field show format. If you’re looking for a fun way to work out and build your confidence, this class is for you! 6 hours. $60

Broadway Jazz

Love dancing? Love singing? This class teaches choreography to your favorite Off-Broadway Musicals.  6 hours. $60

Learn to Shag

Come and learn the “Dance of the Carolinas.” You will learn the basic steps of shag dancing. It is recommended that you wear hard sole shoes or you are welcome to dance in your socks. A dancing partner is suggested, but not required. Instructors: Rick and Suzanne Burchfiel. 4 hours. 

Beyond Basic – Shag

This course is a continuation of Learn to Shag. You will continue the basic steps as well as adding on more! It is recommended that you wear hard sole shoes or you are welcome to dance in your socks. A dancing partner is suggested, but not required. Instructors: Rick and Suzanne Burchfiel. 4 hours. 

Shag Dance

Come and learn our state dance, “The Shag.” You will learn the basic steps and turns along with technique of the dance. We will also review dance etiquette. A dance partner is suggested but not required. Instructors: Joe & Lyn Honeycutt, Pro Dancers and Competitors. 4 hours. 

Intermediate Shag Dance

For the intermediate shag class, you must have mastered the basics and turns. We will begin by learning the pivot as well as set up and prep steps along with male and female patterns. We will continue to stress technique and review dance etiquette. It is recommended you have a partner, but not a requirement. Instructors: Joe & Lyn Honeycutt, Pro Dancers and Competitors. 4 hours. 

Yoga Trapeze

The Yoga Trapeze is a suspension yoga system used to relieve back pain, reduce stress, and improve your grip and core strength. Interested in improving your flexibility and developing your core and upper body strength? This class is for you! 6 hours. 

Spanish I

Jumpstart your Spanish conversations with this beginning Spanish course! We will help you become familiar with the Spanish language by learning the alphabet, numbers, months, and days of the week. You will also learn greetings, how to describe locations, and verbs. Instructor: Bryan Williamson. 12 hours. 

Intermediate Spanish

This class will encourage you to utilize the language by practicing describing your everyday life, the weather, greetings, and using all that you have learned to hold a simple conversation. Instructor: Bryan Williamson. 12 hours. 

American Sign Language

You will be introduced to the fundamental elements of American Sign Language within a cultural context to develop basic expressive and receptive skills. Upon completion, you will be able to comprehend and respond with grammatical accuracy in American Sign Language and demonstrate cultural awareness. Textbook required: American Sign Language Phrasebook & DVD by Lou Fant and Barbara Bernstein Fant). Instructor: Nicole Franklin. 8 hours. 

Ukulele for Adult Beginners

The ukulele is a fun and easy to learn instrument! Even if you have never played an instrument before, you will be playing the ukulele after the very first class! Explore basic chords, simple strums, and fun songs together as a group class. You will need to bring your own ukulele. 5 hours. 

Fun with Accordion

Calling all who are interested in learning to play the accordion – all level players are welcome! The main class objective for beginners is to learn to play at least one song by the end of the five weeks (although we typically work on several songs over a 5 week period). The class will break down the components to the songs and explore practice techniques to overcome your own individual challenges and to advance your playing. For intermediate to advanced students, you will be challenged to overcome “roadblocks” that may have been holding you back. For everyone – a great time to socialize and make music with the accordion! 5 hours. 

Creating Your Life Story in Song: Give a Gift to Your Family

Capture your journey in life through song; a wonderful gift for your family. Use songs already written, or create lyrics of your own.  Songs can be new, or can be favorites from long ago. Leave a lasting legacy for your loved ones with your treasure of music. 3 hours. 

Family Stories Workshop

Every family has stories to tell, but many are lost before they’re recorded. In this workshop, students will receive guidance in how to write and structure these stories and their own. Through a balance of lecture, stimulating memory exercises, discussion, and class feedback they will be able to create a permanent record of these stories for posterity. Instructor: Patsy O’Leary. 30 hours. 

