To offer a wide range of engaging, affordable, high-quality classes to curious adults, in a welcoming community that sparks creativity, exploration, and growth.
Who We Are
Established in 1870, Cambridge Center for Adult Education is a non-profit organization located in the heart of Harvard Square. We provide exceptional hands-on multidisciplinary educational classes, from art and cooking, to theater and life & wellness, to languages and literature. We welcome students from all walks of life to join us to expand your worldview, develop your professional skill set, take up a new hobby, or simply to have fun and make new friends in a community of life-long learners.
Diverse Classes
Fun and Supportive Atmosphere
Welcoming Community
Knowledgeable Instructors
Central Location
We are committed to inclusion. At CCAE, we strive to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and valued. We celebrate diversity and value the unique perspectives that each person brings. Our commitment to inclusion is at the heart of who we are and how we work.
About the Cover: You're invited to CCAE's annual spring party, Local, Of Course! This year our chef-crafted bites will feature homegrown flavors from local farms. See page 50 or visit ccae.org/localofcourse to join the fun!
Catalog Directory
www.ccae.org
Phone: 617-547-6789
Location: 42 & 56 Brattle Street, Harvard Square
SUMMER REGISTRATION OPENS
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
SUMMER TERM STARTS
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
OFFICE HOURS
Monday–Thursday: 9am–8pm
Friday: 9am–7pm
Saturday–Sunday*: 9am–4pm
*Closed on Sundays if no classes are running.
Office hours are subject to change. See ccae.org for more details.
2026
July 3, 2026
5, 2026
Food & Wine
“I would strongly recommend this class for other people interested in mixology! It was a lot of fun!”
—AARON H., COCKTAILS & CONNECTIONS: SHAKE, STIR, & SIP LIKE A PRO
COOKING
BASIC KNIFE SKILLS
Malcolm Jackson | Recipe Developer, Culinary Instructor
Honing your knife skills is the most important way to finesse your artistry in the kitchen. Through a combination of demonstration and class practice, you will learn how to chop, dice, and slice like a pro. The instructor will demonstrate cutting techniques for a variety of different vegetables and students will practice with guidance from the instructor. You’ll also learn about sharpening your knife, the many different types of knives and their applications, as well as general knife care. At the end of the night we’ll make a meal which showcases all the cuts including seasonal vegetables, entrée, and dessert.
COURSE CODE: KNIF
Sec. 01: Monday, 6-9pm. Jun. 29 | $115
Sec. 02: Monday, 6-9pm. Aug. 24 | $115
BASIC CULINARY SKILLS & TECHNIQUES
Dagmar Smith | Chef, Graduate: Cambridge School of Culinary Arts
This class is for students who want to develop classic cooking skills that will help them understand recipes as well as how to confidently improvise in the kitchen. The class covers essential knife skills, cuts of meat, where to shop, and kitchen equipment. The first two nights will emphasize knife skills. Each night of this hands-on cooking class, students will make a complete meal from appetizer to dessert. Recipes will include a diverse range of cuisines with increasing complexity to give students confidence and comfortability in the kitchen.
COURSE CODE: BCST
Sec. 01: 6 Tuesdays, 6-9pm. Begins Jun. 30 | $495
THE COST OF TUITION COVERS ALL FOOD AND BEVERAGES FEES FOR IN-PERSON CLASSES.
GRILLING BASICS
Malcolm Jackson | Recipe Developer, Culinary Instructor
Whether you’re looking to hone your skills for backyard gatherings, tailgate parties, or gourmet dinners under the stars, this class will ignite your passion for outdoor cooking and leave you with the confidence to tackle the grill. Covering a variety of protein and vegetables, students will learn a diverse array of grilling techniques and recipes. Come join us and embark on a journey of flavor, fun, and fantastic food!
COURSE CODE: GRBS
Sec. 01: Monday, 6-9pm. Jul. 27 | $115
NEW ENGLAND SEAFOOD FAVORITES
John Peredina | Culinary Instructor, Owner of ChefCraft LLC
Celebrate the flavors of the Northeast in this hands-on cooking class dedicated to classic New England seafood. Working together, students will prepare a menu that highlights the region’s rich coastal traditions while building practical skills for cooking seafood at home. Dishes will include baked haddock, lobster rolls, and mussels in white wine and garlic, followed by a classic Maine blueberry cobbler for dessert. Along the way, the instructor will share tips for selecting fresh seafood, proper handling techniques, and simple methods to bring out the best in each ingredient.
COURSE CODE: NESF
Sec. 01: Thursday, 6-9pm. Jul. 23 | $125
INTRODUCTION TO COFFEE TASTING
Tyler Wood | George Howell Coffee
In this class, expert staff from George Howell Coffee will guide students through the “cupping” process, the industry-standard method for tasting and evaluating coffee quality. Together, we’ll explore the world of coffee origins by cupping selections from the key growing regions from which we source: Central America, South America, and Africa. We’ll delve into the concept of terroir and how each region is unique in its flavor and ecology.
COURSE CODE: ITCT
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-12pm. Jun. 27 | $80
MOROCCAN CUISINE
Ploy Khunisorn | Ploy’s Kitchen, ployskitchen.com
Discover the exotic and enticing cuisine of Morocco in this hands-on class. You will learn how to make Moroccan chicken tagine, couscous, Moroccan bread, and salad. We’ll finish the class with Moroccan mint tea. While cooking, we will talk about spices used in Moroccan cuisine, including Ras el Hanout.
COURSE CODE: MRCC
Sec. 01: Sunday, 11am-2pm. Jul. 12 | $115
SOUTH AFRICAN FAVORITES
Michael McComas | Clarion graduate, Founder of The Mechanics Writ
The food of South Africa reflects the unique location and mix of people, at the confluence of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, where African, English, Dutch, and Cape Malay cuisines blend. In this class, we will make denningvleis, a savory stew; gold rice, an Indian-influenced side dish; chakalaka, a carrot curry from Lesotho; and malva pudding, a signature sauced cake from South Africa.
COURSE CODE: SAFV
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-9pm. Aug. 26 | $115
TASTE OF THE AFRICAN KITCHEN: A CULINARY JOURNEY TO ETHIOPIA
Gaitskell Cleghorn Jr. | Culinary Instructor, Owner Delectable EATS
Explore the vibrant flavors of Ethiopia in this immersive cooking class. Learn about the bold spices and traditional techniques required to prepare dishes such as berbere chicken curry and homemade Ethiopian bread among others. Learn how culture and cuisine intertwine while building confident cooking skills. No prior experience required — just curiosity and an appetite.
COURSE CODE: TOAF
Sec. 01: Thursday, 6-9pm. Aug. 27 | $115
A MIDDLE EASTERN BRUNCH FEAST
Lala Thaddeus | Cooking Instructor & Food Writer
Arab cuisine is known for its colorful dinnertime meze spreads, but this region dishes out hearty breakfasts and brunches, too. Learn to make nationally beloved dishes like hummus, ful medemas (fava bean spread), and cilbir eggs in this traditional-meets-contemporary interactive cooking class. While waiting for everything to come together, we’ll have pita, za’atar, and cardamom tea to snack on. This class is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
COURSE CODE: MEBR
Sec. 01: Saturday, 11am-2pm. Jul. 18 | $110
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN FEMINIST THOUGHT OF THE MIDDLE EAST ON PAGE 27
CULTURE CLUB: EXPLORING FRESH CHEESE, BUTTER, AND ANCIENT POTTERY
Lala Thaddeus | Cooking Instructor & Food Writer
In this interactive class, we’ll learn how to make ricotta, a fresh white cheese, and butter from scratch. We will also explore the role that stoneware vessels played in the process of dairy production across the world, from the Armenian khnotsi to ancient clay sieve and bowl fragments found in Europe. We’ll witness the magical transformation of milk and cream into one of our favorite treats, and we’ll discuss how so much of our culture relies on these ... well, cultured foods! At the end of class, we’ll pair our fresh ricotta and butter with hearty bread and seasonal fruits and jams for a taste test. This class is intended for all levels, no prior experience or pottery knowledge necessary. Just come ready to nerd out about food history!
COURSE CODE: CULT
Sec. 01: Saturday, 11am-2pm. Jun. 20 | $115
MAKING MOZZARELLA
John Peredina | Culinary Instructor, Owner of ChefCraft LLC
Mozzarella, the iconic fresh cheese of Italy’s Naples region, is beloved for its delicate flavor and signature stretchy texture. While it may seem complex, this pasta filata cheese is surprisingly approachable to make at home. In this hands-on class, you’ll experience the full mozzarella-making process—from milk to finished cheese—with helpful tips to ensure you can recreate it in your own kitchen. Along the way, we’ll explore simple and delicious ways to enjoy fresh mozzarella all year long.
COURSE CODE: MOZZ
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-8pm. Jun. 17 | $90
Sec. 02: Tuesday, 6-8pm. Sep. 1 | $90
PERFECTING PIZZA: FROM DOUGH TO DELICIOUS
John Peredina | Culinary Instructor, Owner of ChefCraft LLC
Master the art of crafting delicious pizzas from scratch! In just three hours, you’ll learn to mix and knead dough, make a classic tomato sauce, prepare fresh toppings, and bake the perfect pie. This class is hands-on, fun, and full of flavor. Let’s get our aprons on, ovens hot, and get cooking!
COURSE CODE: PPDD
Sec. 01: Thursday, 6-9pm. Jul. 16 | $100
SUMMER DINNER IN ITALY
John Peredina | Culinary Instructor, Owner of ChefCraft LLC
The Italians are experts when it comes to light, refreshing summer meals. Join Chef John to make the perfect menu you can recreate to share on the patio with friends and family. Together we will make Bruschetta with heirloom tomatoes and basil, panzanella, spaghetti al limone, and limoncello tiramisu.
COURSE CODE: ITSU
Sec. 01: Friday, 6-9pm. Aug. 28 | $115
TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN
Gaitskell Cleghorn Jr. | Culinary Instructor, Owner Delectable EATS
Explore the Caribbean through its bold, comforting cuisine. The instructor guides you across islands and coasts as you cook staples such as Dominican and Puerto Rican mofongo and Aruba’s pan bati among other recipes, all while learning the cultural stories behind each dish. Come ready to cook, taste, and discover. Suitable for all skill levels.
COURSE CODE: TOTC
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-9pm. Jul. 1 | $115
COUPLES COOKING: VALENCIA PAELLA
Luis de Haro | Spanish Cuisine Expert, Chef
Join Chef Luis and learn how to make the world’s most renowned rice dish, paella mixta. Luis’ authentic version contains shrimp, mussels, chicken, saffron, pimentos, peas, tomatoes, scallops or squid (depending on the season), and more. Because it takes time to make an authentic paella, we will start our night off with some simple tapas, a classic green salad, and real Spanish sangria while the paella is cooking. You’ll learn about what distinguishes mediocre paella from exceptional paella, including how to source the best type of rice from Spain and premium quality saffron from La Mancha. We will end our night on a sweet note with Chef Luis’ famous flan. Tuition is per pair.
COURSE CODE: CPAL
Sec. 01: Friday, 6-9pm. Jul. 10 | $210
ARGENTINE EMPANADAS: BAKED TO PERFECTION
Adrienne and Nahuel Palomeque | Valientes Bakery
Join a local Cambridge couple (one an Argentine chef who cooked for the U.S. Embassy) for a hands-on evening of making baked empanadas. Learn to prepare dough, fill, and fold empanadas. Students will make both beef and fugazzeta (vegetarian) fillings. While you’re cooking, hear about Argentina’s rich food and cultural traditions and enjoy a glass of Argentine red wine. All levels welcome; please bring a container to transport your empanadas.
COURSE CODE: AEBP
Sec. 01: Friday, 6-9pm. Jul. 17 | $115
SUMMER DINNER IN SPAIN
Luis de Haro | Spanish Cuisine Expert, Chef
Summer in Spain is synonymous with breezy terrace bars, ice-cold summer beverages, and splendid summer dishes best eaten outside. In this class, we will make a classic Spanish summer menu including Catalan tomato-garlic bread, ajo blanco de malaga (white almond gazpacho), ensaladilla (Spanish potato salad like no other), Serrano ham-wrapped shrimp, sweet piquillo pepper toasts (parsley/garlic), and pipirrana de Jaen (unique marinated fresh vegetable salad). Our classic summer Spanish drinks will be tintos de verano (sparkling red wine spritzers) and Spanish limonada (white wine sangria). We will end our summer dinner with a homemade prepared ice cream with extra virgin olive oil tortes from Seville.
COURSE CODE: SUMS
Sec. 01: Friday, 6-9pm. Jul. 24 | $115
CELEBRITY CHEF MASTER CLASS SERIES
Started in 2018, CCAE’s Celebrity Chef Masterclasses are a series of classes led by some of the best known area chefs who have taught their special dishes to an intimate group of students, all held in our state-of-the-art teaching kitchen. The series has been a huge success, debuting with Tony Maws and Mike Pagliarini, and continuing with chefs Ana Sortun, Lydia Shire, Carl Dooley, Tyler Kinnett, Tracy Chang, Jody Adams, Jeremy Sewell, Dave Punch, Robert Harris, Fred Csibi-Levin, Tyler and Rachel Sundet, Robert Sisca, Jimmy Dunne, Nick Deutmeyer, Brendan Pelley, the crew from o ya and from Toro, and others.
ESSENCE OF GREEK HOSPITALITY WITH CHEF ALAVEE HASSAN, TRADE, AND WILFREDO GUERRERO, SALONIKI GREEK
The word philoxenia (literally translating to "love of strangers" or "friendship to strangers") acts as the heart of Greek hospitality, and is infused into traditional Mediterranean cooking through honest ingredients and cultural dishes. Through hands-on learning and chef demonstrations, Wilfredo Guerrero, Culinary Director of Saloniki Greek, and Alavee Hassan, Executive Chef at Trade, will guide you in creating a traditional Greek feast. Prepare lemon potatoes and a spinach-and-feta “spanikopita” salad to accompany the star of the meal: a tender and flavorful leg of lamb. Learn how to roast a whole lamb leg, emulsify a rich au jus, and slow-braise meat, for a feast that will transport your quests to the shores of the Aegean Sea.
COURSE CODE: MCTS
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-9pm. Aug. 19 | $125
BARCELONA: DISCOVERING CATALONIAN FOOD
Luis de Haro | Spanish Cuisine Expert, Chef Barcelona, the bustling metropolis nestled in the Spanish region of Catalonia, is known in culinary circles as the capital of the Mediterranean diet. While Barcelona is famed for its award-winning restaurants, Chef Luis will give us an intimate look at the cuisine of a Barcelona household in this class. We’ll begin the night with a Marcona almonds tapa and a glass of Catalonian cava. Next, we’ll prepare pa amb tomaquet (tomato and garlic bread), botifarra amb mongetes (Catalan sausage with white beans), espinacas catalana (spinach with pine nuts and golden raisin) and a Barcelona seafood fideuà . We’ll end the class with the quintessential Catalonian dessert, crema catalana.
COURSE CODE: BCEL
Sec. 01: Friday, 6-9pm. Aug. 21 | $115
A WORLD OF DUMPLINGS
John Peredina | Culinary Instructor, Owner of ChefCraft LLC Journey through global flavors in this diverse dumpling class! Learn to make Chinese jiaozi (pork and cabbage), Italian ravioli (ricotta and spinach), and Japanese gyoza (vegetable). Each represents a unique culinary culture while sharing the joy of dumpling-making.
COURSE CODE: AWDU
Sec. 01: Friday, 6-9pm. Jun. 26 | $110
VEGETARIAN/VEGAN THAI COOKING
Ploy Khunisorn | Ploy’s Kitchen, ployskitchen.com
Thai restaurants have become wildly popular in the United States, and yet cooking Thai street food at home can be a challenge-especially for vegetarians. Join Ploy, a native Thai who will teach you the skills and authentic recipes to recreate your vegetarian Thai dishes at home. You’ll also learn about where to shop locally for the freshest ingredients. In this class, we’ll make Thai spicy salad, coconut lemongrass soup with mushrooms, Pad Thai, and butterfly pea limeade.
COURSE CODE: VTAI
Sec. 01: Sunday, 11am-2pm. Jul. 19 | $115
CHINESE DUMPLINGS
Jade Li | Cooking Instructor and Chef, @yucancook
Join Jade for a traditional Chinese dumpling feast where we’ll pinch, squeeze, and pleat our way to a succulent and satisfying meal. We will make traditional boiled dumplings served with soy dipping sauces and pan-fry others for crispy potstickers. Using pork, Napa cabbage, Chinese chives, & seafood, we’ll make various traditional fillings from scratch. Enjoy a dumpling feast in this introductory class and take home the rest.
COURSE CODE: DMPL
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-1pm. Aug. 1 | $110
HAND-PULLED NOODLES FROM SCRATCH
Jade Li | Cooking Instructor and Chef, @yucancook
Across China, there are many ways to make noodles but the distinct, toothsome chew from fresh noodles cannot be beaten. Hand-pulled noodles, as the name suggests, are made with wheat dough that is rolled and stretched by hand into long strips and then cooked immediately after pulling. Chef Jade will guide you through all of the essential tips and techniques to create these comforting and craveable noodles at home. We’ll load the noodles with flavor by turning them into a savory Chinese beef stew and spicy vegetarian dan dan noodles.
COURSE CODE: NODL
Sec. 01: Saturday, 2-5pm. Aug. 1 | $110
CHINESE STREET FOOD
Jade Li | Cooking Instructor and Chef, @yucancook
Street food is essential to Chinese culture and is becoming increasingly popular around the globe. Food carts dish up delicious, cheap, filling, and authentic expressions of Chinese cuisine. Join us to learn how to prepare street food from Jade’s home town, Zigong Sichuan, and immerse yourself in the spirit of this remarkable cuisine. On the menu: Sichuan-style fries, BBQ meat skewer, and dandan noodles.
COURSE CODE: CHSF
Sec. 01: Sunday, 1-4pm. Aug. 2 | $110
(ALMOST) NO COOKING INDIAN MEAL
Neha Coureil | Indian Cooking Enthusiast
Love the bold flavors of Indian cuisine but find the prep time intimidating? This class is your shortcut to a gourmet, vegetarian feast. We’ll master the art of the “semi-homemade” Indian meal by learning how to transform high-quality store-bought ingredients into a restaurant-style spread with minimal effort. The menu will include aloo tikki chaat, paneer tikka masala, butter / garlic naan, kachumber and spiced ice cream. Whether you’re a busy professional or an effortless entertainer, you’ll leave with the confidence to whip up a fancy Indian dinner any night of the week.
COURSE CODE: NCIM
Sec. 01: Sunday, 11am-2pm. Aug. 9 | $110
CELEBRATE PRIDE MONTH!
PRIDE MONTH MEET & MINGLE CHOCOLATE TASTING
Victoria Kichuk | Professional Chocophile, cocoabeantown.com
Celebrate Pride Month at CCAE with an evening of chocolate tasting and connection! Our popular Meet and Mingle series returns this June with a special edition welcoming LGBTQIA+ students. Studies show that people are able to create bonds more easily when engaging in a shared experience and learning new things. Learn about chocolate, from cacao bean to craft chocolate bar, while savoring the flavors of guided tastings. Guests will be seated and switching tables each tasting round for circulation. Folks who feel a connection will be able to exchange information before the conclusion of the event. Everyone will leave with a deeper appreciation for chocolate, a few new connections, and a sweet treat to take home!
COURSE CODE: PRMI
Sec. 01: Friday, 6-8pm. Jun. 5 | $40
VIETNAMESE STREET FOOD
Ploy Khunisorn | Ploy’s Kitchen, ployskitchen.com
Embrace the light and delicate flavors of Vietnamese cuisine known for fresh herbs, vegetables, and dipping sauce. In this hands-on cooking class, we’ll make Vietnamese fresh rolls with dipping sauce, Banh Trang Nuong (Vietnamese pan-grilled pizza made with rice paper), bun cha (grilled pork meatball served with rice vermicelli, fresh herbs, pickled veggies, and dipping sauce), and mango tapioca dessert.
COURSE CODE: VIET
Sec. 01: Sunday, 11am-2pm. Aug. 30 | $115
KOREAN BBQ AT HOME
Julianna Kim | Korean Cooking Enthusiast
What if you could enjoy delicious Korean barbecue at home — no grill required? With just an oven broiler, you can create restaurant-quality K-BBQ in your own kitchen. In this hands-on class, we’ll prepare classic dishes like galbi, bulgogi, and samgyeopsal, along with a variety of flavorful banchan (side dishes). Along the way, you’ll learn about the history and techniques behind these iconic dishes, plus tips for recreating the experience at home. You’ll leave with the skills and confidence to host your own Korean BBQ night — right in your apartment. Warning: your kitchen will smell incredible!
COURSE CODE: ABBQ
Sec. 01: Thursday, 6-9pm. Aug. 20 | $115
MEET & MINGLE CHOCOLATE TASTING
Victoria Kichuk | Professional Chocophile, cocoabeantown.com
Join us for an evening of chocolate tasting and connection! This isn’t your typical meet-up — research shows that people form bonds more easily when they share a new learning experience. And what better way to connect than through the joy of chocolate? At this event, you’ll discover fascinating facts about craft chocolate while enjoying a series of guided tastings. As you savor each bite, you’ll also rotate tables between rounds, giving you the chance to meet and mingle with new people throughout the session. If a connection sparks, you’ll have the opportunity to exchange contact information before the event wraps up. Everyone will leave with a deeper appreciation for chocolate, a few new connections, and a sweet treat to take home!
COURSE CODE: SIMI
Sec. 01: Friday, 6-8pm. Aug. 14 | $40
SIP WITH PRIDE: EXPLORING LGBTQIA+ WINES & BEERS
Jacob Lavoie | Food & Wine Program Director
This Pride Month, explore a wide range of wines and beers crafted by LGBTQIA+ makers from around the world. Guided by the instructor, students will practice foundational tasting techniques, discuss flavors and aromas, and learn about the people and stories behind each beverage. Celebrate both craftsmanship and community in this hands-on, welcoming class.
COURSE CODE: LGBW
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-8pm. Jun. 10 | $100
HOW TO BE A CHOCOLATE SOMMELIER
Victoria Kichuk | Professional Chocophile, cocoabeantown.com
There are over 400 different aromatic flavor profiles recognized in cacao, the bean we use to make chocolate, which is more than double what is available in wine. Most industrial, mass-produced chocolate, however, is made in a way that mutes these nuances in favor of being a sugar-forward experience. In this course, we will take you through the exercise of tasting chocolate like an expert, and help you to get started on your journey of exploring the subtleties of craft chocolate, with all of the layers of flavor that good chocolate makers are able to coax from those beautiful beans.
