Ann Arbor Public Schools
Community Education and Recreation

Adult. Discover the transformative power of Tai Chi! With a blend of fluid movements, meditation, and breathwork, unlock the ability to harness and cultivate your inner energy. Unleash your potential as you improve your balance, coordination, and confidence through regular practice. These enlightening sessions are designed to provide an inclusive and welcoming environment for beginners. Over the course of 4 weeks, embark on a rewarding journey, laying the foundation for a profound connection between mind, body, and soul. Want to commit more or less time based on your varying schedule? With attendance flexibility, you can decide for yourself which class day/time works best each week - attend either Monday mornings or Thursday evenings, or both! If you attend both, you are essentially getting two classes for the price of one. So whether you seek a serene start to your week or a tranquil mid-week escape, our classes provide the perfect sanctuary for you to rejuvenate your spirit and enhance your holistic well-being. Join our Tai Chi community today and embark on a path of self-discovery, strength, and harmony. After finding success in this 4-week introductory class, you will be given the chance to elevate your practice even further by joining us for an additional 8 weeks. We will email you details about the 8-week extension class soon after the 4-week class begins. The studio is located one flight downstairs and there is no elevator available. Instructor: Monday classes will be taught by Master Wasentha Young and Thursday classes will be taught by Nigel Kerr. Up to 8 classes.

Adults. Take a journey of self-discovery and self-realization through tabla drumming. A tabla, which is a pair of twin hand drums that resemble bongos, has been the principal percussion instrument in Hindustani music since the 18th century, and can be played solo, with other instruments, or as part of a larger ensemble. Though tabla drums are played while sitting on the floor, there is a tremendous range of expression possible. During this class, the instructor will cover the following: technique exercises, care for the instrument, Indian rhythm theory, beginning tabla compositions, basics of accompaniment, and much more. Don't miss this fun and unique opportunity to find the beat of your own drums! All experience levels are welcome, and if you don't have your own tabla, you can borrow from the instructor. You will learn the standard theme and variation compositions, accompaniment, and playing tabla in various styles of music. Instructor: John Churchville, a Grammy award-winning tabla player with over 20 years of experience. 10 classes. No class 10/14. “John Churchville is an excellent teacher overall. But as a tabla instructor, especially, he is top notch. John is extremely dedicated to the art of tabla playing. He takes pride in his skills and always goes an extra mile to explain both the art and the science behind tabla music. Ann Arbor schools and the community are very blessed to have a music teacher of John's caliber amongst us.”

Adult. Discover the satisfaction that comes from shaping beautiful objects out of wood using just 3 versatile hand tools: the chisel, plane and saw. Learn the craft of woodworking and practice essential techniques that have been handed down through the centuries. The first half covers selection, construction, maintenance and use of all three tools. The second half covers dovetail joinery, which creates a strong, snug fit without nails, glue or screws. Leave this class knowing how to achieve better results with your woodworking projects. Option to work on a simple box or picture frame. No prior woodworking experience necessary. All materials and tools are provided. Instructor: Laura . 8 classes. No class 10/14.