Stage Fright: Performance Anxiety

Learn to overcome anxiety (a little nervousness or outright terror) when performing before an audience or in an audition. Gain an understanding of your  own personality dynamics and how they are related to performance; explore relaxation techniques useful before and during performances or public appearances, and explore how to improve your overall performance health. This class is for musicians, actors, dancers, public speakers and any others who want to improve your public performance skills. 1.5 hours. 

Preparing for Auditions

Are you preparing for an audition? Whether you are auditioning for a local group, college or university, or America’s Got Talent, you can experience a successful audition! Let us help you prepare and help you attain minimal stress and anxiety. Our faculty have years of experience with successful audition coaching. Allow yourself to play with ease while performing in an audition. 1.5 hours. 

Creative Writing Seminar

Whether you are an inexperienced or experienced writer, this course is for you! The emphasis is on creativity, writing, and critique. Assignments are read anonymously and critiqued by class members and the instructor to work toward improved writing technique and communication skills. Tip sheets on the elements of writing are supplemented by exercises. All genres of writing are welcome. Revision and submission for publication and competition are encouraged. Instructor: Patsy O’Leary. 30 hours. 

Classical Music: A Primer

Come learn about music for upcoming PCC Symphony Orchestra concerts. Explore the traditions of Western art music via the structure, style and composers of music before attending the concerts! Course content will include listening, lecture, discussion, an introduction to score reading and conducting, and a hands-on introduction to orchestral instruments. No previous musical experience required. 2 hours. 

Improving Your Church Choir

Explore techniques for improving choral blend, intonation, diction and repertoire. Learn how to balance the musical and non-musical duties for church musicians, such as recruitment & retention, library, and the church year. Whether you are a volunteer or professional, director or accompanist … this course is for you! 3 hours. 

New Horizons Band

Did you play in band during high school? Have you always wanted to learn to play a flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, or another instrument? It’s never too late to learn! New Horizons Band is for adult musicians, novice and experienced. We will help you learn from the beginning or help you “relearn.” No auditions are required but you will need your own instrument. Playing an instrument is great for maintaining finger movement, helping to keep arthritic hand limber and maintaining and improving respiratory functioning. In addition, social fun is good for everyone! New Horizons Band plays for a variety of locations and activities in the community, such as senior living centers, senior social clubs, concerts, celebrations, and community events. 40.5 hours.

New Horizons Band – Beginner

Did you play in band during high school? Have you always wanted to learn to play a flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, or another instrument? It’s never too late to learn! New Horizons Band is for adult musicians, novice and experienced. We will help you learn from the beginning or help you “relearn.” No auditions are required but you will need your own instrument. Playing an instrument is great for maintaining finger movement, helping to keep arthritic hand limber and maintaining and improving respiratory functioning. In addition, social fun is good for everyone! New Horizons Band plays for a variety of locations and activities in the community, such as senior living centers, senior social clubs, concerts, celebrations, and community events. 27 hours.

PCC Symphony Orchestra

Do you play an orchestral instrument? Join us for an opportunity to gain experience by playing in an ensemble. Emphasis is placed on orchestral techniques and the study and performance of a variety of styles and periods of orchestral and string ensemble literature. Upon completion, you should be able to demonstrate skills needed to participate in ensemble playing leadership to performance. Prerequisite: Completion of high school orchestra or band program, or comparable private lesson experience. All other cases to be determined by audition. Instructor: Michael Stephenson. 34 hours. Cost: FREE

Reading Music I

You will be introduced to the basics of reading musical notation. Let us help you make sense of printed music! Topics will include note names, key signatures, intervals, scales, and a brief introduction to rudiments of music theory. The content and pacing of this course will be tailored to your specific interests and abilities. (minimum enrollment required) 5 hours. 

Art of Self-Promotion

Explore ways to promote your music and skills through Social Media, building a Website, Music Blogs, collaborating with other musicians and other promotional materials and skills. Working with professionals from the Music Academy of Eastern Carolina, you will have the opportunity to draft and create your materials. You will need to bring your own laptop. Be sure to bring your creativity and excitement for this experience! 5 hours. 

Finale Software Arrangement

Learn how to notate music in Finale, the industry recognized music notation software, and create professional lead sheets, tablature, or orchestral scores. Help is available for you to understand this program, from beginner basics to advanced techniques. 3 hours. 