COURSE CODE: CSOM
Sec. 01: Thursday, 6-8pm. Aug. 20 | $90
PARISIAN MACARONS
Sophie Frazier | Baking Instructor, Graduate: Culinary Institute of Canada
French macarons are a delicious sweet treat with a reputation of being difficult to make. In this class you will dispel the mystery and learn how to make the popular macaron with a buttercream filling. These delicate and colorful confections can be a sweet ending to a meal or just a snack on their own. You’ll practice step-by-step techniques on how to make the macaron shells including whipping the meringue to the right consistency, perfecting the macaronage, piping, and baking. You will then fill the cooled shells with your preferred filling of chocolate ganache or buttercream.
COURSE CODE: MACA
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-9pm. Jun. 24 | $95
INTRODUCTION TO SOURDOUGH BREAD BAKING
Victor Sheen | Sourdough Enthusiast & Instructor
Discover the magic of turning flour, water, and salt into a crusty, flavorful loaf — no commercial yeast required! In this beginner-friendly class, you’ll learn the fundamentals of sourdough baking: how to care for a starter, mix and knead dough, master fermentation timing, and bake a loaf with that perfect open crumb and golden crust. We’ll cover common pitfalls, tips for success in a home kitchen, and the science that makes sourdough both delicious and digestible. During class, you’ll sample slices of freshly baked sourdough still warm from the oven, so you can taste exactly what you’re working toward. You’ll leave with your own active starter, a step-by-step recipe, and the confidence to start baking at home.
COURSE CODE: SOUR
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-9pm. Jul. 8 | $95
Sec. 02: Saturday, 11am-2pm. Aug. 22 | $95
HIGH-END DESSERTS: CANNABIS CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKES
Anne Wolf | Culinary Educator, Founder Entourage Edibles
Learn to craft irresistibly gooey, ultra-decadent chocolate lava cakes infused with dispensary-available cannabis products. No complicated chemistry, just pure indulgence! Led by instructor Anne Wolf, professional chocolatier and cannabis-infusions chef, this class dives into controlled, customizable dosing without ever stinking up the kitchen. Perfect for curious cooks craving a luxurious, cannabis-enhanced dessert experience. You must be 21+ to take this class. Disclaimer: This class and venue are in compliance with all MA State Laws. No cannabis may be bought or sold with the venue or on the property.
COURSE CODE: HIGH
Sec. 01: Thursday, 6-8:30pm. Jul. 9 | $105
LAMINATED DOUGHS: CROISSANTS
Sophie Frazier | Baking Instructor, Graduate: Culinary Institute of Canada
Croissants are one of the most popular breakfast pastries in the world. Come learn how to achieve perfect flaky, buttery croissants. This flaky delicacy consists of layer upon layer of yeast-leavened bread and butter that is served either plain or filled. In this hands-on class, we will make exquisite sweet and savory croissants. You will learn proper techniques for rolling, shaping, and baking laminated doughs. This class is designed to enhance your understanding of yeasted pastry making and elevate your skills to get creative for other types of croissants.
COURSE CODE: LADO
Sec. 01: Saturday, 11am-2pm. Jul. 11 | $110
Sec. 02: Saturday, 11am-2pm. Aug. 29 | $110
ARAB DESSERTS: KNEFEH AND BAKLAVA
Lala Thaddeus | Cooking Instructor & Food Writer
In this class, we’ll make classic Middle Eastern baklava and Levantine knefeh, sweet treats fit for special occasions. Students will work with philo and katayif dough and learn how to avoid common mistakes while making these intimidating big desserts. We’ll practice adding different fillings and making various shapes of baklava, which students will get to take home. We will eat warm, cheesy knefeh together in class, discuss Arab and Middle Eastern culture, and where to buy the best ingredients to make these festive desserts on your own.
COURSE CODE: ADKB
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-9pm. Jul. 22 | $95
BREADS OF ITALY
John Peredina | Culinary Instructor, Owner of ChefCraft LLC
Discover the art of Italian baking in this hands-on class! You’ll make focaccia genovese, grissini (Italian breadsticks), and a rustic Italian loaf while exploring regional traditions and techniques. Bake, taste, and take home the flavors of Italy!
COURSE CODE: BRED
Sec. 01: Sunday, 11am-2pm. Jul. 26 | $95
ALFAJORES: CRUMBLY ARGENTINE COOKIES
Adrienne and Nahuel Palomeque | Valientes Bakery
Discover the art of alfajores with a local Cambridge couple, including an Argentine chef. In this hands-on class, you’ll create delicate, buttery cookies filled with luscious dulce de leche. The instructors will provide instruction as the class attempts two iterations including both the typical gluten-free version and a decadent chocolate-covered version. Along the way, explore the cultural roots of this beloved Argentine treat and learn techniques you can recreate at home. You’ll try them with aromatic coffee, like in the streets of Buenos Aires, and leave with your own alfajores to share (or keep!). Suitable for all levels; no prior baking experience required.
COURSE CODE: ACAC
Sec. 01: Sunday, 11am-2pm. Aug. 23 | $95
BRIOCHE BREAD BAKING
Sophie Frazier | Baking Instructor, Graduate: Culinary Institute of Canada
Perhaps the best-known French sweet dough, brioche, is as light as it is rich. We will address the careful scaling, vigorous kneading, shaping, and baking of an assortment of pastries including brioche à tête and braided bread. We’ll make the brioche dough from scratch, shape the dough and bake some brioche buns.
COURSE CODE: BRIO
Sec. 01: Tuesday, 6-9pm. Aug. 25 | $95
BAKING AND DECORATING CUPCAKES
Sophie Frazier | Baking Instructor, Graduate: Culinary Institute of Canada
Cupcakes always brighten up special events and holiday parties. We’ll learn the secrets to baking delicious vanilla and chocolate cupcakes. Then, we’ll pipe and decorate your creations using different techniques and designs including flowers. We’ll use a variety of fillings, frostings, and other toppings for unique flavor combinations. No experience necessary. You will take home six decorated cupcakes.
COURSE CODE: HCUP
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-9pm. Sep. 2 | $95
ARMENIAN COOKIES, COFFEE, & CULTURE
Linda Khachadurian | Edible Artist, LKSweetArt.com
Learn how to make Armenian cookies and coffee, while learning about the vibrant and creative culture in Armenia. We will knead and learn the technique to sculpt perfectly symmetrical khurebehs, which are traditional Armenian sugar cookies, plus recreate Linda’s original recipe for mahmours, which are artisan filled cookies that use a similar shaping technique as kuftehs. Linda’s iteration builds upon her great-grandmother’s recipe. These cookies are filled with a buttery date and walnut mixture that’s infused with a touch of brown sugar and Madagascar Bourbon vanilla and topped with homemade rosewater infused marshmallow dip, plus a sprinkle of colorful luster dust to add a bit of dazzle. At the end of the class, we’ll make Armenian coffee to pair with these delicious cookies.
COURSE CODE: AMCK
Sec. 01: Thursday, 6-9pm. Sep. 3 | $95
WINE, BEER & SPIRITS
SUN-SOAKED CROATIAN WINES: INTRODUCTION TO REGIONS AND VARIETIES
Croatia is widely known for its stunning archipelago in the Adriatic Sea, consisting of over 1,000 islands. But did you know that it has been growing vines since the time of the Ancient Greeks and has over 120 indigenous varieties? In this class we will explore four wine regions, learning about their geography, climate, and appellations. We will also taste many different varieties, distinct in aromas and flavors. From Graevina in the North to Malvasia and Teran from Istria, and Pošip and Plavac Mali from Dalmatia, Croatian winemakers continue their ancient practices in producing internationally-acclaimed wines.
COURSE CODE: CROW
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-8pm. Jul. 15 | $100
ROSÉ WINE TASTING
John Fiola | Diploma WSET, Certified Wine Educator
The bright acidity and floral notes of rosé wine are a perfect match for spring! Often associated with one particular style, rosé wines are produced around the world in a wide range of tastes and styles. Rosé wines have been making a comeback in recent years as we are seeing more and more of them on the shelves. Come join us as we demystify the world of rosé wines. We will cover how rosé wines are made, the different grape varietals used, and the different styles of rosés.
COURSE CODE: RSWN
Sec. 01: Friday, 6-8pm. Jul. 31 | $100
WINE TASTING: A BEGINNER’S SAMPLER
John Fiola | Diploma WSET, Certified Wine Educator
Uncertain as to the difference between chardonnay and chenin blanc, Chianti and cabernet, Burgundy and Barossa? Demystify the world of wine tasting and join us to learn how to distinguish between wine styles, grape varieties, and regions. We’ll discuss how to buy wine at all price points, how to taste wine to get the most out of every glass, what makes a New World wine different from the same type of wine produced in France or Italy, and the best food pairings for different wine styles.
COURSE CODE: WSAM
Sec. 01: 2 Fridays, 6-8pm. Aug. 14 & 21 | $180
THE WINE OF NEW ZEALAND: MORE THAN MARLBOROUGH
Lydia Sharrad | WSET Level 3, Wine Manager
New Zealand’s winemaking was established in the 1800s, and today its vineyards span a range of regions, styles, and flavors. Yet for many in the northern hemisphere, the country’s reputation begins and ends with the global success of Marlborough sauvignon blanc. It’s time to look beyond the familiar. Discover a vibrant world of wines-from elegant pinot noirs to complex chardonnays and hidden regional gems — each reflecting the beauty and diversity of this remarkable landscape. And don’t worry, we’ll also taste a delicious Marlborough sauvignon blanc!
COURSE CODE: WINZ
Sec. 01: Friday, 6-8pm. Aug. 28 | $100
SHRUBS: VINEGAR
DRINKS WITH DEPTH & DELIGHT
Urban Pharm | urban-pharm.com
In this hands-on class with Urban Pharm, students will explore shrubs— bright, flavorful drinks made from vinegar, fruit, and sweetness that have been enjoyed for centuries as refreshing tonics. Participants will make a seasonal shrub from scratch while learning how raw apple cider vinegar, fruits, botanicals, and sugar work together to create balance and depth. The instructor will demonstrate how shrubs can elevate everyday drinking, from morning tonics to evening wind-downs. Students will taste Urban Pharm shrubs and use them to build thoughtful non-alcoholic drinks with a focus on flavor, versatility, and intention. This class is open to all; no prior experience with shrubs is required.
COURSE CODE: SHRU
Sec. 01: Monday, 6-9pm. Aug. 31 | $90
COCKTAILS & CONNECTIONS: SHAKE, STIR, & SIP LIKE A PRO
Augusto Lino | General Manager, Noir Bar
Get ready to shake things up! In this lively, hands-on cocktail class, you'll learn the art of crafting classic drinks-mixing, stirring, and shaking your way through timeless recipes with practical techniques you can easily recreate at home. You will experiment with a variety of spirits, gain confidence behind the bar, and discover tips for stocking your home bar - all while meeting new people and sharing a few laughs along the way.
COURSE CODE: MIXO
Sec. 01: Tuesday, 6-8pm. Jun. 23 | $95
BEYOND THE BASICS: NEXT-LEVEL COCKTAIL CRAFT
Augusto Lino | General Manager, Noir Bar
Ready to move beyond the basics? This intermediate class invites you to think like a mixologist, learning to adapt, refine, and create with confidence using what you already know. You’ll learn to balance flavors, navigate spirits with intention, and adapt recipes into something uniquely your own. Through guided experimentation and hands-on practice, you’ll build confidence behind the bar, culminating in a final challenge to design a cocktail inspired by a classic.
COURSE CODE: MIX2
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-8pm. Jul. 1 | $95
FROM CANE TO GLASS: EXPLORING RUM’S MANY STYLES
Elisha Eisen | Graduate, The Culinary Institute of America
Journey through the rich world of rum, from light and spiced to dark and aged varieties. Along the way, we’ll explore production methods, regional differences, and cocktail uses. Whether you’re a curious beginner or seasoned sipper, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this versatile spirit.
COURSE CODE: RUMR
Sec. 01: Saturday, 1-3pm. Jul. 18 | $95
JAPANESE WHISKY TASTING
Greg Bergeron | General Manager, Bubble Bath Back Bay
Discover the rich traditions of distilling from Japan! A deep dive into the history of one of the fastest growing whisky traditions in the world, from pre-war origins to the modern day. A tasting from the most influential producers, accompanied by snacks, will give any discerning drinker the info they need to make informed orders at their favorite bar or restaurant!
COURSE CODE: JBRN
Sec. 01: Sunday, 2-4pm. Jul. 19 | $95
YOU
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World Languages
“I love these Italian film classes, it’s a very good way to continue to learn and understand the language!”
—CARL I., CINEFORUM ITALIANO
CCAE offers in-person and online classes at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels taught by highly-trained and experienced instructors. Communicative, learner-oriented teaching methods and the multicultural atmosphere facilitate not only language learning but also friendships with people from all over the world. We use the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) to assess students and establish learning goals (p. 16). To find the right level, attend our free online personal assessment days (p. 15) or contact Francesca Ferraris at languages@ccae.org. Please see p. 16 for level descriptions and visit ccae.org/classes/world-languages for our most up-to-date language classes. Many language classes require the purchase of a textbook. For online classes, we recommend purchasing the textbook before attending the first class.
AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE
Jude Grauso | Native Speaker
Learn the basics of sign language as a first step to developing receptive and expressive skills. You will learn commonly used signs, the basic grammatical rules of American Sign Language, and information about the Deaf community.
BEGINNER LEVEL 1
COURSE CODE: ASB1
Sec. 01: 7 Wednesdays, 4-5:30pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $235
BEGINNER LEVEL 2
COURSE CODE: ASB2
Sec. 01: 7 Wednesdays, 5:45-7:15pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $235
BEGINNER LEVEL 3
COURSE CODE: ASB3
Sec. 01: 7 Thursdays, 5-6:30pm. Begins Jul. 9 | $235
DEAF CULTURE & HISTORY: ASL PRACTICE
This class will explore the rich historical and cultural background of the Deaf community throughout time. It will investigate how American Sign Language developed and how the culture emerged within it. Part of the class will be dedicated to practicing signing. A basic understanding of ASL and having completed at least American Sign Language Beginner Level 3 or equivalent is required for this class.
COURSE CODE: ASDC
Sec. 01: 7 Thursdays, 6:45-8:15pm. Begins Jul. 9 | $235
LEVANTINE ARABIC
Alaa Aldeen Kayali | Native Speaker
Arabic today exists in multiple overlapping yet distinct varieties. In published writing and formal contexts (e.g., articles, novels, religious texts, presentations of news or information), people use Modern Standard Arabic. At the same time, there are several different regional dialects that people use primarily in conversational and informal contexts (e.g., greetings, family and social life, daily communication, social media posts). Levantine Arabic is the regional variety of Arabic used by speakers from Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria, and is the native language to more than 44 million people. Furthermore, it is considered one of the most widely understood varieties across the Arabic-speaking world because of the large amount of media (songs, TV series, etc.) produced in it. Levantine Arabic shares with other varieties of Arabic many fundamental grammar structures and a large amount of vocabulary.
BEGINNER LEVEL 1
COURSE CODE: LAR1
Sec. 01: 7 Mondays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jul. 13 | $235
BEGINNER CONVERSATION
In this class, students will continue listening, interacting, and creating stories together as a group. In addition to the classroom stories, students will be exposed to authentic contemporary media in Levantine Arabic, including popular songs and videos. Students taking this level should be familiar with reading and writing all Arabic letters and no longer rely on transliteration, and use the most common verbs and words for storytelling in the past and present time frames.
COURSE CODE: LABC
Sec. 01: 7 Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jul. 14 | $235
BRAZILIAN PORTUGUESE
Alexia Penney | Native Speaker Portuguese, the native language of Brazil, is spoken by approximately 180 million people around the world, including one million in Massachusetts! This series of engaging classes emphasizes spoken production and interaction.
BEGINNER LEVEL 1
COURSE CODE: BPB1
Sec. 01: 4 Weeks, Mondays & Wednesdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Aug. 3 | $270
DATING ETIQUETTE IN BRAZILIAN PORTUGUESE
In this fun class, you will learn how to communicate with suitors and romantic partners in Brazilian Portuguese. This class is conversational, so be sure to have completed CCAE’s levels 1 and 2 of Brazilian Portuguese for grammar. You will learn and practice how to communicate with Brazilians you might be interested in, whether in a bar, a friend of a friend, or on dating apps. You will learn how to manage some Portuguese once you are setting up a date and on the actual date (food, conversation topics, typical questions, splitting the bill, rides, gifts, setting up the next date). For those who are already married to, or in a committed relationship with, a Brazilian, you will learn how to charm your romantic partner with typical affectionate Portuguese phrases. Because life is not all roses, we will also learn phrases to help navigate misunderstandings with your love interest. And, if your feelings change, we’ll look at how to gently end a relationship in Portuguese. Get ready to form relationships!
COURSE CODE: BPDE
Sec. 01: 4 Mondays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Aug. 3 | $135
INTERMEDIATE CONVERSATION
Expand your vocabulary and fluency in this relaxed and fun class for students with at least 60 hours of instruction (or equivalent). We will practice expressing ourselves comfortably, discussing current events, and engaging fully in Brazilian Portuguese’s cultural context.
COURSE CODE: BPIC
Sec. 01: 4 Wednesdays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Aug. 5 | $135
CHINESE
Jin Cooper | Native Speaker and Author, Notes on Economics from Harvard
Mandarin Chinese has more native speakers than any other language. As Mandarin’s popularity increases among language learners, give yourself an advantage with an experienced and enthusiastic instructor.
A REVIEW OF YONG HO’S BEGINNER’S CHINESE TEXTBOOK
This three-week course is designed for students to review and integrate the content of all the 10 lessons in this beginner’s textbook, to introduce themselves and their family, and to talk about shopping, dining and travel, all in Chinese. Students are encouraged to review all the vocabulary and sentence structures in the book and compose passages about themselves on these topics during the break before the course starts. The writing exercise at the end of each lesson in this book will be assigned during this course, since this is also a time to transition into writing Chinese characters and to become less reliant on Pinyin. Prerequisite: Students must have completed at least our Beginner Levels 1 through 3 or equivalent 45 hours of in-class instruction.
This short course consists of three visits to the MFA and offers students an opportunity to examine the Chinese art exhibitions during each visit closely. It is designed for people with a general interest in Chinese art, who would like to pick up some Chinese vocabulary for museum visits. Students are encouraged to take notes about what they see and what they like. We will use the last 20-30 minutes to share our thoughts and reflections. Lunch at the MFA is optional. Handouts of relevant Chinese terms will be provided. Prerequisite: Three terms of Beginner's Chinese at CCAE are preferred but not required. Most of the discussions will be in English.
COURSE CODE: MCMU
Sec. 01: 3 Wednesdays, 10:30am-12pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $80 Tuition does not include entrance to the MFA. Meeting point: Inside the main entrance at 465 Huntington Avenue
French is the official language of 29 countries. It has a long history as an international language of literature and scientific standards and is a primary or second language of many international organizations. French has been called one of the three most useful languages for business by Bloomberg Businessweek. Join their ranks in this series of engaging classes, emphasizing spoken production and interaction
This class is designed to thoroughly review the content of Beginner Levels 1 through 3. It is for students who have completed French Beginner Level 3 or equivalent in the past and would like to revisit and practice the basics of French with the goal to regain some fluency and get ready for a potential trip to a French speaking country.
SE DÉBROUILLER EN FRANÇAIS: HOW TO GET BY IN FRENCH AND TRAVEL SUCCESSFULLY TO FRANCE
This class is for students who have completed our French Beginner Levels 1 through 4 (or equivalent) and would like to master everyday situations like asking for directions, placing an order at a restaurant, etc. Along the way, you will learn some grammar, pick up new vocabulary and learn about French culture. Don’t wait to be in France to speak French!
If you are pretty comfortable in everyday situations and in applying your solid knowledge of the basics of French, now it’s time to practice expressing yourself in more complex situations. Practice voicing opinions, and sharing points of views with your classmates, to increase your vocabulary and engage fully in the cultural context of French.
This class will improve the students’ pronunciation and help facilitate the comprehension of spoken language. It will cover the vowels and letters that are mispronounced by English speakers such as “R” and “U,” as well as the nasal vowels and sounds that are combinations of letters and vowels. We will also go over the consonants that are not pronounced at the end of words. Another important topic will be the “liaisons,” those letters at the end of a word that are orally combined with the beginning of the following word. Knowing how to recognize them and when to pronounce them will improve the students’ comprehension of French and their fluency. The class aims to help you develop perfect French pronunciation by having fun practicing. This class is for students who have taken at least 28 hours of French (CEFR A1+ and above).
COURSE CODE: FPRO
Sec. 01: 4 Mondays, 5-6:30pm. Begins Jul. 6 | $135
JE SUIS D’ACCORD: LEARNING FRENCH WITH SONGS
Neha Coureil | French Instructor
Songs are a great way to learn French! Every session we will listen to a couple of songs from different decades and genres. It will be an opportunity to improve your listening skills and work on your grammar. Along the way, you will pick up some new vocabulary and enjoy the cultural exposure. Students from all levels of French are welcome. New songs every term.
COURSE CODE: FRSO
Sec. 01: 3 Wednesdays, 4-5:30pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $100
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GERMAN
Claire Sehringer | German Instructor
The German language boasts about 120 million native speakers. It is the most widely spoken native language in the European Union. The German-speaking countries are ranked fifth in terms of annual publication of new books, with one tenth of all books (including e-books) in the world being published in German language.
BEGINNER LEVEL 1
COURSE CODE: GRB1
Sec. 01: 4 Weeks, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Aug. 4 | $270
GRAMMAR REVIEW
Improve your German by solidifying your understanding of sentence structure, verb tenses and conjugation, cases and prepositions (accusative or dative), as well as subordinate clauses. We will dive into texts and exercises to help you feel more comfortable and confident with your German grammar. A nice-to-have for any high beginner or low intermediate student who wants to enjoy German more.
COURSE CODE: GRGA
Sec. 01: 6 Wednesdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $200
ITALIAN
Giovanni M. Palmarini | Native Speaker
Italian is spoken as native language by approximately 85 million people in Europe, Africa, the Americas, and Australia. Throughout the world it is the fifth most studied foreign language. Taught by experienced and educated instructors, these classes emphasize building vocabulary, solidifying grammar, and improving spoken interaction.
