George Mason University’s Mason Community Arts Academy (MCAA) is known for its dedication to fostering artistic talent and providing unique opportunities for musicians and educators. This summer, MCAA proudly hosts Evgenii (Eugene) Mikheev, an accomplished clarinetist and Edmund S. Muskie Professional Fellow, as he explored his teaching style and furthered his skills as an educator and administrator.
Eugene's journey in music began at a young age in Saratov, Russia. "I have been playing clarinet for as long as I remember myself," he recalled. Inspired by his musician mother and guided by an excellent teacher, Eugene's passion for the clarinet flourished. After graduating with honors from Saratov State Conservatory, he gained significant experience in professional band performance and woodwind instruction. He eventually became the second clarinetist in the Saratov Symphony Orchestra.
Eugene's desire for growth and development led him to pursue advanced studies at Indiana University, supported by a Fulbright grant. "My main reason to get back to academia was my feeling that I could achieve more if I left my home city and put myself in a competitive, growth-promoting environment," Eugene explained. His dedication paid off, as he graduated from the Jacobs School of Music with a GPA of 4.0 and impressive recital performances.
The next step in Eugene's career brought him to George Mason’s own MCAA, where he was eager to further hone his skills in pedagogy, stage and orchestra management, grant writing, and fundraising. "MCAA was at the top of my Google search as an organization focusing on music education for youth," Eugene shared. The welcoming and professional environment he encountered during his interview confirmed that MCAA was the right choice for him.
Mason Community Arts Academy is a vibrant and inclusive institution dedicated to providing high-quality arts education to students of all ages and skill levels. Located within George Mason University, MCAA offers a diverse array of programs in music, theater, visual arts, and more. With over 90 programs available, the academy ensures that there is something for everyone, from beginners to advanced students. The academy's mission is to enrich the community by fostering a love for the arts and providing opportunities for personal and professional growth through creative expression.
Eugene's role at MCAA this summer involves significant administrative responsibilities, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the behind-the-scenes work necessary for running successful music programs. "I am one of the cogs that help the programs run smoothly," he said, describing his tasks of setting up spaces for classes, rehearsals, and performances. This hands-on experience is invaluable for Eugene as he plans to combine teaching and administrative duties in his future career.
One of the highlights of Eugene's time at MCAA has been the Mason Summer Band Camp. "We had 120 students and a plethora of activities running from 9 am to 9 pm," he recounts. As a lead administrator assisting with clarinet masterclasses, Eugene was impressed by the fast-paced and exhilarating environment. His ability to connect with the students and make a positive impact was evident when junior high clarinetists expressed concern when he had to miss one of the masterclasses.
Reflecting on what sets MCAA apart, Eugene notes the professionalism and variety of programs offered. From band and string camps to piano academy and music production courses, MCAA caters to a wide range of musical interests and skill levels. "Whichever you choose, you cannot go wrong," he asserts, emphasizing the academy's commitment to providing relevant and diverse music education opportunities.
Eugene's future aspirations include balancing teaching and performing while aiming for a college professor position. The skills and experiences he gained at MCAA are instrumental in achieving these goals. "The experience at MCAA gave me a perspective on administrative work in music education for children, and I think the skill set I am developing here will be useful," he said.
Eugene Mikheev's journey from Saratov to George Mason underscores the global reach and impact of MCAA. His story is a testament to the academy's unique offerings and the supportive, inclusive environment it fosters. As Eugene continues to thrive as a musician and educator, MCAA remains a beacon of excellence in the arts, attracting talent from around the globe and nurturing the next generation of artists and educators.