Piano for Adult Beginners

The Music Academy of Eastern Carolina believes that every life needs music and anyone can learn to play the piano. A desire to learn is the only prerequisite. Classes are not about the final products but about the joy found in the process along the way. You will learn basic hand positions, simple melodies, note names, and beginning music reading. You will encourage and support one another as you make music together. (Enrollment of 4 required.) 5 hours. 

The Celebration Singers

Love to sing? Celebration Singers is a fun and social group for adults! We sing for a variety of locations and activities in the community such as senior living centers, senior social clubs, concerts, celebrations, and community events. Come enjoy music from Gospel to Broadway show tunes, and just about everything in between! Group singing offers benefits such as deep and controlled breathing, focus on maintaining good use of your lungs, diaphragm, and abdominal muscles, and engaging in continued learning for your brain. Add music to your health! Attend as often as you can – we understand life is full of appointments and travel! You do not have to be an expert musician. If music reading seems like a foreign language, it’s ok. We will gladly help and teach the music for all levels. There are no auditions; come and enjoy the fun! 14 hours. 

Guitar for Adult Beginners

Singing is fun when you can accompany yourself on the guitar! Learn the basics of playing guitar: chords, strumming, single string playing, finger-picking, tuning, fundamentals of music and technique. Lots of “hands-on” experience in a variety of styles. Folk song literature will be explored, which is ideal for teachers of early childhood through elementary school children and adults who wish to accompany their families. Acoustic guitar is required. Materials not included. 5 hours. 

Songwriting

Have you ever dreamed of becoming a songwriter, but were unsure where to begin? Join us as we unlock the mysteries of songwriting. Learn how to turn musical and lyrical ideas into finished songs. Explore a variety of techniques for writing lyrics and melodies, and discover how to develop interesting harmonic accompaniments. And, investigate the business of songwriting; demo recording, music publishing, record release and protecting your songs. Limited to 6 participants. 5 hours. 

Recording Production

Recording Production is a class that will teach students how to do recording in their homes by the use of a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) on their computer. Instruction will be provided on the use of microphones, interfaces, DAWs, midis, and many other recording devices. A final project will involve producing your own recording and uploading it to a social media platform. 20 hours. 

Coping with Loss and Grief

Learn positive skills for dealing with loss and grief by understanding the effects and impacts of loss and grief. You will gain an understanding of your personal emotional needs and identify healthy means of support and healing while participating in creative and meaningful music therapy groups. Allow the power of music and other creative arts to help you heal. Whether you are grieving, or dealing with the loss. Allow music and creative expression help you find a path of healing and growth. 2 hours.

Decrease My Stress: Relaxation through Music

Want to lower your stress or anxiety?  Use the power of your mind and learn how, through music therapy, to attain a sense of relaxation.  Music therapy has always been a great healer.  Music is a significant mood-changer and reliever of tension. Involvement in music has shown to decrease heart rates and to promote higher body temperature – a sign of the body relaxing! Relaxation can lower metabolism and help treat chronic pain and insomnia. Through learning techniques for deep relaxation, you can focus on relaxing the mind and the body at the same time. Come and let our music therapists help you facilitate the experience of rhythm and music, bringing you a calming effect. Learn techniques and skills you can practice at home on your own. Combining music therapy with relaxation therapy is more efficient than doing relaxation alone. Let us help you make the process of relaxation easier for yourself. This is caring for yourself time! 1 hour.

Plant Based Cooking

Discover how to cultivate fun and delicious plant-based meals. Learn how to balance your meal plans for your families by understanding which proteins, grains, and legumes to utilize when creating meals. Understand how to flex your plant-based journey while you are transitioning to a healthier lifestyle. Cooking classes are taught by Chef Metisia. You will be emailed a list of the grocery items needed prior to class and any prep that can be completed beforehand. Instructor: Metisia Wooten. 4.5 hours. $49.

 Investing Fundamentals

Looking to invest and aren’t sure where to start? This course would define and answer: what is a stock, a bond, a mutual fund, a dividend, how to read ticker symbols, and what is a rate of return. Instructor: Shawn Wilson-Edward Jones. 2 hours. $10.