This class is for students who have completed our four beginner levels or the equivalent and are comfortable with using the present tense and have some knowledge of passato prossimo and imperfetto. Reinforce your basic knowledge of the structure of Italian, develop fluency with the past tenses, acquire new vocabulary, learn about culture, and practice with lively activities and conversations.
COURSE CODE: ITBC
Sec. 01: 3 Wednesdays, 4:45-6:15pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $100
CANTIAMO SUMMER EDITION: ITALIAN THROUGH SONGS
Giovanni M. Palmarini | Native Speaker ”Sapore di mare” è una delle tante canzoni che celebrano l’estate italiana. In questo corso migliorerete la grammatica, il vocabolario e le vostre abilità di ascolto, divertendovi. Recommended for low intermediate students and above (CEFR A2+ and above).
COURSE CODE: CAES
Sec. 01: 3 Mondays, 4:15-6:15pm. Begins Jun. 15 | $135
SICILIA TRA CULTURA E STORIA: ADVANCED CONVERSATION
Sabrina Biagini | Native Speaker
La Sicilia è un'isola ricca di storia e cultura, crocevia di popoli e civiltà nel cuore del Mediterraneo. Dai resti dell’antica Grecia alle influenze arabe e normanne, questa terra racconta secoli di incontri e contaminazioni. Tradizioni e arte si fondono, rendendo la Sicilia un luogo affascinante con panorami mozzafiato. This class is recommended for high intermediate and advanced students.
COURSE CODE: ISIC
Sec. 01: 2 Mondays, 5-7pm. Jun. 29 & Jul. 6 | $90
JAPANESE
Tomoko Takagi | Native Speaker
Japanese is spoken by more than 125 million people around the world — primarily by the inhabitants of Japan, but also by populations of Japanese origin in Hawaii, as well as in North and South America. Nearly 4 million people around the world study Japanese. Japanese is an agglutinative language whose origins are not clearly established. The writing system consists of two syllabaries — Hiragana and Katakana — and the Chinese Kanji characters.
INTRODUCTION TO JAPANESE: CONVERSATIONAL JAPANESE FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
The Japanese language has a reputation for being quite difficult to learn, but if you focus on speaking and listening first, you should be able to work your way to communication relatively painlessly. Soon you could be traveling to Japan and striking up a conversation with the locals, or wowing your friends by ordering dinner at an authentic sushi restaurant or izakaya (Japanese style tavern). This short introductory course is for absolute beginners and we are focusing on very basic spoken, conversational Japanese used in practical settings. Let’s get started!
COURSE CODE: JPIN
Sec. 01: 3 Fridays, 2:30-4pm. Begins Jul. 10 | $100
REFRESHER BEGINNER LEVEL 1 & 2
This class is designed to thoroughly review beginner level Japanese 1-2 or equivalent including grammar, vocabulary, katakana, kanji et al. It is for students who have completed Beginner Level 1-2 classes or equivalent, who have learned hiragana, katakana, and have some knowledge of basic conjugations of verbs (masu-form etc.) and adjectives etc.
COURSE CODE: JPRH
Sec. 01: 4 T hursdays, 6 :30-8pm. Begins Jul. 9 | $135
PATHWAY TO BEGINNER CONVERSATION
A short summer bridge course for experienced beginners preparing to join the Beginner Conversation class (approximately Genki I Lesson 11 level). Designed to review and strengthen the grammar, vocabulary, and speaking skills needed for successful participation in conversation-based learning. Students should have completed content equivalent to our Beginner Level 3 or higher.
COURSE CODE: JPAC
Sec. 01: 4 Wednesdays, 6:15-7:45pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $135
JAPANESE-LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY TEST (JLPT N5) –FIRST STEPS
This short introductory course is designed for students interested in beginning their preparation for the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N5. Students will gain an overview of the exam format, question types, and effective study strategies, while reviewing the foundational grammar, vocabulary, kanji, and listening skills covered on the N5 test. Prerequisite: Completion of most of Genki I textbook or equivalent prior knowledge.
COURSE CODE: JLPT
Sec. 01: 3 Fridays, 4:10-5:40pm. Begins Jul. 10 | $100
Need
a Scholarship? CCAE offers a scholarship assistance—50% off tuition. Some restrictions apply.
You can download guidelines and an application form at ccae.org/about/scholarships. If you have any questions please contact our Student Services Coordinator at info@ccae.org.
KOREAN
Hyunyong Jeon | Native Speaker
Korean belongs to the Ural-Altaic family of languages and is spoken by approximately 100 million people in South Korea, North Korea, China, Japan, and the US. Due to Korea’s increasing economic and political importance in North-East Asia, Korean is growing increasingly popular around the world as a foreign language. The “Korean Wave” has become an influential global phenomenon since the start of the 21st century, heavily impacting the contemporary cultures, music, film, and television industries, and behavioral aspects of various people throughout the world.
HIGH BEGINNER/LOW INTERMEDIATE
This level is for students who have at least 40 hours of classroom time in the language within the last two years and can read all characters. Students should possess the knowledge comparable to the first 13 lessons of Integrated Korean: Beginning 1 Third Edition.
COURSE CODE: KOHB
Sec. 01: 9 Mondays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 15 | $300
POLISH
Edward Mitukiewicz | Native Speaker
Polish is a West-Slavic language, the official language of Poland and one of the official languages of the European Union. After numerous waves of emigration since the beginning of the 19th century around 10 million people speak Polish around the world in addition to the approximately 38 million of speakers who reside in Poland. One of the largest diaspora communities is located in the US where Polish is spoken by 3.5 million people. Join them with a patient and experienced instructor who can guide you through this unique and interesting language.
BEGINNER LEVEL 1
COURSE CODE: PLB1
Sec. 01: 6 Mondays, 7:15-8:45pm. Begins Jul. 6 | $200
REFRESHER BEGINNER LEVEL 3/4
COURSE CODE: PLRE
Sec. 01: 6 Mondays, 5:30-7pm. Begins Jul. 6 | $200
RUSSIAN
Katya Maher | Native Speaker
Russian is the largest native language in Europe, with 144 million native speakers in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and is also widely spoken in Central Asia. Russian is the eighth most spoken language in the world by number of native speakers and the seventh by total number of speakers. Our experienced instructor, Katya Maher, will make you familiar with how to read and write the Cyrillic alphabet and everything else you need to communicate in this language.
BEGINNER LEVEL 1+
COURSE CODE: RB1+
Sec. 01: 5 Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 23 | $170 No class Jul. 7
BEGINNER LEVEL 2
COURSE CODE: RUB2
Sec. 01: 5 Tuesdays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Jun. 23 | $170
No class Jul. 7
SUMMER CONVERSATION
For students who have studied Russian for at least a couple of years in a classroom setting and have a fairly large vocabulary and enough grammar to have a conversation in Russian.
COURSE CODE: RUSU
Sec. 01: 5 Thursdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 25 | $170 No class Jul. 9
SPANISH
Eva Ferreras, Alberto Roblest, Laia Roset Roig, Luz Elena Zuluaga | Native Speakers
Spoken in Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia, Spanish has the second largest number of native speakers in the world. It is also the second most studied language in the world, and the third most used language on the internet. Make Spanish your second language with our first-rate instructors.
BEGINNER LEVEL 1
COURSE CODE: SPB1
Sec. 01: 6 Wednesdays, 6-8pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $270 | Luz Elena Zuluaga
Sec. 02: 8 Thursdays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Jul. 9 | $270 | Alberto Roblest
BEGINNER LEVEL 2
COURSE CODE: SPB2
Sec. 01: 4 Weeks, Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:30-7pm. Begins Jun. 15 | $270 | Eva Ferreras
BEGINNER LEVEL 3
COURSE CODE: SPB3
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jul. 9 | $270 | Alberto Roblest
REFRESHER HIGH BEGINNER
This class is dedicated to reviewing the content of Beginner Level 1-3. It is designed for students who have completed Beginner Level 3 or an equivalent course in the past and would like to revisit and practice the basics of Spanish to prepare for everyday conversations.
COURSE CODE: SREH
Sec. 01: 4 Tuesdays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Jul. 28 | $135 | Laia Roset Roig
BEGINNER CONVERSATION
This class is for students that have completed our four beginner levels or the equivalent of it and are comfortable with using the present tense and have some knowledge of preterite and future. Reinforce your basic knowledge of the structure of Spanish, develop fluency with the past tenses, acquire new vocabulary, learn about culture, and practice with lively activities and conversations.
COURSE CODE: SPBC
Sec. 01: 6 Tuesdays, 5:30-7pm. Begins Jul. 7 | $200 | Luz Elena Zuluaga
REFRESHER LOW INTERMEDIATE
This class is for students who are comfortable with the basics of Spanish and have a knowledge comparable to the first chapters of Aula Internacional 2 Plus and would like to refresh and practice their speaking and listening skills.
COURSE CODE: SPIR
Sec. 01: 4 Wednesdays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Jul. 29 | $135 | Laia Roset Roig
INTERMEDIATE CONVERSATION
If you are pretty comfortable in everyday situations and in applying your solid knowledge of the basics of Spanish, now it’s time to practice expressing yourself in more complex situations, to voice opinions, and share points of views with your classmates, to increase your vocabulary and engage fully in the cultural context of Spanish.
COURSE CODE: SPCO
Sec. 01: 4 Wednesdays, 7:15-8:45pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $135 | Eva Ferreras
HIGH INTERMEDIATE
This class is for students who have at least 100 hours of classroom time in the language within the last 3 years, can enter into conversation on topics that are familiar or of personal interest, and can describe their experiences, hopes, dreams, and ambitions. Students will continue working with the textbook Aula Internacional 4 Plus
COURSE CODE: SPIH
Sec. 01: 6 Thursdays, 5:30-7pm. Begins Jul. 9 | $200 | Luz Elena Zuluaga
SPANISH ENCOUNTERS THROUGH MUSIC AND SONGS
Eva Ferreras | Native Speaker
Songs are a great medium to express a wide variety of universal emotions and a great window to other cultures. They are also very helpful and fun when learning Spanish. In every session, we will listen and process a couple of songs from different countries and genres. Improve your listening skills and review some grammar, learn new vocabulary and idioms, and enjoy the immersion in the language and the culture. For intermediate students (CEFR B1 and above). New materials each term.
COURSE CODE: SPSO
Sec. 01: 4 Mondays, 7:15-8:45pm. Begins Jun. 15 | $135
ADVANCED READING AND CONVERSATION: CUENTOS CORTOS
Luz Elena Zuluaga | Native Speaker
Con una amplia variedad de temas y estilos narrativos, este curso explora cuentos seleccionados de Juan Rulfo (Luvina), Julio Cortázar (Casa tomada), Gabriel García Márquez (Buen viaje, señor presidente), Laura Freixas (Final absurdo) y Javier Marías (El viaje de novios). A través de la lectura detallada y la discusión, examinaremos cómo estos autores combinan con genialidad y maestría la realidad, la fantasía y la imaginación para crear narrativas complejas que reflejan dimensiones sociales, políticas y psicológicas del mundo hispanohablante. Este curso es apropiado para estudiantes con un nivel avanzado de español.
COURSE CODE: SPCU
Sec. 01: 6 Tuesdays, 7:15-8:45pm. Begins Jul. 7 | $200
SPANISH EVENING WALKS AROUND THE RIVER
Laia Roset Roig | Native Speaker
Would you like to go for a walk and practice Spanish in a comfortable and friendly environment? If the answer is “¡Claro que sí!”, then this course is for you! We will walk one hour each week around the river speaking about topics that the participants are interested in. For intermediate students (CEFR B1 and above).
COURSE CODE: SPWE
Sec. 01: 4 Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jul. 28 | $135
Meeting point: Courtyard of 42 Brattle Street. Please note that the class will be conducted inside the building in case of inclement weather.
ADVANCED READING AND CONVERSATION: DON QUIJOTE AND SPANISH COLONIALISM
Laia Roset Roig | Native Speaker
Adéntrate este verano en el mundo de Don Quijote y descubre la España que dio vida a sus aventuras. En nuestro curso de español de nivel intermedio-avanzado, explorarás la vida, los sueños y los conflictos de este personaje icónico mientras conoces la realidad social y cultural del siglo XVII. Mejora tu español a través de actividades dinámicas y debates, y da vida a la historia. ¿Te atreves a ver el mundo a través de los ojos de Don Quijote?
COURSE CODE: SPQU
Sec. 01: 4 Wednesdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jul. 29 | $135
Free Personal Online Assessment Day
Need help with finding the right class for you? Register for our free online assessment day on Zoom for Spanish, French, Italian and German.
Tuesday, June 9, 6-7:30pm
For an online self-assessment, visit ccae.org/languagelevels. Contact Francesca Ferraris at languages@ccae.org or 617-547-6789 ext. 112 for more details.
I have no or little previous knowledge of the language. I would like to...
Identify familiar words & very basic phrases concerning myself, friends, family, & surroundings when people speak slowly & clearly.
A2
I have achieved most of the goals of A1.
I would like to... Understand phrases & the highest frequency vocabulary related to areas of most immediate personal relevance. Catch the main point in short, clear, simple messages & announcements.
B1
I have achieved most of the goals of A2. I would like to...
Understand the main points of clear speech, & the main point in radio or TV programs on current events, or topics of personal or professional interest.
B2
I have achieved most of the goals of B1. I would like to...
Advanced C1
I have achieved most of the goals of B2. I would like to...
Understand extended speech & lectures & follow even complex lines of argument. Understand most TV news & current affairs programs.
Understand extended speech even when it is not clearly structured & when relationships are only implied & not signaled explicitly. Follow television programs & films without too much effort.
Point out familiar names, words & simple sentences, such as on posters, notes or in catalogues.
Read very short, simple texts & find specific information in everyday material such as menus, advertisements, & short personal letters.
Ask & answer simple questions. Interact in a simple way with repetition & slow speech. Use simple phrases & sentences to describe familiar people.
Communicate in routine tasks & social interactions. Use a series of phrases & sentences to describe family, educational background & present work.
Understand texts with high frequency, everyday, or jobrelated language. Understand the description of events, feelings & wishes in personal letters.
Read articles & reports about contemporary problems in which the writers adopt particular attitudes or viewpoints. Understand contemporary literary prose.
Understand long & complex factual & literary texts, appreciating distinctions of style. Understand specialized articles & longer technical instructions.
Handle travel situations, enter unprepared into conversation on familiar topics, & connect phrases, give reasons & opinions, & describe plots of books or films.
Interact with fluency & spontaneity & explain a viewpoint & advantages & disadvantages of various options. Take an active part in discussions.
Write a short, simple postcard & fill in forms with personal details.
Use language flexibly & effectively for social & professional purposes. Present clear, detailed descriptions of complex subjects, integrating subthemes.
Write short notes, messages & personal letters relating to immediate needs.
Write simple texts on familiar or personal topics, such as letters describing personal experiences and impressions.
Write on a wide range of subjects, essay of support or against a topic, as well as personal letters highlighting the personal significance of events.
Write about complex subjects in a letter, an essay or a report, underlining what I consider to be the salient issues. Select style appropriate to the reader in mind.
English as a Second Language
“The instructor was always very kind and open to help. Good class atmosphere.”
—ANA, ESL ADVANCED CONVERSATION: READ, DISCUSS,
DEBATE!
CCAE offers in-person classes throughout the summer at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels taught by highly-trained and experienced instructors. Communicative, learner-oriented teaching methods and the multicultural atmosphere facilitate not only language learning but also friendships with people from all over the world. This summer, we offer two cycles of classes that meet multiple times a week to immerse students in English and allow students to advance through different levels and topics.
CYCLE 1: 5 WEEKS, BEGINS JUNE 22 | CYCLE 2: 5 WEEKS, BEGINS AUGUST 3
We use the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) to assess students and establish learning goals. To find the right level, attend our free online personal assessment days (p. 19) or contact Francesca Ferraris at languages@ccae.org. Please see p. 16 for level descriptions and visit ccae.org/classes/esl for our most up-to-date language classes.
ENGLISH INTEGRATED SKILLS CLASSES
Our integrated skills classes help students improve reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. At every level, students learn to interact in increasingly complex ways, from everyday to professional English. These classes require the purchase of a textbook.
Sec. 02: 5 Weeks, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 9:30-11am. Begins Aug. 3 | $315 | John O’Donnell No class Sep. 4
ESL INTENSIVE BEGINNER LEVEL 3 & 4 (21 HOURS)
John O’Donnell | ESL Instructor
COURSE CODE: SUB3
Sec. 01: 5 Weeks, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 12-1:30pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $315 No class Jul. 3
Sec. 02: 5 Weeks, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Aug. 3 | $315 No class Sep. 4
ESL INTENSIVE INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 1 & 2 (28 HOURS)
John O’Donnell | ESL Instructor
COURSE CODE: SUI2
Sec. 01: 5 Weeks, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $420 No class Jul. 3
Sec. 02: 5 Weeks, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 11:30am-1:30pm. Begins Aug. 3 | $420
No class Sep. 4
ESL INTENSIVE INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 3 & 4 (28 HOURS)
John O’Donnell | ESL Instructor
COURSE CODE: SUI4
Sec. 01: 5 Weeks, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 9:30-11:30am. Begins Jun. 22 | $420 No class Jul. 3
Sec. 02: 5 Weeks, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Aug. 3 | $420 No class Sep. 4
INTENSIVE PREPARATION FOR THE TOEFL (THE TEST OF ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
John O’Donnell | ESL Instructor
The TOEFL is the most widely-used test to measure English fluency in the world. Thousands of academic institutions, government agencies, and professional associations require a good TOEFL score for admission or membership. In this class, students practice the four skill areas evaluated on the TOEFL (reading, listening, speaking, and writing) using authentic test materials. Tips and strategies are shared to help students get the score they need for admission to their top universities. This course is also perfect for advanced-level students who may not be planning to take the TOEFL but wish to further develop their general English skills. We highly recommend attending one of our free online personal assessment days before enrolling in this class.
COURSE CODE: SUTO
Sec. 01: 5 Weeks, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 2-4pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $420 No class Jul. 3
ENGLISH SPECIFIC SKILLS CLASSES
INTERMEDIATE – CEFR B1 CONVERSATION
Claire Sehringer | ESL Instructor
This class is for intermediate-level students who want to improve their pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar while developing their conversational skills. Activities will include open discussions, debates, and presentations.
Improve your accent and acquire a communication edge in business that enhances professional relationships. Learn to hear and correct accented speech sounds that contribute to misunderstood speech. After reviewing why certain sounds are so troublesome, we will practice universally difficult sounds, using a technique that builds new habits of speech. Please bring a recording device to class, $40 for class materials, and a willingness to practice!
Steven Bloomberg | Communications Skills Developer
Develop conversational fluency, increase confidence, and learn that English grammar is not so complicated. We’ll take a deeper dive into grammar that you’ve already learned, learn about grammar that is less frequently used, and explore new words and expressions. We’ll also use ordinary, everyday topics, online media, and current events to provide context for grammar and new words and expressions. Grammar topics for review include hypothetical language, modal verb review, verb use, and more.
Steven Bloomberg | Communications Skills Developer
This is for people who never stop. Develop your ability to communicate at even higher levels. We’ll take a deep dive into topics that challenge you so that you can improve your ability to form more complicated thoughts and ideas. Steve will listen and help you identify ways to improve grammatical accuracy, learn structures used infrequently, learn more words and expressions, and improve speaking skills in general. We’ll use audio and printed texts to kick off some of our discussions. Find out how high-level speakers like you can improve.
COURSE CODE: ENCT
Sec. 01: 4 Fridays, 7-9pm. Begins Jul. 10 | $150
INTENSIVE WRITING & GRAMMAR
John O’Donnell | ESL Instructor
If you have a good command of English, but find that your writing needs help, this is the class for you. We focus on vocabulary and word forms, grammar, punctuation, and practice. Verb tenses, sentence structure, paragraph building, and essay development are all part of the curriculum. Students will have a lot of opportunities to practice expressing themselves in written English. In this class, all major forms of writing will be covered, including letters (business and personal), journals, essays, and other forms that students find helpful. This class is great for any high intermediate or advanced student who wants to improve their written English and is especially recommended for students preparing for the TOEFL.
COURSE CODE: SUWA
Sec. 01: 5 Weeks, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 2:30-4:30pm. Begins Aug. 3 | $420 No class Sep. 4
MAKE IT CLEAR: ADVANCED PRONUNCIATION AND ACCENT REDUCTION
Steven Bloomberg | Communications Skills Developer
With this course, you can improve and be understood the first time. You’ll receive coaching and materials to guide your practice. Steve’s precise and specific method helps you speak more naturally while maintaining your unique identity as an international professional here in the USA. This course takes an intonation centered top-down and bottom-up approach, which means we focus on the big picture first and then specifics. We’ll use song lyrics to liven things up and make it more interesting.
COURSE CODE: ENIP
Sec. 01: 5 Weeks, Mondays & Wednesdays, 7-9pm. Begins Aug. 3 | $315
READ, DISCUSS, DEBATE!
Claire Sehringer | ESL Instructor
This class is for advanced ESL students who want to improve their vocabulary, comprehension, cultural understanding, and speaking confidence in a fun class based on reading and discussion. Students will be exposed to different English content including videos, articles, news topics, cartoons, and stories. The class format will include discussions, debates, and partner and group work, as well as individual and group presentations. Students are invited to suggest topics of interest.
COURSE CODE: ERDD
Sec. 01: 4 Weeks, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 11am-1pm. Begins Aug. 4 | $240
Free Personal Online Assessment Days
Need help with finding the right class for you? Register for one of our free online assessments on Zoom.
Thursday, June 11, 9:30-11am Tuesday, June 16, 6-7:30pm
Monday, July 27, 9:30-11am
Wednesday, July 29, 6-7:30pm
Contact Francesca Ferraris at languages@ccae.org or 617-547-6789 ext. 112 for any questions.
ENGLISH PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CLASSES
CULTURAL AWARENESS FOR WORK AND BUSINESS COMMUNICATION IN THE US
Steven Bloomberg | Communications Skills Developer
Optimize your communication for work and business in the States by becoming aware of American communication culture. We’ll practice presentations, meetings, project updates, and more. Everyone will practice individually and in pairs or groups. You’ll receive coaching, suggestions, ideas, and tips to communicate more effectively, confidently, and competently. We’ll discuss your experiences and observations and how you can adapt to better maximize your success at work. Intercultural communication awareness can improve your communication skills at work. Topics include getting to the point, directness, tactful language, agreeing and disagreeing, information presentation, assertiveness, and more.
COURSE CODE: ECAB
Sec. 01: 6 Saturdays, 11am-1pm. Begins Jul. 18 | $210
THE POWER OF YOUR BUSINESS VOICE: PROMOTE YOURSELF AT WORK
Steven Bloomberg | Communications Skills Developer
Develop your vocal expression and strength to be a more convincing communicator at work and in business. Unlock your power and project your real self at work when you speak with leadership, team members, cross-functional teams, and clients. Learn to use the power of your voice to promote yourself at work. We will participate in speaking practice activities and exercises and receive coaching and guidance. We’ll also introduce and explore rhetoric as a way to create stronger and more convincing messages. For advanced ESL students.
Visit ccae.org to learn more about the classes, the instructors, and your level. Let us answer your questions and help you choose a class. Email us at languages@ccae.org or call 617-547-6789
Need help finding the right class for you? Register for one of our free online assessments on Zoom: Thursday, June 11, 9:30-11am Tuesday, June 16, 6-7:30pm Monday, July 27, 9:30-11am Wednesday, July 29, 6-7:30pm For an online self-assessment, visit ccae.org/language-levels , or contact Francesca Ferraris at languages@ccae.org or 617-547-6789 ext. 112.
ENIP: Make it Clear: Advanced Pronunciation and Accent Reduction 5 Weeks, Mondays & Wednesdays, 7-9pm. Begins Aug. 3 | $315 ERDD: Read, Discuss, Debate! 4 Weeks, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 11am-1pm. Begins Aug. 4 | $240
NEED A SCHOLARSHIP?
SUWA: Intensive Advanced Writing and Grammar 5 Weeks, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 2:30-4:30pm. Begins Aug. 3 | $420
ENPV: The Power of Your Business Voice: Promote Yourself at Work 5 Fridays, 7-9pm. Begins Aug. 7 | $175 Weekend ABET: Accent Improvement Workshop Saturday & Sunday, 9:30am-12:30pm. Jul. 18 & 19 | $110
CCAE offers financial assistance of 50% off tuition for qualifying adults of all ages. Some restrictions apply. See ccae.org/about/scholarships for details. If you have any questions, please contact our Student Services Manager at info@ccae.org . ECAB: Cultural Awareness for Work and Business Communication in the US 6 Saturdays, 11am-1pm. Begins Jul. 18 | $210 All Classes are In-Person
Humanities
LITERATURE
HERMAN MELVILLE’S SHORT STORIES
Susan Glassman | Ph.D., English, University of Rhode Island
Herman Melville’s short stories, primarily written in the 1850s after the commercial failure of Moby-Dick, often mask deep social and metaphysical rebellion hidden beneath seemingly bland or “safe” magazine-ready surfaces. In his shorter works, he frequently explored the themes of isolation and alienation; passive resistance and the limits of authority; critique of capitalism and industrialization; and mental illness and psychological turmoil. Join us in reading, understanding, and appreciating Melville’s stories through informal lecture and lively discussion. We will analyze themes, characters, setting, symbolism, and style in his stories. For the first session, please read “Bartleby the Scrivener” in Great Short Works of Herman Melville (ISBN 978-0-06-058654-6)
COURSE CODE: HEME
Sec. 01: 8 Tuesdays, 10:30-11:45am. Begins Jun. 16 | $290
Sec. 02: 8 Tuesdays, 2-3:15pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $290
THE MAKING OF THE MODERN WORLD
Meghan Peters|M.A. in International Relations, University of Sydney
This course explores how the world we live in came to be through readings of literature and nonfiction. Through accessible readings and guided discussion, we will trace key forces, from colonialism, migration, global trade, and social change, that shape our current moment. This course aims to learn together through conversation and shared inquiry. Ideal for those who are curious about the world, its histories, and how the past continues to shape today’s global events. Main texts include Prisoners of Geography, Guns, Germs, and Steel, Why Nations Fail, and A Small Place.
COURSE CODE: MOWO
Sec. 01: 5 Thursdays, 5-6pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $110
“I appreciated the instructor’s enthusiasm and his ability to explain very complicated things extremely well. It made me eager to learn more!”
—PAOLO, INTO THE DARKNESS: A CRASH COURSE IN BLACK HOLES
QUO VADIS: LOVE, POWER, AND FAITH IN ANCIENT ROME
Elena Shabliy | Master of Liberal Arts and a Ph.D. from Tulane University
This course explores the classic novel Quo Vadis: A Narrative of the Time of Nero by Nobel Prize-winning author Henryk Sienkiewicz. Set in Rome during the reign of Emperor Nero, the book portrays early Christianity, Roman politics and culture, and the tension between power and conscience. Through close reading and discussion, we will examine how themes such as love, persecution, and moral courage still speak to readers today; we will pay special attention to the novel’s three central themes — love, power, and faith — and how they collide in Nero’s Rome. The passionate relationship between Marcus Vinicius and Lygia will help us explore different understandings of love: romantic, self-giving, and spiritual. Through Nero’s court, the persecution of Christians, and the everyday life of Roman citizens, we will consider how power can both corrupt and protect, and how it shapes personal choices.
COURSE CODE: OVLP
Sec. 01: 8 Wednesdays, 7:45-8:45pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $175
THE AMERICAN POETESS
Shebati Sengupta | PhD Candidate and Writer
From Anne Bradstreet to Amanda Gorman, women have been shaping and responding to the United States through poetry for centuries. In this course, we will read poetry by women from the 18th to the 21st centuries. Each week, we will focus on a collection centered around themes such as the creation of America, landscapes, imagined futures, war poetry, and family and community. Together, we will enjoy the pleasure of poetry while examining the historical and social contexts in which these women wrote.
COURSE CODE: TESS
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $265
IN COMPARISON TO HER: EXPLORING THE FAMILIAL, GENERATIONAL, AND SOCIETAL DIFFERENCES OF WOMEN IN LITERATURE
Melanie D. Reeves | Professor of Literature Instructor
In this course, we will explore the diverse cultures and lives of humankind through the art form of fiction, with a focus on the expectations and the culture of womanhood. In our pursuit, we will examine the mother-daughter relationship between An-Mei Hsu and Rose Hsu Jordan in The Joy Luck Club (1989) by Amy Tan, and the sister relationship between Celie and Nettie in The Color Purple (1982) by Alice Walker. From our findings, we may gain insight into the following questions: What are the expectations of womanhood? How do these respective pieces of literature communicate the culture of womanhood? How are joy, pain, and suffering communicated? What missteps do we as humankind keep making regarding womanhood?
COURSE CODE: WOME
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 6:30-7:45pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $220
LOVE IN ARABIC POETRY: THE BELOVED WITH A THOUSAND FACES
Alaa Aldeen Kayali | MA in Theological Studies, Harvard Divinity School
This course examines the theme of love in Arabic poetry, ranging from the pre-Islamic era to contemporary times. We will read Arabic poetry in translation alongside secondary scholarship focusing on the following poets and poetess: ʿAntarah ibn Shaddād (d. c. 608), Laylā al-Akhyaliyyah (d. c. 704), Rābi ah al- Adawīyah (d. 801), Qays ibn al-Mulawwaḥ (Majnūn Laylā, d. c. 688), al-Būṣīrī (d. 1294), Mahmoud Darwish (d. 2008), Abdullah al-Baradouni (d. 1999), and Chafika B. Ouail. Each poet and poetess offers a unique perspective on the beloved, whether divine, nature, prophet, human, city, land, or even the poet’s and poetess’ very self. We will be introduced to concepts such as platonic love (ḥubb ʿudhrī), Sufism (taṣawwuf), prophetic praise (madīḥ nabawī), longing (shawq), and patriotic love. The course will also explore sung poetry, including ʿAbd Allāh al-Baradūnī’s “yā Muṣṭafā” among other prophetic praises (madāʾiḥ nabawiyyah), sung Ṣūfī poetry, musical settings of Majnūn Laylā, and various musical versions of love poems. All readings will be provided in English translation.
COURSE CODE: ARPO
Sec. 01: 6 Wednesdays, 6-8pm. Begins Jul. 15 | $260
MISS MARPLE: CHRISTIE’S FINEST DETECTIVE
Olga Turcotte | Jungian Consultant and Instructor
In the nebulous field of crime detection, Poirot and Holmes vie to possess the highest number of gray cells, but it is to Miss Marple that we turn when we need a fine connoisseur of human nature to reveal why we commit the crimes that we do. In her, Christie has combined the determined gentleness of a well-bred woman with the tenaciousness of a strong soul who possesses a keen insight into the workings of a criminal heart. While Hercule Poirot has the help of Captain Hastings and Sherlock Holmes relies on Dr. Watson, all Miss Marple needs is her knitting gear and access to the crime scene. For her, solving a crime is as easy as knitting a sock! Please acquire Miss Marple: The Complete Short Stories, ISBN 978-0-0620-7371-6, and read “The Tuesday Night Club” from our first class.
COURSE CODE: MIMA
Sec. 026: 4 Thursdays, 1-2:30pm. Begins Aug. 6 | $130
WRITING
NONFICTION
IN SHORT: THE ART OF FLASH ESSAY WRITING
Olga Katsovskiy | Writer/Editor/Educator
Compelling flash essays capture dramatic moments in our lives, which leave lasting impressions like a shooting star or a meteor strike. Flash essays are concise and contain profound revelations. This writing-intensive course will deepen your appreciation of this innovative genre. We will experiment with story structure, drawing inspiration from narrative and hermit crab essays, and launch into our own. Everyone will have an opportunity to share and receive feedback.
COURSE CODE: GLOW
Sec. 01: 8 Wednesdays 7-8:30pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $290
MEMOIR WORKSHOP: WRITING YOUR STORY
Cara McPhee | Author, Editor, & Reader
In this course, we will learn the fundamentals of what makes a memoir, how to approach an audience, and how to find your voice for your story. How do you make “you” a character? When do you confide and how do you conceal? When do you know the book is done? All these questions and more will be posed and answered as we work as a group to write, meditate, and practice introspection on life. meditate, and practice introspection on life.
COURSE CODE: MAKE
Sec. 01: 4 Fridays, 5:30-7pm. Begins Jun. 26 | $265
No class Jul. 3
Support CCAE with a Gift Today
Cambridge Center for Adult Education has long been a beacon of learning in Cambridge. Even with its rich and storied history, CCAE needs your support today.
A donation to CCAE maintains:
› Scholarships for under-resourced students
› Our two beautiful historic buildings in Harvard Square
› Expert faculty and staff who create, facilitate, and execute the inspiring, relevant cirricula foundational to who we are.
ccae.org/donate
EDITING TO PUBLISH: HOW TO EDIT LIKE A PRO
Cara McPhee| Author, Editor, & Reader
Whether you’re just starting or in the final stages of writing your book, knowing how to edit your work is essential to unlocking success. This course will advance your writing, prepare you for publication, and reinvigorate your inspiration. We will focus on how to approach editing with a critical eye, a deep dive into the writing cycle, and hands-on editing techniques to help you complete the process. Open to all levels of experience! If you have a piece you want to work on, please bring it along. Otherwise, material will be provided!
COURSE CODE: PUBL
Sec. 01: 5 Thursdays, 5:30-7pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $165
MEMOIR, PERSONAL ESSAY & BEYOND: CREATIVE NONFICTION CRASH COURSE
Olga Katsovskiy | Writer/Editor/Educator
Take this class to learn about one of the most exciting fields of writing in contemporary literature. To write compelling true stories (nonfiction), you need to familiarize yourself with the basics of imaginative writing (creative), including character, voice, exposition, plot, imagery, and detail. We will read memoir excerpts, personal essays, flash, and micro-essays to gain a deeper appreciation of this innovative genre. The class includes guided writing prompts and discussion.class
COURSE CODE: BEON
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-12:30pm. Begins Jun. 20 | $50
BENDING GENRES: CREATIVE NON-FICTION WRITING
Fabia Oliveira | Writer
Designed for the writer who is averse to rule-following, this course highlights experimental writing, hybrid forms, lyric poetry, and braided essays. Explore these new (and yet ancient) forms of what we think of as the modern essay. This is a generative writing course in which we will read historical examples that have pushed the boundaries of narrative writing. We will create our own writing in class from prompts and exercises. The course will focus on experimenting with form and borrowing techniques from poetry, fiction, drama, and beyond to create genre-bending works.
COURSE CODE: AVER
Sec. 01: 5 Mondays, 5-7pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $220
WRITING IN CURVES:
CREATIVE NONFICTION WORKSHOP
Olga Katsovskiy | Writer/Editor/Educator
Step into one of the most exciting genres in contemporary literature: creative nonfiction. Drawing inspiration from life’s ups and downs and the vast landscape of in-betweens, we will read and write personal essays. Each week, we will focus on different elements of craft, exploring topics fundamental to compelling essays, such as persona and narrative arcs. Students can develop one or several essays. Everyone will have an opportunity to workshop at least twice. Writers of all levels are welcome.
COURSE CODE: CURV
Sec. 01: 8 Mondays, 6-8pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $350
FICTION
STORYTELLING & WORLDBUILDING: A WRITING WORKSHOP
George Rosatone | Writer, Photographer & Film Director
Every second of every day, a story is being told. From the morning commute daydream to the last-minute call for takeout, all that stops these stray moments from growing into new adventures is an active mind and a focused pen. Alongside strategies deeply rooted in psychology, cultural studies, and good-old-fashioned overthinking, students will study a diverse selection of paintings, photography, literature, everyday moments, and more as they master their ability to romanticize the mundane or anchor the most fantastical ideas on the page. Beginner or otherwise, all writers will finish with a new story to tell.
COURSE CODE: ROOT
Sec. 01: 8 Tuesdays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $265
BEGINNERS’ WRITING: FIRST DRAFT
Christina Fang | Writer
This beginner’s writing class will teach us to lean into the mess of writing first drafts. Getting that first draft together is difficult and frustrating for first-time writers and seasoned authors, leaving you with a jumble of words and thoughts. But second drafts only happen once the first is complete. Over this course, you will be given writing and reading assignments that will help you explore some key elements of what makes a good story: characters, dialogue, and details. All are welcome in this class, whether you’re returning to writing after a long hiatus or this is your first time getting pen to paper for creative work. Above all, this class is about finding joy in the writing process.
COURSE CODE: BASE
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 10-11:30am. Begins Jun. 18 | $265
No class Jul. 2 & 9
HOW TO WRITE A COMPELLING VILLAIN
Megan Hennessey | Developmental Editor
What makes a “good” villain? For many of us, we know a good villain when we see one, but crafting a compelling villain is more complicated than it seems. This eight-week course will examine villainous characters across genres, from romance to thriller, by studying craft elements such as point of view, characterization, motivation, and pacing. We’ll also examine the villain’s counterpart, the hero, to understand how these two character archetypes must work together to create a story that makes you want to turn the page.
COURSE CODE: EVIL
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 7-8:30pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $265
CRIP POETICS: EXAMINING POETRY AND THE DISABLED LENS
Allison Zaczynski | Poet
How does disability influence the poetic lens? Crip poetics is a movement in which disabled poets reclaim their identities by resisting and exposing ableism through poetry. In this course, we examine how disabled poets subvert expectations, stereotypes, and misconceptions through the craft and content of their writing. We will explore identity, intersectionality, and form through close readings of poems, discussions, and generative writing prompts. All are welcome.
COURSE CODE: CRIP
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 6-7:15pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $175
DEVELOP A SHORT STORY
Margaret Ferguson | Writer
This course focuses on crafting the short story from premise to page. Our weekly meetings will be organized around story elements, including structure, plot, character, point of view, setting, scene, and dialogue. Through writing exercises, discussions, and readings, a seed of an idea will become a full-fledged short story. We will conclude the course in workshops to refine content. This class is for beginning and intermediate fiction writers.
COURSE CODE: SHST
Sec. 01: 5 Mondays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jul. 6 | $165
POETRY
WRITING WITH THE HAIKUMASTERS
Jeanne Martin | Ed. D., Teacher Poet and Retreat Leader
Haiku, a short nature poem widely popular today, originated in 17th-century Japan. Who were the Japanese haiku masters instrumental in creating this poetry form? We will learn about Basho, Buson, Chiyo-ni, and Issa, read many of their haiku, and try our hands at writing haiku using their examples and advice. All are invited to this fun, supportive course. Each participant will receive a copy of the instructor’s book, The Length of One Breath: Haiku Now
COURSE CODE: BUSO
Sec. 01: 2 Thursdays, 3-5pm. Jul. 9 & 16 | $100
STAGE, SCREEN, & MORE
WRITING FOR MOVIES, TV, THEATER, GAMES, AND SOCIAL MEDIA
Andrew Osborne | Screenwriter, baitshop.org
Whether you want to create movies, TV shows, plays, video games, comic books, or web videos, learn the basics of scriptwriting in a supportive environment. At the same time, you work towards the first, second, or even final draft of a solid “spec” script. We’ll explore the three-act structure, industry-standard format, character, dialogue, and tips for surviving in the entertainment business and building your own audience.
COURSE CODE: REEN
Sec. 01: 8 Tuesdays, 7-9pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $350
HISTORY & CONTEMPORARY ISSUES
ADVANCING RACIAL JUSTICE: FROM LEARNING TO LEADING
Kim Beamon, Michelle Chalmers | Co-Facilitators
Our country has yet to address and repair the destruction of centuries of enslavement and segregation. Now, white nationalism and anti-DEI backlash are in resurgence. We all have a role to play in responding to that — and it’s not “saviorism.” For 25 years, this intensive workshop has gathered small groups to build our antiracist analysis of ourselves and our society, practice speaking up about it, and take concrete actions to challenge its impacts within our workplaces, neighborhoods, and wherever we have influence. You’ll leave with new skills, a new support system, and a clearer vision for bringing justice to your world. This five-session workshop welcomes participants of all identities. Please note: Attendance at the five sessions and completion of all assignments are expected. Each participant will receive a phone call from one of the facilitators before the start of this program to review these expectations. This workshop was originated by and is facilitated by White People Challenging Racism (WPCR).
COURSE CODE: ARAJ
Sec. 01: 5 M ondays, 6 :30-8 :30pm. Begins J un. 1 | $175
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN CRAFTIVISM! PROTEST
RECONSIDERING A PEOPLE’S HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES IN THE AGE OF TRUMP
Joshua
Frank | Local Educator
Gain new insight into this moment of division in the United States through analysis and discussion of Howard Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States. Through consideration of the stories of people whose role in our history has been forgotten, minimized or erased, each participant will share their emerging new understanding of our shared history and their place in that history. Required book: A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn.
COURSE CODE: PHUS
Sec. 01: 6 Tuesdays, 3:30-5:30pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $240 No class Jun. 23 & 30
THE REAL ESTATE OF ALTRUISM: RADICAL BENEVOLENCE IN CAMBRIDGE
Lavette Coney | Former WPCR Leader, Realtor, MAR DIME Task Force
Join us for a deep dive into an untapped Cambridge history that goes beyond traditional charity: the gifting of property as a radical act of love. This lecture traces a lineage of radical benevolence from the Gilded Age to the 21st century. We will explore the stories of visionary individuals who provided their disenfranchised neighbors with more than just temporary aid — they provided the permanence of a home. By examining these monumental acts of generosity, we see how they allowed families to plant roots, build security, and leave a lasting legacy for their grandchildren. This is more than a history lesson; it is a call to action, inviting us to rethink our relationship with real estate and consider how these forgotten models of benevolence can be revitalized to serve our community today.
COURSE CODE: ALCA
Sec. 01: Tuesday, 6-7:30pm. Jun. 23 | $35
ALLYSHIP WITH TRANS PEOPLE
Quinn Gutman | Trans Activist
Whether you know someone who’s trans and want to be a better ally to them, or you heard about trans people on the news and want to know what’s going on, this class is for you. We will discuss gender, practice viewing people in an objective way, proper etiquette when interacting with a trans person, using the right pronouns, and combating transphobia.
COURSE CODE: ALLY
Sec. 01: Thursday, 6-8pm. Jun. 25 | $45
ARCHITECTURAL HISTORY OF NATIVE NORTH AMERICA
Maggie Freeman | Ph. D. candidate in History of Architecture, MIT Rafael Abrahams | Ph.D. candidate in History, Brandeis University
What comes to mind when you think about Native American buildings? For most of us, it is probably the tipi first; then, perhaps, the wigwam or the earthlodge or the iglu. The list usually ends there, however, and most of us know very little about any of these buildings beyond their general form and materials. This course will offer a tour of Native American Indigenous architecture across history and geography. We’ll look at iconic Native American dwellings — adobe houses, iglus, tipis, wigwams — in addition to other, lesser-known forms of Indigenous architecture and infrastructure. We will discuss in depth the material, structural, formal, and environmental components of the buildings themselves, as well as how Indigenous architectures evolved and adapted in response to political, social, cultural, and climatic factors. And, rather than treating Indigenous architecture solely as a relic of the past, we will also discuss how forms and techniques of Indigenous architecture persist into the present day.
COURSE CODE: AHNA
Sec. 01: 4 Wednesdays, 3-5pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $170
CAMBRIDGE THROUGH TIME
Beth Folsom | Program Manager for History Cambridge
Cambridge is a collection of rich and diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct history and flavor. In this course, we will explore three of these neighborhoods - North Cambridge, East Cambridge, and Cambridgeport. How have they developed over the past several centuries? How have they been shaped by environmental forces, economics, architecture, and industry? What people and communities have called them home? And how does understanding these neighborhoods help us to better understand Cambridge as a whole?
COURSE CODE: CAMN
Sec. 01: 3 Wednesdays, 3-5pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $120
THE FIRST WORLD WAR IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Allan Converse | Ph.D. in Comparative History, Brandeis University
When most people think of the First World War, they think of the long, bloody struggle between the Allied and the Germans in the trenches of the Western Front. In fact, equally great struggles took place on other fronts, and arguably the most important of these was the Middle East. In 1914, the greater part of this region was ruled by the Turkish Ottoman Empire, a multinational state struggling to modernize and facing rising nationalism among its subject peoples. This class will follow the course of the campaigns between the Turks and the Allies in Gallipoli, Palestine, Iraq, and Arabia, the effects of the fighting on the many different peoples of the region, and how the war, the downfall of the Ottoman Empire, and the coming of the British and the French laid the groundwork for the Middle East we know today. It is a dramatic story full of vivid personalities like Sir Edmund Allenby, T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), Prince Feisal of the Hejaz, and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
COURSE CODE: WWME
Sec. 01: 6 Wednesdays, 3:30-5:30pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $240
WALKING TOURS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
MONUMENTS AND MEMORIALS IN CAMBRIDGE
History Cambridge
Cambridge is a city filled with monuments. Statues, plaques, and memorials across the city commemorate people and events from its nearly four hundred years of settlement. But who decides what is worthy of commemoration, and how does the memorial landscape of the city reinforce certain narratives of Cambridge history and exclude others? In this tour we will visit several of the many monuments in the city, examining not only the subjects they commemorate but also what they can tell us about the society that created them.
COURSE CODE: MMCA
Sec. 01: Tuesday, 5:30-7pm. Jul. 14 | $15
Sec. 02: Saturday, 10-11:30am. Jul. 18 | $15
Meeting point: Civil War Memorial, Cambridge Common
THE HISTORY OF CANDY-MAKING IN CAMBRIDGE
History Cambridge
One of the industries for which Cambridge is best known is candy-making — at its peak in the mid-twentieth century, the city boasted 66 different candy companies, including Squirrel Brand, Daggetts, and NECCO, and Main Street was nicknamed “Confectioners’ Row.” This tour will explore the history of candy-making in Cambridge from the 18th to the 20th centuries, including the longstanding ties of many wealthy Cambridge families to the sugar plantations of the Caribbean and the continuing economic ties to slavery and the sugar economy that greatly contributed to the rise of Cambridge as a candy-making hub.
COURSE CODE: HCCA
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 5:30-7pm. Aug. 12 | $15
Sec. 02: Sunday, 10-11:30am. Aug. 16 | $15
Meeting point: Squirrel Brand Park, 268 Broadway
PRINT THE LEGEND: THE WESTERNS OF JOHN FORD
Joshua Passell | Writer, Editor
If the Western film is the American epic, John Ford is America’s Homer. Myth can be as brutal as it is beguiling, and foundational myths have inspired artists for millennia. In John Ford’s West, we face the sublime and the sinful, the heartless and the heartbreaking, set in a landscape as awesome and formidable as Mounts Olympus and Sinai. We'll follow the exploits of three iconic screen personas: Henry Fonda, James Stewart, and John Wayne over eight films in five classes, from “Stagecoach” (1939) to “Cheyenne Autumn” (1964). Specific attention to be paid to the director’s art and craft. While brief clips will be played in class for discussion, students will watch the films on their own in preparation. Please see “Stagecoach” and “Cheyenne Autumn" for the first session. Other films to be assigned each week.
COURSE CODE: FORD
Sec. 01: 5 Thursdays, 4-5:30pm. Begins Jul. 9 | $150
ACHILLES AND BEOWULF: WHAT EPIC POETRY CAN TELL US ABOUT ANCIENT SOCIETY
John Horan | MA in Social Studies, University of Mississippi
When we attempt to uncover ancient history, often the only voices we hear are those of the poets who wrote their legends. We hear of gods and heroes, of great beasts and trials, but what do these stories tell us about the people who told these tales? This course explores how epic poetry reflects the societies and cultures it depicts. Should stories like the Iliad just be viewed as folk tales and literature, or can we glean history from them? This course will cover various poetry from around the world, where students will read sections of the poems and learn about the societies they depict.
COURSE CODE: EPAN
Sec. 01: 5 Thursdays, 4-5:30pm. Begins Jul. 9 | $150
BEOWULF AND ROSTAM: WHAT EPIC POETRY CAN TELL US ABOUT MEDIEVAL SOCIETY
John Horan | MA in Social Studies, University of Mississippi
Epic poetry was a way that medieval people told stories of their own people. But what do these stories tell us about the people who wrote them? Can the stories of Beowulf and the Gododdin teach us about the British Dark Ages? How much does Prince Rostam tell us about the Persian kings of the medieval world? In this five-week course, we will look at societies around the world from 500 C.E. to 1500 C.E.
COURSE CODE: EPME
Sec. 01: 5 Thursdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jul. 9 | $150
ARE REVOLUTIONS A GOOD IDEA? THEORY AND CASE STUDIES ACROSS HISTORY
Sendus Majanni | Arabic Literature Instructor
This course invites participants to think critically about the mechanics of power and to ask the difficult question: Do revolutions truly liberate, or do they merely replace one form of constraint with another? We will examine whether a revolution is defined by its hopeful beginnings, its violent processes, or its long-term consequences. We begin by engaging with political theorists to establish frameworks for what constitutes a "true" revolution, debating whether success is measured by the overthrow of a regime or the lasting stability of what replaces it. We will pick four of the following cases: The Papal Revolution, The Meiji Revolution, The Haitian Revolution, The Russian Revolution, the Iranian Revolution, and the Arab Spring. Through these examples, we will explore themes of ideological fervor, the role of violence, the influence of external powers, and the frequent gap between revolutionary promise and post-revolutionary reality. The course is conducted as a seminar, combining introductory lecturing with robust, open-ended discussion. Each session is grounded in curated readings (under 20 pages) from academic sources and respected journals.
COURSE CODE: REVO
Sec. 01: 6 Mondays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jul. 13 | $180
FEMINIST THOUGHT OF THE MIDDLE EAST
Sendus Majanni | Arabic Literature Instructor
This course introduces key voices in Middle Eastern feminist thought from the early twentieth century to the present through readings from Egypt, Morocco, Lebanon, Turkey, and Iran. We will explore how women intellectuals, writers, and philosophers have challenged social and religious norms, reinterpreted sacred texts, and theorized liberation in the face of colonialism, patriarchy, and modernity. Through close reading and discussion of literary, philosophical, political texts, we will consider how these thinkers respond to conditions specific to their histories yet deeply connected to global feminist concerns. Themes include the intersection of feminism and faith, the colonial encounter, sexual politics, legal reform, and the intellectual labor of women in constructing ethical and political agency. The course invites thoughtful, open discussion grounded in close engagement with the texts rather than survey or advocacy.
COURSE CODE: MEFE
Sec. 01: 6 Fridays, 5-6:30pm. Begins Jul. 17 | $180
CHONGCHON AND CHOSIN: DISASTER IN KOREA, 1950
Allan Converse | Ph.D. in Comparative History, Brandeis
By November 1950, the United States and United Nations forces had conquered nearly all of North Korea and had apparently won a clear-cut military victory in the Korean War. Just when the war appeared to be over, the Chinese Red Army attacked by surprise and inflicted a historic defeat on the United States Army. This course examines the background of the Chinese offensive and the failure of US strategy and intelligence, the course of the battle, and the effects of the American defeat on the rest of the Korean War and on subsequent US policy in the region.
COURSE CODE: KODI
Sec. 01: 5 Mondays, 3:30-5:30pm. Begins Jul. 27 | $200
TO RECONSTRUCT THE NATION
Joshua Frank | Local Educator
Based on the December 2023 edition of The Atlantic, explore our evolving and conflicted understanding of the critical period of Reconstruction after the Civil War, as well as its echoes in the present day. Featuring an 1866 essay by Frederick Douglass, as well as works by Anna Devere Smith, David Blight, Peniel Joseph, Drew Gilpin Faust, and others, this issue challenges us to consider and understand the ghosts of our past, and to work to fully exorcise them now and in the future. Instructor will provide all the material.
COURSE CODE: RECO
Sec. 01: 5 Tuesdays, 3:30-5:30pm. Begins Aug. 11 | $200
BRATTLE STREET: TORY ROW
Charles Bahne | Boston Historian
For more than two centuries, Brattle Street has been one of the finest residential streets in America. In 1775, George Washington and his army made their headquarters in the abandoned mansions of seven wealthy loyalists-all of which still stand today. In the centuries since, Brattle Street residents have invented baking powder, Fig Newtons, Polaroid cameras, and Sadie Hawkins Day. On this walking tour, we will see these sites and the homes of the poets Longfellow and Lowell.
COURSE CODE: TORY
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 5-7pm. Sep. 9 | $50
Meeting point: Courtyard of 42 Brattle Street. In case of inclement weather, this walking tour will be postponed to Wednesday, September 16.
Looking for a meaningful connection to your community, a way to explore new interests, or an outlet for your skills? Carve your own path through Cambridge Volunteers’ annual, remote Fall Volunteer Fair, where you select presentations and Q & A sessions with dozens of local agencies about volunteer and board member opportunities. Early registrants will receive advance notifications of event details and presenters, to help maximize your time at the fair.
COURSE CODE: VFAI
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 12-1:30pm. Sep. 30 | Free
ART HISTORY
25 GERMANIC ARTISTS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Susan Glassman | Curator
Join us for an in-depth exploration of 25 Germanic artists you should know, from Drer and Holbein in the sixteenth century through Klee and Richter in the twentieth century. Additional artists included in this course are Friedrich, Beckmann, Klimt, Kandinsky, and many other important Germanic artists. We will also discuss major movements of art, such as Romanticism, Expressionism, and the legacies of the Blue Rider and the Bauhaus. At each session, we will view works by three or four artists and learn interesting facts about their lives, the characteristics of their art, and their contributions to art history.
COURSE CODE: GAYK
Sec. 01: 7 Wednesdays, 2-3:45pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $235
HOW TO TALK ABOUT ART
Samantha Joyce | Curator
Art can feel intimidating if you haven’t studied it, but it doesn’t have to be. This four-week class provides simple and engaging strategies to help you feel more confident discussing art. Each week, we’ll explore a different approach: looking closely, making meaning, and connecting to the artwork personally. In the final session, we’ll visit a museum chosen by the group to put these skills into practice together.
Bailey Thaxston | Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability Advocate
Did you know the Cambridge area boasts hundreds of backyard apiaries? Become a part of this vital garden network that provides food sources for foraging honeybees! In this seminar for gardeners of all levels, students will learn how their gardening efforts, however large or small, can make a big difference to these tiny creatures. Participants will learn about the regional pathways of gardens that support honeybees and other pollinators, and leave with a selection of native plants to incorporate into their own garden spaces. Students are encouraged to bring garden gloves and a small garden spade or shovel, if they have them. Tuition includes a materials fee for flower plugs, soil, and pots to take home at the end of the class.
COURSE CODE: POLL
Sec. 01: Sunday, 10am-12pm. Jun. 28 | $50
THAT ROCKS! AN INTRODUCTION TO GEOLOGY
Sam Bovard | Geologist and Writer
Unearth a new world as we dig into rocks, minerals, and landscapes! In this class you will learn basic skills for understanding and identifying the geologic materials and landscapes that surround you. You’ll learn how we categorize rocks and why, and what these abstract categorizations mean in the larger world. You will get to work hands-on with physical samples of rocks and minerals, and learn specific tricks for identifying some common ones in our daily lives. We will also go out and see if we can identify any rocks and minerals in our urban environment together.
COURSE CODE: GEOL
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10-11:30am. Jul. 11 | $35
A CRASH COURSE IN ASTRONOMY
A.Sameer Nabi | Ph.D. Candidate in Materials Science and Engineering, BU
From exoplanets to exploding stars, and dark energy to the Big Bang, this course offers a front-row seat to the most fascinating phenomena in the universe. You’ll learn how astronomers have decoded the secrets of the night sky and explore the mysteries we cannot yet explain. Topics include our solar system, the life cycle of stars, compact objects, galaxies, dark matter, cosmology, and how astronomical instruments work. The course will aim to combine observation with computation: two sessions will be interactive stargazing nights with a portable telescope and binoculars, while hands-on computer simulations will let you model orbital mechanics, predict comet trajectories, and explore phenomena like tidal forces and planetary perturbations.
COURSE CODE: ACCA
Sec. 01: 8 Mondays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Jul. 13 | $265
HORTICULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS: GUIDED TOUR OF ARNOLD ARBORETUM
Arnold Arboretum Docent | Long-time Horticulture Interpreter
Join us for a leisurely and informative walk at the beautiful Arnold Arboretum. You’ll learn about the history of the Arboretum and how to identify the rare and precious plants the Arboretum has worked hard to cultivate along the way. This tour is for horticulture enthusiasts or those merely seeking a peaceful and informative stroll through one of Boston’s greatest natural landscapes. Be prepared to walk up to two miles, with suitable shoes and clothing for the weather and varied terrain.
COURSE CODE: ARBR
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10-11:30am. Jul. 18 | $35
PROTECT OUR PLANET: HOW TO CREATE A SUCCESSFUL, GRASSROOTS CAMPAIGN FOR YOUR LOCAL ENVIRONMENT
James Davis | Citizen Scientist & Environmental Policy Advocate
In this workshop, students will learn foundational principles of organizing friends and neighbors, successfully changing laws and institutions, and knowledge of high-impact opportunities to protect nature in our Massachusetts communities. From environmental laws to the dynamics of town, city, and state politics, this class will help students bring their ideas to fruition with hands-on mentorship and activities.
COURSE CODE: GCLE
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-7:30pm. Jul. 22 | $35
INTRODUCTION TO FOREST BATHING: SCIENCE AND EMBODIED PRESENCE
Cole Huang | Certified Nature Therapy Guide
In Japan, research has emerged since the 1980s on the health benefits of spending time immersed in nature, known as shinrin-yoku or “forest bathing.” Through a combination of indoor learning and an outdoor guided experience, you’ll explore the science behind its benefits and learn to slow down, engage your senses, and connect with the natural world. In the first class we will unpack the science behind forest bathing in a CCAE classroom. In the second class we will meet offsite to experience a forest bath. The tuition includes the presentation and the walk. If you have accessibility questions and concerns, please email info@ccae.org before the first class.
COURSE CODE: FOBA
Sec. 01: Friday & Saturday. Jul. 24 & 25 | $65
Required Evening Presentation at CCAE: Friday, 6-7:30pm. Jul. 24 Forest Bath: Saturday, 10am-12pm. Jul. 25, offsite at Arnold Arboretum
CACAO, CANNABIS, & SYNERGY
Tom Young | Science Educator & Budtender
Cacao and cannabis are two extraordinary plants that have enamored and inspired people for ages. In this course, participants will learn the science behind the compounds in cacao and cannabis that interact with our endocrine system and endocannabinoid systems, respectively. We will also discuss their synergistic effects and potential therapeutic uses for paired cannabis and chocolate. Participants of all levels of experience and familiarity with cacao and cannabis are welcome and can expect to leave the course knowing more about the intricate systems of their body and the properties of these two incredible plants.
COURSE CODE: CCSY
Sec. 01: Thursday, 6-8pm. Aug. 27 | $45
BIRDING HIGHLIGHTS: GUIDED TOUR OF ARNOLD ARBORETUM
Arnold Arboretum Docent | Long-time Horticulture Interpreter Join us for a leisurely and engaging birding walk at the beautiful Arnold Arboretum. Open to all levels of birding enthusiasts, you’ll be introduced to how to spot and recognize common local birds by sight and sound and deepen your appreciation of the natural world as you explore the Arboretum’s diverse landscapes. Your guide will also share highlights of its history and unique plant collections, offering helpful context for the habitats that attract a variety of birdlife. Whether you’re curious about birding or simply looking for a peaceful, educational outdoor experience, this walk offers an accessible and rewarding introduction. Be prepared to walk up to two miles, with suitable shoes and clothing for the weather and varied terrain.
COURSE CODE: ARBI
Sec. 01: Saturday, 8-10am. Aug. 29 | $45
FOUNDATIONAL FUN WITH FUNGI: HOW TO GROW, FORAGE, AND USE FUNGI
James Davis | Citizen Scientist & Environmental Policy Advocate
In this workshop, students will learn how fungi brought life to our planet, their applications to sustainability and health innovation, and the best ways to get started as an amateur grower and forager. Through hands-on demonstrations, students will find inspiration and joy in their pursuit of this timeless and impactful field of science.
COURSE CODE: GFUF
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-7:30pm. Sep. 2 | $35
A GLACIAL HISTORY OF NEW ENGLAND
Sam Bovard | Geologist and Writer
Ever wondered what formed Cape Cod into its unique shape? Or how the Boston Harbor Islands got there? What created Walden Pond? The answer to all of these questions is the same: glaciers! Up until about 10,000 years ago, much of the Northeast was covered with sheets of ice up to a kilometer thick and reaching as far south as Pennsylvania. These glaciers melted and reformed, carving out valleys, depositing sediment, and massively reshaping the landscape of New England. In this course we will look at the timeline of this period and the glaciers’ effects on the area. Students also will learn how to spot evidence of glaciers in everyday life. No prior geology knowledge is needed.
This introductory class is designed to provide a supportive and encouraging environment for beginners to learn the fundamentals of acrylic painting. You will learn about composition, light and shadow, and other key visual concepts while also learning how to mix colors, apply paint to different surfaces, and create texture and depth that will help in creating dynamic and engaging works of art. No experience is necessary.
COURSE CODE: BACY
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $335
Sec. 02: 8 Thursdays, 7:45-9:45pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $335
BEGINNER OIL PAINTING: THE PORTRAIT
Jeremy Durling | Artist, jeremydurling.com
In this engaging beginner oil painting course participants will explore the art of portraiture, learning foundational techniques to capture the essence of their subjects. Through demonstration and step-by-step instruction, students will explore the properties of oil paints, color mixing, and brushwork while focusing on composition, lighting, and facial proportions. All work will be done from direct observation of a model.
COURSE CODE: BOPP
Sec. 01: 8 Mondays, 6-9pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $535
“The instructor Adam creates a climate of relaxed learning and experimentation unlike any art class I have taken.”
—LAURA R., BOTANICAL WATERCOLORS
BEGINNER OIL PAINTING
Nasiri Guzman | Artist, @nasirisartpage
This introductory class is designed to provide a supportive and encouraging environment for beginners to learn the fundamentals of acrylic painting. You will learn about composition, light and shadow, and other key visual concepts while also learning how to mix colors, apply paint to different surfaces, and create texture and depth that will help in creating dynamic and engaging works of art. No experience is necessary.
COURSE CODE: PAPP
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 6-9pm. Begins Jun. 23 | $505
PAINTING THE FIGURE WITH COLOR
David Andrus | Artist, davidandrus.weebly.com
This class will focus on the use of vibrant color to create dynamic oil paintings from the live model that go beyond just copying. We will work with an increasing awareness of form and structure as well as looking at examples of past and present artists for inspiration. Please bring a canvas to the first class. Some figure drawing experience would be helpful.
COURSE CODE: PAIO
Sec. 01: 8 Fridays, 6-9pm. Begins Jun. 26 | $535
No class Jul. 3
Many of our art classes require students to purchase materials. A link to the supply list can be found in the class description on our website at ccae.org.
CCAE Studio School offers a group of coordinated classes that focuses on perceptual drawing and oil painting. We are interested in helping students develop skills that enable them to record and interpret, analyze and express. We are geared towards painting and drawing from life, stressing the importance of spatial relationships and careful observation. For more information, visit ccae.org/studio-school.
THE LANDSCAPE IN OIL
Adam Adkison | Artist, adamadkison.com
During this six week course, you will be guided through a series of landscapes using photographic references from start to finish. Utilizing two decades of experience Adam will cover various techniques such as block-ins, composition, balance, observational measurement, and putting in details that make a painting sing. In-depth demonstrations will guide the process followed by personal feedback for students as they work. Come learn some new skills, find comradery, and discover how to craft extraordinary landscapes.
COURSE CODE: LSCP
Sec. 01: 6 Wednesdays, 1-4pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $400
THE FIGURE: PAINTING IN COLOR
Brett Gamache | Artist & Art Instructor, brettgamache.com
Join us for a course in anatomy, color, and composition. With a focus on accurate observation, color theory, and anatomical structure, students will work to build the figure from simplified concept to a complex rendering while honing their direct observational skills with a live model.
COURSE CODE: PFIC
Sec. 01: 8 Mondays, 10am-1pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $550
LANDSCAPE PAINTING ON THE CHARLES
Brett Gamache | Artist & Art Instructor, brettgamache.com
Join us for a plein air landscape painting class along the banks of the Charles River. This class is for the beginner as well as the more advanced painter. Topics covered include: setting up, beginning a painting, composition, mixing color, creating space, and capturing light. Students are asked to bring materials (paints, brushes, easels, canvas) as well, as a lunch. A brief critique will end each class.
COURSE CODE: LPCR
Sec. 01: 8 Mondays, 1:30-4:30pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $530
LANDSCAPE PAINTING ON THE NORTH SHORE
Brett Gamache | Artist & Art Instructor, brettgamache.com
Join us for a plein air landscape painting class along the North Shore's seacoast with locations including Gloucester, Rockport, and Ipswich. Topics covered include: setting up, beginning a painting, composition, mixing color, creating space, and capturing light. Students are asked to bring materials (paints, brushes, portable easel, canvas). Oil painting is the preferred medium, some painting experience is required. This class will meet in-person outdoors.
COURSE CODE: PONS
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 9:30am-12:30pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $530
COLOR THEORY WORKSHOP
Amanda Hill | Artist / Muralist, www.abhill.com
This three-day color theory workshop will provide an exploration of color. Lessons will cover fundamental principles like hue, value, and saturation, and explore color mixing, symbolism, and the role of color in art and design. Open to students of all levels.
COURSE CODE: AHCT
Sec. 01: 4 Saturdays, 10am-2pm. Begins Jun. 20 | $250
No class Jul. 4
Sec. 02: 4 Sundays, 10am-2pm. Begins Jun. 21 | $250
No class Jul. 5
PORTRAIT INTENSIVE WORKSHOP
Amanda Hill | Artist / Muralist, www.abhill.com
Working with a live model, the class will focus on accurately depicting the face and head, including understanding relative proportions and facial structure while honing your understanding of color theory, value, and composition. This two-day intensive workshop is appropriate for both beginner and advanced students.
COURSE CODE: AHPW
Sec. 01: Saturday & Sunday, 10am-2pm. Aug. 22 & 23 | $185
FIGURE INTENSIVE WORKSHOP
Amanda Hill | Artist / Muralist, www.abhill.com
This two-day workshop is designed to help students develop their understanding of anatomy, posing, and gestures. We will be working with live, nude models. This course is appropriate for both beginners and advanced students.
COURSE CODE: AHFW
Sec. 01: Saturday & Sunday, 10am-2pm. Aug. 29 & 30 | $185
DRAWING
DRAWING WITH COLOR
Ellen Stutman | Artist, ellenstutman.com
We usually think of drawing in terms of lines. In this class, we’ll focus on colors and shapes to help us understand and draw what we see. We will learn about color mixing, using warm and cool colors, and differences in values to create volume, separating objects, and creating space. We’ll concentrate on the strength that color gives to our drawing, using your choice of pastels or oil pastels. Some drawing experience is useful but not necessary.
COURSE CODE: COLO
Sec. 01: 7 Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $280
DRAWING IN BARS
Bryan Ramey | Artist, artbyramey.com
Come sketch with us at a different Cambridge pub every week. Students will draw elements of the scene with portable mediums of their choice. Your charge is to draw from real life outside of the studio, and to capture the tone, gesture, and movement around you. The end goal is to improve your drawing ability and to become more comfortable drawing in public. All skill levels and drawing styles are welcome. Drinking is optional. Drawing is not. BYO materials.
COURSE CODE: DBAR
Sec. 01: 5 Wednesdays, 7:45-9:45pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $180
Sec. 02: 5 Wednesdays, 7:45-9:45pm. Begins Jul. 29 | $180
BEGINNER DRAWING
Nasiri Guzman, Geoffrey Halverson, Jason Polins | Artists
This carefully-planned series of exercises will introduce the beginner to the following elements of observational drawing: perspective, composition, light values, and contour. Students will begin by learning how to accurately measure and observe objects and the world around them. Classes will include instructor demonstrations and exercises in contour drawing, tonal drawing, and gesture drawing with plenty of time to practice in class and receive feedback from the instructor.
Sec. 02: 8 Thursdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $335 Jason Polins Sec. 03: 8 Mondays, 7:45-9:45pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $335 Nasiri Guzman
DRAWING WITH THE FIGURE
Jeremy Durling | Artist, jeremydurling.com
This course will explore figurative drawing as an artistic practice. We will begin with a study of construction and proportion and move into capturing a sense of gesture and light. All classes will be held with a live nude model. Appropriate for both the advanced artist or the beginner.
COURSE CODE: DRFH
Sec. 01: 8 Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $355
FIGURE DRAWING ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE BRAIN
Eric Bornstein | M.L.A., Harvard
A figure drawing is more than a collection of body parts. Capture the essence of your subject accurately with systematic practice of objective perceptual drawing skills. We will work with pencil and charcoal to organize the visual information that illuminates your subject’s unique configuration. Classes focus on gaining a familiarity with the materials, issues of composition, and the attainment of the right ambiance to render effective works. There will be a live model in the class.
COURSE CODE: FDRB
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $355
ANIMAL ILLUSTRATION
Michelle Stevens | Artist, michellestevensart.com
In this class we will explore various illustration styles and learn to render all different types of fauna by exploring techniques in watercolor and drawing, referencing various details, textures, and patterns of the animal kingdom. Reference material will be used in the classroom including nature photography, field guides, children’s book illustrators and the instructor’s own artwork. We will focus on both realistic and expressive rendering of animals to help you unlock your own personal style. The class closes out with a final project. All levels are welcome.
COURSE CODE: ILLA
Sec. 01: 8 Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 24 | $335
OPEN STUDIO FOR LIFE DRAWING
The open studio provides time and space for artists to draw from a live model. Each week, the model will hold a series of short poses ranging from one to twenty minutes. This is a great opportunity to draw from live models in the medium of your choice. There is no instructor present, but there will be a studio monitor.
COURSE CODE: STUD
Sec. 01: Friday, 7:45-9:45pm. Jun. 26 | $25
Sec. 02: Friday, 7:45-9:45pm. Jul. 24 | $25
Sec. 03: Friday, 7:45-9:45pm. Aug. 14 | $25
Sec. 04: Friday, 7:45-9:45pm. Sep. 4 | $25
OPEN STUDIO FOR LIFE DRAWING: DRAG EXTRAVAGANZA!
Join us for a special open figure drawing session where our model is none other than Boston's own drag superstar Tyler Kitten (@tyler.kitten.drag). This is a unique Saturday three-hour open drawing session that will bring art and performance together with the community in our 56 Brattle St. studios. Bring whatever medium you wish to use and a love of creative community. Poses will range from short form up to twenty minutes in length.
COURSE CODE: STDQ
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-1pm. Jun. 27 | $30
WATERCOLOR
AQUA FIGURA: WATERCOLOR FIGURE PAINTING IMMERSION
Bryan Ramey | Artist, artbyramey.com
Through this five-week course we will explore the human form as represented through ink and watercolor. With a focus on observational study, students will explore melding stark line work and mark-making with vibrant color washes to build the form. We will work from a live model, looking at the figure as our basis for creative and realistic understandings. This class is open to all levels but some painting or drawing experience is recommended.
COURSE CODE: WFPI
Sec. 01: 5 Tuesdays, 6-9pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $315
Sec. 02: 5 Tuesdays, 6-9pm. Begins Jul. 28 | $315
BOTANICAL WATERCOLORS: PAINTING THE FLOWER
Adam Adkison | Artist, adamadkison.com
The fragile beauty of flowers and the vibrancy of watercolors go handin-hand. In this class, the instructor will guide you through painting several types of flowers from start to finish. Lessons include color mixing, brush work, and step-by-step instruction, along with tips and tricks for watercolor that you can use for a lifetime. Explore the finer details of nature in color, light, and form. All levels from beginners to advanced are welcome. Tuition includes a $15 materials fee to cover the cost of flowers.
COURSE CODE: WAFL
Sec. 01: 6 Thursdays, 10am-12pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $255
STILL LIFE IN WATERCOLOR
Adam Adkison | Artist, adamadkison.com
Join Adam as he guides you through the world of still life in watercolor. Learn the composition concepts still life and how to use value, color theory, lines, and movement throughout the painting. References will include a variety of different objects such as fruits, vegetables, pottery, glass, reflections, flowers, and more. Students will gain understanding in how to set up their own still life. Join us in the discovery of new skills while having fun!
COURSE CODE: SLWC
Sec. 01: 6 Thursdays, 1-3pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $240
BUILDINGS IN INK AND WATERCOLOR
Adam Adkison | Artist, adamadkison.com
Join Adam as you create different types of architecture, first using waterproof ink and then layering over with washes of watercolor. Adam will give a short demonstration before each class, talking about varying techniques needed and showing how to perform them. This term we will be focused on old Americana buildings. Each class Adam will bring images of buildings from around the world to work from, but you are welcome to work from your own images. All levels of skill from beginner to advanced are welcome.
COURSE CODE: BIWA
Sec. 01: 6 Fridays, 3-5pm. Begins Jun. 26 | $240
No class Jul. 3
LANDSCAPES IN WATERCOLOR
Adam Adkison | Artist, adamadkison.com
In this six-week class Adam will show how to use watercolors to create a variety of landscapes. He will break it down into easy to understand methods with demonstrations and individual instruction. You will learn different tips to create the different elements in landscapes including trees, mountains, water, and more. Also you’ll learn the importance of creating depth in your landscapes. All levels from beginners to advanced are welcome.
COURSE CODE: LSIW
Sec. 01: 6 Fridays, 10am-12pm. Begins Jun. 26 | $240
No class Jul. 3
Need a Scholarship?
CCAE offers a scholarship assistance—50% off tuition. Some restrictions apply.
You can download guidelines and an application form at ccae.org/about/scholarships. If you have any questions please contact our Student Services Coordinator at info@ccae.org.
PRINTMAKING & PAPER ART
INTRODUCTION TO SCREENPRINTING
Hope Howard | Artist
Screenprinting, or silkscreen as it’s sometimes called, is a versatile print process perfect for both bold designs and soft painterly prints. In this class, students will learn the basics of screen printing at home, including using various forms of resist, printing on fabric, and creating a DIY exposure unit for making detailed stencils from printed transparencies. Over the course of eight weeks, students will find inspiration in contemporary printmakers and learn through demonstration, hands-on work time, and opportunities for feedback from the class.
COURSE CODE: SLKS
Sec. 01: 8 Tuesdays, 6-8:30pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $380
INTRODUCTION TO BOOKBINDING
Liticia Avery | Artist, Lendahanddesigns.com
This four-week course will provide students an introduction to various types of bookbinding techniques and terminology. We will begin with simple folded structures and simple stitch books, building skills to assemble more complicated stitched structures. This course is a great way to familiarize yourself with bookbinding and is perfect for those who are curious about the craft.
COURSE CODE: BKMK
Sec. 01: 4 Wednesdays, 5:30-8:30pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $235
INTRODUCTION TO CHIGIRI-E: SUMMER FLORAL WORKSHOP
Chihiro Sato | Artist, www.5u3.jp
Discover the calm, traditional art of Chigiri-e, a meditative Japanese technique of "painting" with hand-torn paper. In this session, we focus on the "feathered edge" method to build soft, organic layers and create gentle summer blossoms. You will learn to tear and layer textured fibers to achieve a beautiful watercolor-like effect. Join us in this screen-free space to enjoy a slow, tactile craft and the simple joy of creating together. A $50 materials fee per student is included in the tuition.
COURSE CODE: CGSF
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-12pm. Jun. 27 | $100
INTRODUCTION TO CHIGIRI-E: UCHIWA FAN WORKSHOP
Chihiro Sato | Artist, www.5u3.jp
Practice the art of Chigiri-e by moving beyond the canvas to decorate authentic Uchiwa (Japanese handheld fans). This traditional craft uses hand-torn Washi and plant-based papers to create rich, textured compositions. You will learn to balance seasonal designs—from summer blossoms to coastal scenery—directly onto the fan's surface. This workshop offers a screen-free environment to develop your layering skills while creating a beautiful, functional tool for the summer. A $50 materials fee per student is included in the tuition.
COURSE CODE: CGUF
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-12pm. Jul. 25 | $100
INTRODUCTION TO CHIGIRI-E: WASHI AMBIENT LIGHT WORKSHOP
Chihiro Sato | Artist, www.5u3.jp
Welcome the change of seasons by making a custom shade for a mini cordless light. In this workshop, you will use the Chigiri-e technique of tearing and layering Washi (Japanese paper) to decorate your light with simple autumn motifs like falling leaves or harvest colors. We will work with the natural translucency of the paper to create a soft, diffused glow. Join us for a quiet, tactile session to create a unique piece for your home as the evenings begin to cool. A $50 materials fee per student is included in the tuition.
COURSE CODE: CGAL
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-12pm. Aug. 29 | $100
GLASS
FUSED GLASS CABOCHONS FOR JEWELRY MAKING
Michel L’Huillier | Stained Glass and Fusing Artist
In this hands-on workshop, students will be introduced to creating their own fused glass cabochons using colored, transparent and opaque glass, with copper and silver inclusions. Students will learn to cut and arrange glass to make organic and geometric designs. Finished compositions will then be fired to create unique cabochon pieces, ready to be made into jewelry. A $50 material fee is paid to the instructor on the day of class.
COURSE CODE: FGCJ
Sec. 01: Sunday, 10am-1pm. Aug. 9 | $100
GLASS SCULPTURE: LIGHT AND COLOR
Michel L’Huillier | Stained Glass and Fusing Artist
Create a low relief mold made with ceramic fiber (a soft material easily cut or torn) on top of which 3 layers of glass (8" x 11") will be kiln-fired at 1500*. The glass sheets will become one solid piece and take the imprint of the texture and the shapes of the fiber pieces exactly like you handcrafted it. You will have the option to bring colors to your project by cutting colored pieces of thin fusible glass. Your instructor will fire your creation in his own kiln and return them to CCAE for pickup following the class. A wooden frame is optional and available for sale directly from the instructor for $25.00 . No previous glass experience is necessary. A $145 materials fee per student is included in the tuition.
COURSE CODE: GSLC
Sec. 01: Sunday, 10am-1pm. Aug. 30 | $245
GARDEN GLASS
Michel L’Huillier | Stained Glass and Fusing Artist
In this two-hour workshop you will learn the basics of glass fusing while having fun playing with glass shapes, colors and textures. First, you will learn how to use glass powders, frits, confetti, stringers, and copper sheets. Then, you’ll design and create your own garden display using one of the two frames available: a slim rectangle 3” x 24” or a 8” circle. Once fused your glass creation will be installed inside the sturdy metal frame that stands about 40” tall for the rectangle and 48” tall for the circle. The frame, the fusible glass and the kiln firing are included in the tuition price. Your instructor will fire your glass creations in his own kiln. They will be available within two weeks. The class is open to adults, and teenagers accompanied by a participating adult. A $125 materials fee per student is included in the tuition.
COURSE CODE: GAGL
Sec. 01: Sunday, 1:30-3:30pm. Aug. 30 | $205
GLASS FUSING: SUSHI SET
Michel L’Huillier | Stained Glass and Fusing Artist
In this three-hour workshop, you will learn the basics of glass fusing while having fun playing with glass shapes, colors, and textures. Students will design and create their own sushi set: including a big square plate or long channel plate, two individual 6’’ x 6’’ dishes, and one small 3’’ x 3’’ dipping sauce dish. Additional dishes can be made at an extra cost, payable to the instructor during class. Please note: Students must wear closed-toed shoes; safety glasses will be provided. The instructor will fire the pieces in his own kiln. They will be available at CCAE within two weeks. A $155 materials fee is included in the tuition per student.
COURSE CODE: GFSS
Sec. 01: Sunday, 10am-1pm. Sep. 13 | $255
TACK FUSING: LANDSCAPES & BOUQUETS
Michel L’Huillier | Stained Glass and Fusing Artist
In this two-hour glass fusing workshop you will learn the basics of glass fusing by creating one tile (8’’ x 10’’) that will be kiln-fired at 1400 degrees — a low temperature that allows the glass elements of your design to stay three-dimensional. Create a composition with powders, frit, confetti, copper, stringers, and glass ribbons. Landscapes and flowers are popular sources of inspiration, but students are welcome to explore other ideas. The instructor will fire the creations in his own kiln. The workshop is open to adults and teenagers accompanied by a participating adult. No previous glass experience is necessary. Safety note: Students must wear closed-toe shoes. Safety glasses are required and will be provided for students not wearing eyeglasses. A $95 materials fee per student is included in the tuition.
COURSE CODE: TACK
Sec. 01: Sunday, 2-4pm. Sep. 13 | $205
JEWELRY
BEGINNING JEWELRY
Laura Jaklitsch | Metalsmith, laurajaklitsch.com
In this multi-week class, beginning jewelry students will learn to design and fabricate their own handcrafted jewelry. Students will learn how to texture, file, form, solder, sand, and polish as they make different projects, which may include a ring, bangles, and bezel-setting a stone. All materials will be provided. There is a $50 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class.
COURSE CODE: JEBE
Sec. 01: 8 Tuesdays, 6-9pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $455
INTERMEDIATE JEWELRY
Laura Jaklitsch | Metalsmith, laurajaklitsch.com
For students who have completed our multi-week Beginning Jewelry class, or have taken three or more single-session beginner jewelry classes, join us to further your design and fabrication skills. You will undertake more challenging projects while learning how to customize them, these may include a hollow ring project, prong setting, and tube setting a stone. All materials will be provided and there is a $50 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class.
COURSE CODE: JWIN
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 6-9pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $455
ADVANCED STUDIO JEWELRY
Laurie Savage | Metalsmith
If you have taken ten or more intermediate/advanced-level jewelry classes or have a similar experience, join us to polish your skills to the highest level. You’ll enjoy open studio time in which to create the jewelry of your own design with direction from the instructor. There is no materials fee; please bring the materials you intend to use. Enrollment in this class is allowed only with permission from the instructor; email us your request at info@ccae.org and include your experience. The instructor will reply to you directly.
COURSE CODE: JEWA
Sec. 01: 7 Wednesdays, 6-9pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $400 No class Jul. 22 & Aug. 19
BEGINNING JEWELRY: STERLING SILVER BAND RING
Laurie Savage | Metalsmith
Beginning jewelrymaking students will learn the fundamental techniques for designing and fabricating a sterling silver textured band ring. Students will learn how to texture, file, form, solder, sand, and polish the ring. All materials will be provided, including sterling silver, copper (for practicing techniques), saw blades, solder, and sandpaper. A materials fee of $50 is payable to the instructor on the day of the class.
COURSE CODE: JEWR
Sec. 01: Friday, 5:30-9:30pm. Jul. 10 | $105
Sec. 01: Friday, 5:30-9:30pm. Aug. 14 | $105
BEGINNING JEWELRY: BANGLE BRACELETS
Laurie Savage | Metalsmith
Beginner jewelrymaking students can continue learning in this workshop which focuses on creating a set of three textured bangle bracelets, one each in sterling silver, bronze, and copper. Students will learn to further develop their fabrication skills, including measurement, texturing, filing, forming, soldering, and tumbler finishing. All materials will be provided, including sterling silver, bronze, and copper (in different shaped wires), saw blades, solder, and sandpaper. A materials fee of $50 is payable to the instructor on the day of the class.
COURSE CODE: JEBB
Sec. 01: Friday, 5:30-9:30pm. Jul. 17 | $105
Sec. 02: Friday, 5:30-9:30pm. Aug. 28 | $105
BEGINNING JEWELRY: STERLING SILVER PENDANT WITH BEZEL-SET STONE
Laurie Savage | Metalsmith
Beginning jewelrymaking students can continue learning in this workshop which focuses on creating a sterling silver pendant with a bezel-set cabochon stone. Students will develop their fabrication skills, including drilling, sawing, piercing, filing, multiple soldering techniques, making jump rings, satin finishing, and setting the stone. All materials will be provided: sterling silver sheet and wire, copper (for practice), cabochon stone, saw blades, solder, and sandpaper. A materials fee of $50 is payable to the instructor on the day of the class.
COURSE CODE: JEPD
Sec. 01: Friday, 5:30-9:30pm. Jul. 31 | $105
BEGINNING JEWELRY: EARRINGS
Laurie Savage | Metalsmith
Beginning jewelrymaking students will learn different techniques for designing and fabricating six pairs of earrings. Students will learn how to form, file, solder, texturize and shape both freeform and geometric designs. All materials will be provided, including sterling silver, copper (for practicing techniques), solder, and sandpaper. A materials fee of $50 is payable to the instructor on the day of the class.
COURSE CODE: JEER
Sec. 01: Friday, 5:30-9:30pm. Aug. 7 | $105
Sec. 02: Friday, 5:30-9:30pm. Sep. 11 | $105
INTERMEDIATE OPEN STUDIO JEWELRY
Laura Jaklitsch | Metalsmith, laurajaklitsch.com
Bring your sketches and ideas for an intermediate jewelry project to this class and we will make them a reality! This guided open studio style class is for students who have taken both Beginning and Intermediate Jewelry or equivalent. A $25 material fee will be collected the first day of class for basic materials that will be provided (such as sawblades, sandpaper, and solder in addition to brass and copper sheet and wire.) Please bring any sterling silver that you intend to use.
COURSE CODE: IOSJ
Sec. 01: 4 Tuesdays, 6-9pm. Begins Aug. 18 | $225
STERLING SILVER HANDMADE CHAIN WORKSHOP
Laura Jaklitsch | Metalsmith, laurajaklitsch.com
In this Intermediate workshop over two days, students will learn how to form and solder links to make their own handmade chain in sterling silver. We’ll practice several different types of chain in copper, and then students will be able to make a chain bracelet with a handmade clasp or chain earrings in sterling silver. This class requires some experience with soldering such as the Beginning Jewelry class or workshops. All materials will be provided. A materials fee of $50 is due to the instructor on the first day of class.
COURSE CODE: JWSN
Sec. 01: 4 Thursdays, 6-9pm. Begins Aug. 20 | $225
OPEN STUDIO METALSMITHING AND JEWELRY
Laurie Savage | Metalsmith
If you are or have been a metalsmithing or a jewelry student, join us to work independently on projects of your own design with direction from the instructor. Intermediate-level experience is required. Please bring the materials you intend to use. If you have any questions, please email info@ccae.org before the first class and we will have the instructor reply to you directly.
COURSE CODE: OPMT
Sec. 01: Sunday, 10am-4pm. Jul. 12 | $105
Sec. 02: Sunday, 10am-4pm. Aug. 2 | $105
Sec. 03: Sunday, 10am-4pm. Aug. 9 | $105
Sec. 04: Sunday, 10am-4pm. Aug. 30 | $105
Sec. 05: Sunday, 10am-4pm. Sep. 13 | $105
WOODWORKING & CRAFTS
WOOD CARVING WITH SMALL TOOLS
Dan Paret | Woodworker
Through a series of demonstrations and discussion, you will be introduced to a variety of wood carving techniques and styles, all of which can be carved with a modest set of small wood carving tools. Each class will include demonstrations and an opportunity to begin carving and ask questions. We will approach this introduction with equal parts levity and seriousness, and before long you will be on your way. New and continuing students are encouraged to participate, and the mix enriches the experience. Please contact the instructor with any questions: danparet@gmail.com
COURSE CODE: HTDC
Sec. 01: 5 Tuesdays, 6-9pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $345
INTRODUCTION TO WOODWORKING: BUILD A BOX
Carl Spagnoli | Woodworker
Build the foundational shape for any construction: a box! Students will become familiar with typical woodworking tools, the basics of joinery, and various construction techniques. We will discuss different types of wood and what factors go into your choice of material. We will also discuss different types of joints, and both the structural and aesthetic reasons you may want to use one joint method over another. Students should plan on spending around $50 on materials.
COURSE CODE: WKBX
Sec. 01: 8 Wednesdays, 6-9pm. Begins Apr. 8 | $550
INTRODUCTION TO WOODWORKING: THE SHAKER TABLE
Carl Spagnoli | Woodworker
Develop knowledge, respect, and skill with hand tools and power tools through completing individual woodworking projects. In order to introduce various tools, woods, joinery, and sound construction techniques, we will create a Shaker-style table (or another modest project with instructor approval) and begin to understand the finer details of woodworking. Students will provide their own materials, which will be discussed in first class. CCAE provides tools but students will be encouraged to buy some hand tools of their own (e.g., chisels, handsaw, combination square) and practice the art of maintaining them. Prerequisite: Previous woodworking experience or classes such as WKBX or WKSS
COURSE CODE: WKST
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 2-5pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $550
Sec. 02: 8 Thursdays, 6-9pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $550
WOODWORKING OPEN SHOP
Carl Spagnoli | Woodworker
In this open shop, students have time and space to complete modest projects of their choosing under the guidance of an instructor. Refine your knowledge about tools, woods, joinery, and tool sharpening with both hand tools and a range of power tools. Students should plan on spending $50 to $150 on materials depending on the scope of their projects. It is recommended that students have taken an Introduction to Woodworking class at CCAE or have previous woodworking experience.
COURSE CODE: WKCA
Sec. 01: 8 Fridays, 6-9pm. Begins Jun. 26 | $550 No class Jul. 3
Join us for a beginner pottery class to learn how to make bowls on the pottery wheel. Finish by decorating with food-safe glazes. This is a beginner-focused class, materials, tools, and firings are included. We will be working in stoneware (cone 6) clay and food safe glazes. Each session is three hours: two hours of instruction followed by one hour studio practice time. This class is offered in partnership with Commonwealth Clayworks, an ADA-compliant facility.
COURSE CODE: PWMB
Sec. 01: 4 Thursdays, 10am-1pm. Begins Jul. 2 | $330
INTRODUCTION TO SCULPTURAL HAND CARVING
Isaac Gewirth | Artist, Woodworker, isaacgewirth.com
Learn the fundamentals of hand carving wood and create a sculptural project that explores form, color, and texture. Students will gain experience with tool use, sharpening, clamping, and finishing while working with kiln-dried basswood to create small sculptures, wall hangings, or toys. Designed for beginners, this course emphasizes creative exploration, safe technique, and developing a toolkit to continue carving beyond the class. A materials fee of $30 will be paid directly to the instructor on the first day of class.
COURSE CODE: WSHC
Sec. 01: 6 Mondays, 10am-1pm. Begins Jul. 13 | $415
No class Jul. 27 and Aug. 24
INTERMEDIATE WOODWORKING OPEN SHOP
Isaac Gewirth | Artist, Woodworker, isaacgewirth.com
In this intermediate-level open woodshop, instructor Isaac Gewirth will guide students through the design and construction of small, self-directed projects. This course is ideal for those with basic woodworking experience who are ready to develop their own design language and take on a project of their own design for the first time. To ensure projects can be completed within the course, work will be intentionally constrained in scale. The first session will include a review of shop equipment and the development of full-scale drawings. Students are encouraged to arrive with several ideas and sketches, and should expect to spend $20–70 on materials. Throughout the course, students will build skills in design, joinery, carving, surface treatment, and sharpening, while receiving guidance tailored to their individual projects. Emphasis will be placed on integrating hand tool work and visible signs of the human hand. With a lighthearted, collaborative atmosphere, this class offers space to experiment, share ideas, and make alongside others. Students must have prior experience with the safe operation of woodworking equipment.
COURSE CODE: WKIO
Sec. 01: 6 Mondays, Begins Jul. 13 & 1 Tuesday, Sep. 1, 2-5pm | $485 No class Jul. 27 and Aug. 24
MAKE IT AND HANG IT: WOODWORKING FOR YOUR WALLS
Isaac Gewirth | Artist, Woodworker, isaacgewirth.com
This dual-focus class combines basic woodworking with practical installation skills, guiding students through the process of making and hanging functional objects for the home. At the start of the course, students will collectively decide which projects to pursue. Options may include a wall cabinet, carved hooks, Shaker-style peg rail, broom hanger, frames, or simple shelving. Alongside making, we will focus on how to securely install work in drywall, including locating studs, using anchors, and patching holes. By the end of the course, students will have built confidence in the woodshop and basic home installation, leaving with finished objects and the skills to continue making and hanging work at home while adding function and personality to their spaces. A materials fee of $30 will be paid to the instructor on the first day of class.
COURSE CODE: WKMH
Sec. 01: 6 Mondays, 6-9pm. Begins Jul. 13 | $415 No class Jul. 27 and Aug. 24
MULTIMEDIA & PHOTOGRAPHY
STORYTELLING THROUGH VIDEO
Malachi Van Nice | Film Maker
In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of visual storytelling across various genres and mediums including narrative, experimental media, documentary, and home video. You will also learn the basic components that go into lighting, cinematography, and editing. Students can engage in this course at any level they desire, ranging from creating a short film from the ground up to improving home videos and footage created for social media.
COURSE CODE: SVID
Sec. 01: 9 Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $380
BEGINNERS GUIDE TO DRAWING IN PROCREATE
Maura McGonagle | Illustrator, doingartiguess.com
Join us for a beginner’s guide to the digital art program, Procreate. In this class we will go over the program tools and processes with the goal of understanding Procreate and its uses for beginners and professional artists alike.
COURSE CODE: PROC
Sec. 01: 6 Mondays, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $230
ADVANCED CYANOTYPE PRACTICES
Eve Sage | Photographer, evesage.myportfolio.com
CLICK WITH CONFIDENCE: DIGITAL PHOTO BASICS
Eve Sage | Photographer, evesage.myportfolio.com
Move off the “auto” setting and learn what your digital camera can do! Explore your camera’s features and menus and gain an overview of the basic elements of photography, including shutter speed, ISO, aperture, and more. After learning the basics, we’ll build on these skills by adding lighting, composition, focus, color, and how to capture various subjects, including photography in public. From discussions and practice in class to translating your skills into the world through assignments, you’ll walk away from this class feeling more confident in your camera and what it can do! Please bring your camera to each class (it must be a DSLR or Mirrorless Camera that has a manual mode that allows adjustments of both shutter speed and aperture settings).
COURSE CODE: CDPB
Sec. 01: 7 Thursdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $280
Explore the magic of cyanotypes in this hands-on, two-part workshop perfect for beginners and creatives of all kinds! One of the first photographic processes ever developed, cyanotypes (also known as blueprints or sunprints) allow you to create unique prints from natural and/or found objects. Using light-sensitive chemicals, we will use objects like leaves, flowers, lace, jewelry and more! In the first class you'll learn the basics of the historic sun-printing technique and create your own set of blue-and-white designs on paper and fabric. We'll discuss other ways to create your own prints at home and how various printing methods can change a finished design. In the second class, we'll take your prints further by introducing toning techniques that shift the cyanotype's signature blue with tea, coffee, turmeric, and more! You'll also have an opportunity to create larger wearable prints on items brought from home and provided fabric. This workshop is perfect for beginners, and anyone interested in alternative photographic processes. Leave with a set of unique prints and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of natural light and texture! A $25 materials fee per student is included in the tuition
Anastasia Sierra | Photographer, anastasiasierra.com
This one-day intensive workshop focuses on developing the skills required to make successful photographs of people. The students will learn about the use of light, composition, pose, and gesture and discuss different approaches to portrait-making depending on their interests and intentions. While the workshop is centered around building practical skills, we will also talk about the relationship between subject and photographer, how to find people to photograph, and how to use portraiture for storytelling. The students are expected to know the basic functions of their chosen camera. Both DSLR and phone camera photographers are welcome.
COURSE CODE: PPHO
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-4pm. Aug. 1 | $150
FIBER ARTS
BASIC SEWING: LEVEL 1
Nancy Ishihara | Sewing Instructor
Learn the basics of sewing by completing small projects. You will learn basic sewing skills, including machine maintenance and how to build your sewing kit, as well as how to cut, take simple measurements, and choose fabric. This class is intended for beginners. Access to a machine is necessary, please bring your own to class.
COURSE CODE: SEWN
Sec. 01: 8 Mondays, 6-8pm. Begins Jul. 6 | $350
Sec. 02: 8 Wednesdays, 10am-12pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $350
BASIC SEWING LEVEL 2: PLAYING WITH FASHION
Nancy Ishihara | Sewing Instructor
If you have already taken a sewing class or have experience with sewing and sewing machines, join us to consolidate your skills and tackle more advanced techniques and designs. Classes will be geared toward developing your sewing skill set, including zippers and other fasteners. We will also learn about elements of design and fashion, and how we can use our creativity in conjunction with commercial sewing patterns. This class is not recommended for absolute beginners. Access to a machine is necessary; please bring your own to class.
COURSE CODE: SEWF
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 6-8pm. Begins Jul. 9 | $350
STITCH A FATHER'S DAY APRON FOR SUMMER BBQS
Elodie Bordry | Sewing Instructor
Come and be ready to sew your first apron for Father's Day! Join us for this three hour workshop will enable you to create an apron, right on time for Barbecue season and July the 4th! The instructor will provide the fabric and the instructions, and will guide you through the project. Students must provide their own sewing machine. To take advantage of this workshop, you need to know how to use your sewing machine and have the basics of sewing.
COURSE CODE: SFDA
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-2pm. Jun. 20 | $110
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN GRILLING BASICS ON PAGE 3
SUMMER CHIC: CONSTRUCT AND DECORATE A STRAW HAT
Alison Hynd | Milliner
Create a stylish brimmed straw hat for summer! We’ll be using versatile sinamay straw and vintage wooden hat blocks. Day one focuses on traditional hat-blocking techniques, shaping the straw over molds, tugging, and pinning. On day two, personalize your design with hatbands and decorations. All provided hat blocks are vintage women’s styles, sized for women’s heads or perched on the top or side. Essential materials will be provided. A $65 materials fee per student is included in the tuition.
Come learn the basics of crochet, including how to chain, single-crochet, double-crochet, how to read a simple pattern, and more. By the end of the course, you will be well on your way to finishing your first project. Tips and tricks on picking yarn and reading patterns will be shared.
COURSE CODE: CRCT
Sec. 01: 6 Wednesdays, 6-8pm. Begins Jun. 24 | $270
INTERMEDIATE CROCHET: BEGIN YOUR FIRST PROJECT
Olivia Hochstadt | Artist / Curator
In this intermediate crochet class, we will venture to complete your first crochet project! This class is ideal for students who have completed Intro to Crochet or know the basics of crochet. Students are invited to come to class with a selected crochet pattern, and the instructor will guide students through the steps of making the pattern. We will learn about gauge, garment construction, and stitch patterns. Bring a pattern of your choosing, crochet hooks, stitch markers, and enough yarn to complete your project to the first class. If you have questions on patterns and yarn amounts, bring your inquiries to the first class, and we will walk through them together! Basic patterns to make a hat and tote bag will be offered.
COURSE CODE: ICBF
Sec. 01: 4 Fridays, 6-8pm. Begins Jul. 31 | $180
No class Aug. 21
UPCYCLED T-SHIRT CROCHET BAG
Olivia Hochstadt | Artist / Curator
Transform your old t-shirts into a ball of yarn and crochet a bag! These durable bags will be perfect for everyday and hardwearing use, including beach-going! This class is perfect for adventurous beginner crocheters. Basic knowledge of crochet stitches and increases is necessary. Bring your old t-shirts and scrap yarn you’d like to use. Crochet hooks will be provided.
COURSE CODE: UTCB
Sec. 01: Sunday, 12-2pm. Aug. 9 | $65
CROCHET SCRUNCHIES WORKSHOP
Olivia Hochstadt | Artist / Curator
Make fun and colorful crochet scrunchies in this two-hour workshop! We will take hair ties and basic crochet stitches to create scrunchies in your own style. Crochet hooks and yarn will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. Knowledge of basic crochet stitches is required.
COURSE CODE: CSWR
Sec. 01: Sunday, 12-2pm. Aug. 23 | $65
INTRODUCTION TO DROP SPINNING
Olivia Hochstadt | Artist / Curator
Learn to spin yarn in an ancient, portable way – with a drop spindle! We will learn how to take wool and spin it into yarn through a manual process. At the end of class, you will have a handspun mini skein of yarn to take home! Students will have a chance to blend fibers on a drum carder and try out a spinning wheel. Bring your own fiber and spindles to the first class.
COURSE CODE: DROP
Sec. 01: 4 Wednesdays, 6-8pm. Begins Aug. 12 | $180
INTRODUCTION TO PUNCH NEEDLE: COASTAL TEXTURES
Haley Wood | Fiber Artist
Capture the beauty of coastal flora, fauna, and fungi using punch needle embroidery, a meditative and versatile fiber art! In this class, you will learn the basics of punch needle embroidery, as well as the many abstract sculptural possibilities of the medium. This workshop will guide you through every step of the project, including finding inspiration in nature, preparing your materials, familiarizing yourself with the embroidery tool, and completing a work of textile art. You will become comfortable with creating a range of textures and using traditional punch needle techniques to make fibrous representations of seaweed, algae, lichen, tidal creatures, and more. No experience required! All materials for this workshop will be provided.
COURSE CODE: PNCT
Sec. 01: Saturday, 12-4pm. Begins Jun. 27 | $130
INTRO TO QUILTING
Nora Sears | Quilting Instructor
Learn the basics of quilting and develop the skills needed to create your own blanket. We will learn how to choose fabric, sew different quilt patterns, choose batting, and finish a small quilt in this class. Students must have access to a sewing machine to bring to class and must have the ability to sew in a straight line.
COURSE CODE: QUIL
Sec. 01: 6 Tuesdays, 6-8pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $265
QUILT A PRIDE FLAG
Nora Sears | Quilting Instructor
Learn to quilt a vibrant pride flag, perfect for the month of June and all year long! This workshop will lead you through the basic quilting techniques, including sewing the pieces together, layering the quilt with a back, quilting, and binding the edges. We will create a quilt hanging that is approximately 25 x 35 inches and will learn skills that can be used in future quilted projects. Students must have access to a sewing machine to bring to class and must have the ability to sew in a straight line. No prior quilting experience is required. All materials for this workshop will be provided.
COURSE CODE: QPFL
Sec. 01: Sunday, 12-3pm. Jun. 28 | $105
STITCHED INDIGO SHIBORI WORKSHOP
Michelle Blanchette | Fiber Artist
Join us to learn about the traditional Japanese art form of stitched indigo shibori. We’ll use natural dye from the indigo plant and explore different stitch sizes and rhythms working in the single fabric layer, as well as pleats and folds to create unique patterns. You’ll learn traditional techniques including ori-nui, mokume, maki-age, karamatsu, and maki-nui. We’ll use cotton tea towels, and students can bring other light-colored garments made of natural fibers. You will leave this workshop with not only your creations but a strong technique base and a passion for continuing to create with this traditional Japanese art form. All materials for this workshop will be provided.
COURSE CODE: SHIW
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-2pm. Begins Aug. 15 | $130
SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES: BOTANICAL DYE & TEXTILE ARTS WORKSHOP
Katerina Annunziato | Fiber Artist
This two-session, hands-on workshop explores the art of natural dyeing using botanical dyestuffs from plants. Students will learn to extract color from a variety of plant materials and experiment with simple modifiers to create a range of colors from each dyestuff. Beginners and experienced dyers are welcome. Students are required to bring natural fibers like yarns, deadstock fabric, or fabric remnants from home to use in their projects.
COURSE CODE: BTAW
Sec. 01: 2 Saturdays, 10am-1pm. Aug. 22 & 29 | $200
STITCHES AND SUNSHINE EMBROIDERY PICNIC
Kendall Kulper | Embroidery Artist and Author
Soak up the sunshine and relax with some floral embroidery in this one-day workshop! Every student will get their own embroidery kit with everything needed to stitch a simple but beautiful embroidered floral design. All you have to bring is your lunch! No previous embroidery knowledge needed. All materials for this workshop will be provided.
COURSE CODE: SSEP
Sec. 01: Sunday, 12-4pm. Jun. 21 | $130
Meeting point: Courtyard of 56 Brattle Street. In case of inclement weather, this picnic will be postponed to Sunday, June 28.
CREATE AND STITCH YOUR OWN EMBROIDERY PATTERN
Kendall Kulper | Embroidery Artist and Author
Learn how to turn photos or drawings into embroidery patterns, plus a simple stitch to bring them to life! Perfect for total beginners or embroidery experts looking to learn a new skill, this one-day workshop will go over the basics of embroidery pattern making based on photos or drawings. The instructor will work with students ahead of time to select the right image, help each student create their own pattern, and finally teach a simple line stitch to transform each pattern into embroidered art.
COURSE CODE: SYEP
Sec. 01: Saturday, 12-4pm. Aug. 1 | $120
CRAFTIVISM! PROTEST EMBROIDERY
Kendall Kulper | Embroidery Artist and Author
Join the movement of crafting activists, learn a therapeutic new skill, and create your own embroidered protest art in this one-day workshop! Perfect for all levels of embroiderers, from total beginners to embroidery experts, this workshop will cover the basics of craftivism, how to create your own protest design, and finish off with some simple stitches so you can share your message with the world. All materials for this workshop will be provided.
COURSE CODE: CPEM
Sec. 01: Saturday, 12-4pm. Aug. 29 | $120
VISIBLE MENDING WORKSHOP: JEANS
Jooe Kim | Fiber Arts Instructor
Are your favorite jeans in need of some TLC? In this class, you’ll learn the delightful art of visible mending. As you repair threadbare and torn areas, you’ll be introducing your own creative designs using sashiko thread and homemade patches. This is a great way to embrace slow fashion and sustainability. Bring a pair of jeans in need of repair (cotton preferred). No prior sewing experience needed. All materials for this workshop will be provided.
COURSE CODE: VMWJ
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-12:30pm. Jul. 11 | $100
ASSISTED KNITTING ON THE PATIO
Laura Broach | Knitting Instructor
Join us for an open knitting studio on the patio at CCAE! Enjoy company and conversation on summer evenings as we work on our own various projects or get support and encouragement to tackle “problem projects”! (Alternate indoor location available in case of rain.)
COURSE CODE: AKIP
Sec. 01: 3 Mondays, 6-8pm. Begins Jun. 15 | $130
BEGINNING KNITTING: CRASH COURSE
Laura Broach | Knitting Instructor
Come learn the basic building blocks of knitting in this three-week introductory course. We’ll provide the materials for you to learn how to knit and purl and to get started knitting your own small project!
COURSE CODE: BKCC
Sec. 01: 3 Tuesdays, 6-8pm. Begins Jul. 28 | $145
INTARSIA WORKSHOP
Jooe Kim | Knitting Instructor
Have you seen a sweater with a word or picture in the center and wondered how it was knit? Intarsia! Intarsia is a colorwork technique which enables you to place isolated areas of color in your knitting without carrying floats. In this workshop, students will practice knitting intarsia, learn tips for how to set up for an intarsia project, manage multiple small balls of yarn, and leave feeling confident to use it in future patterns. Yarn will be provided. This class is recommended for advanced beginner knitters.
COURSE CODE: INWR
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-8pm. Jun. 17 | $65
EEK! STEEKING WORKSHOP
Jooe Kim | Knitting Instructor
Take a pair of scissors and cut through your knitting?! Yes! That’s called steeking and it’s an advanced knitting technique which enables you to knit a flat object in the round, e.g. knitting a cardigan in the round and then cutting the center open. In this workshop, you will be introduced to steeking and have an opportunity to practice it. You will learn how to select yarn and understand which types of projects are ideal for steeking. Many knitters are reluctant to use this technique because it seems scary, but it doesn’t need to be! Yarn will be provided. This class is recommended for intermediate knitters.
COURSE CODE: ESWR
Sec. 01: Thursday, 6-8pm. Jun. 25 | $65
FELT NEEDLE BOOK WITH AN ENGLISH PAPER PIECED COVER
Darci Hanna | Fiber Arts Instructor
English Paper Piecing (EPP) is a hand-sewing technique developed in England in the early 1700s that can be used to make beautiful geometric patches, pouches, bags, and even full-size quilts. Portable and beginner friendly, it’s a wonderful project that can be easily completed in small increments. The hand-stitching process is simple, meditative, and uses up small scraps that would otherwise be wasted. In this workshop you’ll use basic techniques to create your own one-of-a-kind small needle book with a custom cover for storing and organizing your sewing needles and pins. All materials for this workshop will be provided.
COURSE CODE: NBEP
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-2pm. Aug. 22 | $110
ENGLISH PAPER PIECING TOTE BAGS
Darci Hanna | Fiber Arts Instructor
English Paper Piecing (EPP) is a hand-sewing technique developed in England in the early 1700s that can be used to make beautiful geometric patches, pouches, bags, and even full-size quilts. Portable and beginner friendly, it’s a wonderful project that can be easily completed in small increments. The hand-stitching process is simple, meditative, and uses up small scraps that would otherwise be wasted. In this workshop you’ll use basic techniques to create your own one-of-a-kind EPP bag. Students new to hand-stitching will likely need to do some sewing at home in the week between sessions to complete the project. All materials for this workshop will be provided.
COURSE CODE: EPPT
Sec. 01: 2 Sundays, 10am-2pm. Jul. 19 & 26 | $210
INTRO TO CROSS-STITCH: COASTAL DESIGNS
Florian Fial | Fiber Arts Instructor
Learn how to cross-stitch while creating your own coastal-themed project! Students will have the opportunity to choose from five beachy designs with a variety of complexity levels, pick out their materials, and practice the basics of cross-stitching while completing their design. All materials for this workshop will be provided.
COURSE CODE: ICSC
Sec. 01: Sunday, 12-2pm. Aug. 2 | $110
Performing Arts
DANCE
BARRE FITNESS
Monique St. Paul | Barre Fitness Instructor
Barre fitness is a low-impact, high-intensity class that uses small, targeted movements for a full-body workout. A cardio warmup gets the heart rate and energy up! High repetitions help build core strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance in the legs, glutes, and arms. Barre is suitable for all fitness abilities. ballet or dance experience needed. The class is performed in socks. Grip socks are preferred; however, cotton socks are acceptable. Please bring your yoga mat to class.
COURSE CODE: BARE
Sec. 01: 5 Saturdays, 9-9:50am. Begins Jun. 20 | $85 No class Jul. 4
AFRO CUBAN DANCE
Leonardo Navarro Penate | Folk Dancer
In this Afro-Cuban dance workshop, we will learn individual and partner steps for the rhythms that constitute the rumba genre, as well as the various orishas that comprise the Yoruba pantheon. In addition, we will explore small choreographies and examine the history of each dance.
COURSE CODE: AFRO
Sec. 01: 8 Mondays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $240
SALSA-CASINO
Leonardo Navarro Penate | Folk Dancer
Salsa-Casino is a Cuban salsa style danced in pairs within a large circle. It often forms part of a larger group dance called Rueda de Casino, in which dancers perform synchronized, call-and-response moves and partner swaps. We will learn the basic steps and all possible variations of individual, partner, and group movements, including the rueda de casino as performed in Cuba.
COURSE CODE: CUBE
Sec. 01: 8 Mondays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Jun. 22 | $240
“I felt I really grew as an actor. One of the best classes I’ve taken at CCAE.”
—JOSEPH G., DECODING SHAKESPEARE
DANCES FOR A ROMANTIC OCCASION
Jim Spellman | Dancer
Decode the basic footwork of American-style waltz, foxtrot, tango, rumba, and merengue. Then, we will learn the joy of leading and following, dancing in partnership. The class will be easygoing and fun, with a complete review each week. Music will include such songs as “Moon River,” “Night and Day,” “Fernando’s Hideaway,” and “Perfida.”
COURSE CODE: DABA
Sec. 01: 2 Fridays, 6-8pm. Jun. 12 & 26 | $100
BALLROOM DANCING BASICS
Holly Stone | Dancer
This beginner ballroom dance course guides students through the basics of multiple ballroom dance styles. We will work on fundamentals in styles like the waltz, foxtrot, tango, rumba, and swing. Students will learn about timing, musicality, and the concepts of lead and following. This class is open to all, and we will end up dancing with everyone, so there is no need to worry about bringing a partner. Prior ballroom experience is not required!
COURSE CODE: STYL
Sec. 01: 5 Fridays, 6-8pm. Begins Jul. 10 | $200
BURLESQUE: THE BEAUTEASE WAY
Professional Burlesque Society PBS | Dance Instructor
Burlesque is also exciting, empowering, and a great exercise. Suitable for performers of all shapes, sizes, and experience levels, this workshop for women only introduces the basic building blocks of vintage-style burlesque. You will learn dance moves and techniques for handling classic clothing elements such as gloves, boas, and stockings. Leave with everything you need to put on your burlesque performance, whether on stage or in private.
COURSE CODE: BURL
Sec. 01: 4 Sundays, 3:30-5pm. Begins Aug. 2 | $120
MUSIC
STRINGS
FEAST OF AFFECTIONS: BAROQUE STRING
ORCHESTRA EXPERIENCE
Farkhad Abdikadirov | Performer & Educator
Experience the richness of Baroque music this spring in our welcoming, hands-on class designed for string players of all backgrounds. Dive into the art of expressive interpretation, discover historic musical manuscripts, and immerse yourself in vibrant French, British, German, and Italian repertoire-while building meaningful connections within a community ensemble. No auditions are required, ensuring a supportive environment for all technical levels. Class is open to violin, viola, cello, and double bass.
COURSE CODE: BOWS
Sec. 01: 10 Saturdays, 11am-12:30pm. Begins Jun. 20 | $300 No class Jul. 4
INTENSE BEGINNING GUITAR
Chris Brenne | Musician & Composer, B.A. Berklee College of Music
This is a guitar class for beginners on steroids! We’ll use innovative practices to deliver faster, better results without taxing your valuable time. Anyone can buy a chord book, look up songs on YouTube, or download a tab, but this class will show you how to use these resources. We’ll focus on how to put a chord progression together with rhythm and expression, and how to play songs using strumming and some fingerpicking. You’ll leave the first lesson after having started playing your first song! Students must bring their guitar or rent one.
COURSE CODE: GTB1
Sec. 01: 5 Tuesdays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Jun. 23 | $150
EASY SONGS FOR GUITAR
Chris Brenne | Musician & Composer, B.A. Berklee College of Music
This is a continuing guitar class on steroids! We’ll use practice methods to achieve faster, better results without taxing your valuable time. At the same time, exploring the transitions between chords and tricks will help you navigate a song. We’ll cover all the basic chords, strums, and even some fingerpicking and melody/leads! We will also discuss and practice some techniques that musicians use to bring a song to life! The digital PDF file of the book is included in the fee.
COURSE CODE: GTB2
Sec. 01: 5 Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 23 | $150
UKULELE QUICK START
Amy Kucharik | amykucharik.com
Learn everything you need to know to get started playing the portable, affordable, lovable ukulele! For absolute beginners and those playing for less than one year. We’ll cover the basic chords and fundamentals so you can start playing songs by the first week.
COURSE CODE: QUIK
Sec. 01: 6 Thursdays, 6-7:15pm. Begins Jul. 2 | $150
SUPER SUMMER STRUMMING : CONTINUING UKULELE
Amy Kucharik | amykucharik.com
You can play some chords and know basic strumming, but how do you know what strums to use for different songs? Can you recognize a song just from the strumming? Take your ukulele playing to the next level with this strumming symposium. We’ll break down the most fundamental and useful strums and then explore how to turn those into musical grooves. Play songs that use universal patterns as well as unique and iconic strums to make you a strumming superstar.
COURSE CODE: SSSS
Sec. 01: 6 Thursdays, 7:30-8:45pm. Begins Jul. 2 | $150
PIANO
BEGINNING PIANO LEVEL 1
Marie Kurfirtova | Pianist
Have you always wanted to play the piano? Have you taken a few lessons in the past but can’t remember as much as you’d like? It’s never too late to learn! This group class will cover all the basics, including how to read music, and you will learn simple tunes in various styles. The Faber Adult Piano Adventures All-in-One Course Book 1 is required.
COURSE CODE: PNO1
Sec. 01: 9 Tuesdays, 6-7pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $285
Sec. 02: 9 Thursdays, 7:15-8:15pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $285
PIANO BEGINNER LEVEL 2
Marie Kurfirtova | Pianist
This course is designed for continuing Level 1 students. We will continue building the basics, including how to read music. You will learn simple tunes in various styles. We will continue to complete the Faber Adult Piano Adventures All-in-One Course Book 1. This course is also suitable for any beginner with some basic experience.
COURSE CODE: PNO2
Sec. 01: 9 Tuesdays, 7:15-8:15pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $285
PIANO BEGINNER LEVEL 3
Marie Kurfirtova | Pianist
This course is specially designed for continuing Level 2 students. We will continue to develop basic piano technique, learn new pieces in various styles, and study fundamental principles of music theory. We will use the Faber Adult Piano Adventures All-in-One Course Book 2 This course is also suitable for individuals with prior experience who feel comfortable playing the piano with both hands.
COURSE CODE: PNO3
Sec. 01: 9 Thursdays, 6-7pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $285
UKULELE JAM
Amy Kucharik | amykucharik.com
It’s like a luau in Harvard Square! Join in the outdoor jam with fellow CCAE students and members of the ukulele community as uke instructor Amy Kucharik and a passel of past class masters crank out the hits from 1920 to 2023. All skill levels are welcome. Bring a uke or borrow one of ours.
COURSE CODE: UKEJ
Sec. 01: Thursday, 5:30-7:30pm. Sep. 10 | Free
INTRODUCTION TO GENDER AFFIRMING VOICE
Quinn Gutman | Singer
If you’re not satisfied with your voice, you can change it! In this class, we will explore the various aspects of the human voice and learn how to manipulate them to help transform your voice into one that better expresses your unique identity. By the end of class, you’ll have plenty of exercises and resources to help you find a target voice and practice maintaining that target voice.
COURSE CODE: AFFF
Sec. 01: Thursday, 6-8pm. Jun. 18 | $50
Sec. 02: Thursday, 6-8pm. Jul. 23 | $50
APPLIED VOCAL TECHNIQUE IN SONG
Quinn Gutman | Singer
Have you never sung before? This class is for you. Have you been singing for years? This class is for you. We will learn and review the basics of breathing and anatomy, exploring range, resonance, styles, and how to learn a song. We will do a series of exercises together and sometimes individually. Then, students will be invited to perform songs for the class and receive feedback on their performance.
COURSE CODE: ROAR
Sec. 01: 3 Wednesdays, 7-8:30pm. Begins Jul. 1 | $90
Sec. 02: 3 Wednesdays, 7-8:30pm. Begins Aug. 5 | $90
VOICE WORKSHOP
Jane Eichkern & Maria Kurfirtova | Co-Instructors, Singer & Pianist
Learn to sing in a supportive environment and discover the joy of making music. This class is open to beginners and students of all levels. Discover proper posture, breathing, and relaxation techniques to boost your confidence and performance. Practice singing in a small group and receive individual feedback on your voice.
COURSE CODE: TUNE
Sec. 01: 6 Fridays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 26 | $225
Sec. 02: 6 Fridays, 7:45-9:15pm. Begins Jun. 26 | $225
No class Jul. 3
THEATER
ADVANCED ACTING METHODS
Dewayne Nelson | Actor on Stage, Film & TV
This course is designed for experienced students ready to enhance their stage acting skills. Through complex scene study and character analysis, students will experience what it is like to shape a theatrical performance for a viewing audience. The class references the Meisner Uta Hagen acting methods as a guidepost. Students will work on different scenes leading up to a performance. One memorized monologue is required for the first day of the course.
COURSE CODE: MAST
Sec. 01: 10 Saturdays, 12-2pm. Begins Jun. 20 | $440
No class Jul. 4
STORYTELLING WORKSHOP & SHOWCASE
Andrea Aptecker | Actor, Public Speaking Expert
What’s your story? Get introduced to the art of story structure and receive expert tips on incorporating humor, building drama, and connecting with your audience. Each participant will have several opportunities to present true stories, lasting five to ten minutes, much like those from “The Moth.” Participants are also welcome to workshop short fiction pieces, memoirs, plays, and screenplays, and indepth comments and discussions follow all performances. Everyone is welcome, from beginners to practiced storytellers. The final class provides students with the opportunity to showcase their stories to an invited audience of friends and family.
COURSE CODE: TELL
Sec. 01: 10 Wednesdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $330
ACT I: BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE STAGE PERFORMANCE
Brittany Forsmo | Director, Choreographer, and Actor
This weekly class invites students to engage in theory-based exercises to get us out of our heads and into our bodies. This program will allow students to gain: a deeper connection through text analysis, reliable tools for physical performance, and the technical knowledge to master the stage. Learn how to be an evocative solo performer, a reliable ensemble member, and become the actor you’re meant to be.
COURSE CODE: ACTS
Sec. 01: 8 Thursdays, 7:45-9pm. Begins Jun. 18 | $200
Business, Finance & Technology
INTRODUCTION TO PYTHON: WEEKLONG INTENSIVE
Chris Bentley | Software Engineer and Educator
In this condensed version of our Python programming class, you will learn fundamental computer science concepts such as data types, functions, and object-oriented design. Computer science is a challenging, fast-paced, and exciting field and getting a strong command of its fundamentals will require at home programming practice and self-directed reading. By the end of the course, students will have rounded out their understanding of computer science fundamentals and will be prepared to start work on at-home hobby projects.
COURSE CODE: PYWS
Sec. 01: Monday-Friday, 7:30-9pm. Jul. 20-24 | $250
WALL STREET BOOTCAMP
Michael Stern | Registered Investment Advisor
This is a fast-paced course covering the fundamentals of investing. Appropriate for beginning as well as experienced investors, students will learn how to allocate assets, research investments online, pick appropriate securities, and monitor performance. We'll cover Mutual Funds and ETFs and distinguish their advantages and disadvantages. The course will discuss how to successfully build diversified equity and fixed-income portfolios. We'll consider the pitfalls of Target Retirement Funds as well as the risks inherent in Bond ETFs and Bond Mutual Funds. Lastly, students develop skills as an amateur "equity analyst" and learn how to assess the performance of a professional mutual fund manager or advisor.
COURSE CODE: NAVS
Sec. 01: 3 Wednesdays, 7:30-9pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $75
“Well worth the cost. It has already paid off!”
CHRISTOPHER B., WALL STREET BOOTCAMP
BASICS OF PROGRAMMING
Kelly Plakyda | Programmer, IBM
In this class you will learn the basics of computer programming through Java; a language that is the foundation of many modern applications. The concepts we will cover: variables, conditionals, loops, functions, arrays, and objects, will provide you with the building blocks for building your skills further, or simply unveiling the black box behind the technology you interact with everyday. This course is intended for individuals who have no prior experience.
COURSE CODE: JAVA
Sec. 01: 7 Tuesdays, 7:15-8:45pm. Begins Jul. 7 | $170
INTERVIEWS AND STORIES
Steven Bloomberg | Communications Skills Developer
Build your confidence for interviews by learning to clearly and compellingly communicate your experience. Practice telling meaningful stories about your work that highlight your contributions to companies, teams, clients, and customers, and showcase your skills and knowledge effectively. You will practice alongside others, hear a range of approaches, and learn through shared feedback and discussion. In addition to storytelling, we’ll work on strong responses to common interview questions and prompts like “Tell me about yourself,” and more. Start practicing now so you’ll be ready to stand out in your next interview.
COURSE CODE: INST
Sec. 01: 5 Tuesdays, 7-9pm. Begins Jul. 28 | $220
CRACK THE COLLEGE COST CODE: WHAT EVERY PARENT NEEDS TO KNOW
Catherine Valega | CFP®, EA, CAIA
Most parents are shocked by how different a college’s sticker price is from what families actually pay. In this class, you’ll learn four practical keys to cutting college costs-how to lead the process, find generous schools, understand your true price, and protect your retirement while paying for college. You’ll leave with a simple framework to evaluate value, compare options, and make confident decisions without jeopardizing long-term financial goals.
COURSE CODE: COST
Sec. 01: Tuesday, 6:15-7:45pm. Aug. 18 | $50
TRADING EQUITY OPTIONS
Craig Forman | MBA, Professional Trader, Personal Portfolio
Trading in equity options has exploded in recent years due to low commissions, excellent free trading tools, and the emergence of weekly options. We'll explain how options work, how to trade them, and how to use them to control risk and enhance returns. You will learn strategies for naked options, option spreads, and stock/option combinations. We will also explore risk management, volatility, and adjustments. For beginning and seasoned investors who want to add options to their trading toolset.
COURSE CODE: TRWO
Sec. 01: 4 Mondays, 2-4pm. Begins Jul. 20 | $150
INTRODUCTION TO WORDPRESS
Ben Vivante | Web Developer, vivante.us
WordPress is one of the most user-friendly blogging and content management systems available. You can build almost anything from a personal or business website to everything in between. Join us for a quick overview of this powerful software. You will learn the ins-and-outs of WordPress so you can begin building your site today! Basic computer skills and Internet literacy are required.
COURSE CODE: WRDP
Sec. 01: 4 Wednesdays, 7-9pm. Begins Jul. 22 | $175
CYBERSECURITY FOR EVERYONE
Ben Vivante | Web Developer, vivante.us
Keeping safe in a digital world. Topics covered include securing your email, protecting against phishing, and adjusting social media settings. Discover how hackers exploit computers and how to defend against them. We’ll also discuss data backup strategies including the Cloud, antivirus solutions, smartphone security, and the risks of using wireless networks. Leave with practical tips to navigate the cyber world safely.
COURSE CODE: CYSA
Sec. 01: Wednesdays, 7-9pm. Jul. 15 | $55
INTRODUCTION TO SKETCHUP
Steven Santosuosso | Interior Designer
SketchUp is a free 3D digital modeling program used by architects, interior designers, product designers, and sculptural artists. 3D rendering can be used for interior design, product design, architecture, engineering, and even 3D printing. We will learn fundamental concepts and techniques including modeling, inferencing, and styling, to create 3D models from real life objects and schematic drawings.
COURSE CODE: SKUP
Sec. 01: 2 Mondays, 6-8pm. Aug. 3 & 10 | $100
HOW TO MAKE AN ESTATE PLAN
Stephanie Mandell | Attorney
We all know that everyone should have a will, and yet many of us put this off. This class will motivate you to organize your assets and create an estate plan, including documents that can assist in case of incapacity. You will receive an introduction to the common terms and options, including how to specify personal representatives (formerly called “executors”) and guardians in a will and the differences between wills and trusts. You will also get tips for estate planning that go beyond the legalese found in estate documents.
COURSE CODE: ESTP
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 6-8pm. Jul. 22 | $55
FINANCIAL PLANNING DURING RETIREMENT
Jimmy Becker | MBA, Yale School of Management
This class is for anyone already retired or planning to do so in the next few years. You will learn about investment strategy and determining how much risk to take, which assets to draw down first, the importance of minimizing fees, Social Security claiming strategies, the role of annuities, a safe level of spending, reverse mortgages, Medicare surcharges, and whether long-term care insurance makes sense.
COURSE CODE: FPRE
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-12pm. Aug. 1 | $55
EVALUATING AND COMPENSATING YOUR FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Jimmy Becker | MBA, Yale School of Management
This class is for anyone who has a financial advisor or is considering hiring one.You will learn a specific approach to select, evaluate, and compensate a financial advisor; this includes how to determine their suitability, competency, performance, and fiduciary commitment. You will also learn the various models by which financial advisors are compensated and which is the most suitable, least conflicted, and least costly.
COURSE CODE: ECFA
Sec. 01: Saturday, 12:30-1:30pm. Aug. 1 | $55
Life & Wellness
“The instructor was outstanding! John Bach was very supportive and made you feel you could succeed. I totally enjoyed the class and learned a great deal.”
—BEVERLY M., INTRODUCTION TO CARD MAGIC
MIND & BODY
MINDFUL FLOW YOGA FOR ALL LEVELS
Eric Bornstein | Kripalu-Certified Yoga Instructor, M.L.A., Harvard
This posture sequencing guide takes you through poses (asanas) in a mindful flow, designed to source all movement from our deep strength and discover its beauty. We will practice strategies to lengthen stubborn hamstrings and hips, eliminate pain and compression in the lower back and neck, and create opening and flexibility in the upper back and shoulders. Careful attention is given to maintaining proper posture and breathing (pranayama) during transitions and periods of stillness. Please bring your yoga mat.
COURSE CODE: BYOG
Sec. 01: 9 Wednesdays, 5:15-6:30pm. Begins Jun. 17 | $230 No class Jul. 1 & 22
MINDFUL & RELAXED: GENTLE PRACTICES FOR LONGEVITY AND AGING
Shiou Ai Huang & Aung Moe | Yoga & Holistic Health: Mindfulness, Exercise and Meditation Instructors
A blended class offering gentle practices that support longevity, balance, and presence. We weave gentle Yoga, Integral Tai Chi, mindful movements, and meditation to help seniors cultivate ease and stability. Each session nurtures calm, balance, and embodied awareness for everyday living, inviting participants to move, breathe, and live with meaning in the second half of life.
COURSE CODE: GENT
Sec. 01: 5 Thursdays, 5:30-7pm. Begins Aug. 6 | $130
SEATED STRETCH & MOBILITY: A GENTLE FULL-BODY RESET
Jacob Lavoie | Dancer
Ease stiffness, increase mobility, and feel better in your body with this gentle seated stretching class for all abilities. Drawing on techniques developed through years of dance training and working as a stretch and relaxation coach, this class brings a dancer’s thoughtful approach to stretching, focusing on alignment, fluid movement, and full-body awareness. The instructor guides students through a relaxed chair-based series that stretches the body from head to toe. Ideal for anyone who sits for long periods, experiences aches and tightness, or wants a low-impact way to improve flexibility. This class is open to all levels, no prior experience necessary, and is especially welcoming for those with balance concerns.
COURSE CODE: EASE
Sec. 01: 5 Wednesdays, 10-11am. Begins Jun. 24 | $100
INTEGRAL TAI CHI & MINDFULNESS MEDITATION
Aung Moe | Holistic Health: Mindfulness, Exercise and Meditation
A grounded practice blending Vipassana-based mindfulness, Integral Tai Chi movement, and Buddhist philosophy to support clarity and meaningful living. Open to newcomers and returning participants who have practiced with Aung. Each session includes movement, stretching, relaxation, and mindfulness meditation to nourish both body and mind.
COURSE CODE: ITCM
Sec. 01: 6 Fridays, 5:30-7pm. Begins Jul. 31 | $150
WISE BODY, WISE MIND: A DAY TO RECONNECT, REST & RESTORE
Suzanne Kratzig | Coach & Founder of Turtle Fire Coaching and Training
Jennifer Pearce | Founder Eat The Sun Kitchen
When the noise and busyness of daily life get loud, it’s easy to lose sight of the things that ground and restore us. This day is designed to help you reconnect to yourself. You’ll move through a hands-on cooking workshop, a shared meal, an interactive session connecting with your inner wisdom, yoga, and meditation, and you will learn how to build a collection of mindfulness techniques. At the end of the day, you will be led through reflection and a guided integration. You don’t need any prior experience; come as you are. The cost of tuition includes all food materials and fees.
COURSE CODE: WBWM
Sec. 01: Saturday, 10am-5pm. Jul. 25 | $225
YOGA AND THE CARE OF YOUR TRUE SELF
Lucie Kasova | Yoga Instructor
Let go of your to-do list and integrate self-care into your life to cultivate the energy needed to live fully. Refresh your practice, build confidence, and discover powerful tools for balance and deep connection with your true self. This three-week course explores how simple, non-competitive yoga practices can relieve chronic tension and flush stress from the system, leaving your body and nervous system more resilient to life’s challenges. Each session includes movement, breathwork, and meditation, followed by a Yoga Nidra practice.
Originally an ancient Chinese martial art, tai chi is practiced today primarily as an exercise that cultivates physical and mental harmony through movement. It’s slow, fluid, form-based on the Chinese principle of yin and yang, and its emphasis on relaxed, effortless movement makes it ideal for people of all ages. You will learn the first section of the traditional Yang style of long-form Tai Chi. Wear loose, comfortable clothes and soft, flat shoes.
COURSE CODE: TACH
Sec. 01: 8 Tuesdays, 6:15-7:15pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $135
MINDFUL FLOW YOGA FOR BEGINNERS
Eric Bornstein | Kripalu-Certified Yoga Instructor, M.L.A., Harvard
This posture sequencing guide takes you through poses (asanas) in a mindful flow, designed to draw all our movement from our deep strength and discover the beauty in it. We will practice strategies to lengthen stubborn hamstrings and hips, eliminate pain and compression in your lower back and neck, and create opening and flexibility in your upper back and shoulders. Careful attention is given to maintaining proper posture and breathing (pranayama) during transitions and in stillness. Please bring your yoga mat.
COURSE CODE: YOGA
Sec. 01: 9 Tuesdays, 4-5pm. Begins Jun. 16 | $150 No class Jun. 30 & Jul. 21
LIFESTYLE & RECREATION
OUTDOOR TENNIS WORKSHOP
Victor Gonzalez | USPTR Certified Instructor
Up your game! Each session of these tennis workshops for new and continuing students will focus on the basic tennis strokes: forehand, backhand, volley, and overhead/serve. Through drills, exercises, and actual games, we will sharpen your skills, knowledge of rules, and strategies for a comprehensive tennis experience. Bring a racquet, a can of balls, tennis shoes, and comfortable sportswear. Class meets outdoors in the western suburbs. Directions to the T-accessible courts will be emailed to registered students. Please reserve the following weeks for rain dates.
COURSE CODE: OUTT
Sec. 01: 4 Sundays, 2-3:30pm. Begins Jun. 21 | $110 No class Jul. 5
Sec. 02: 4 Sundays, 3:30-5pm. Begins Jun. 21 | $110 No class Jul. 5
Sec. 01: 4 Sundays, 2-3:30pm. Begins Jul. 26 | $110
Sec. 02: 4 Sundays, 3:30-5pm. Begins Jul. 26 | $110
MUSHROOM WALK: FUNGI IN THE WILD
Lawrence Millman | Author and Mycologist
Join us for a mushroom walk in Concord or Lincoln. However dry or unpromising the weather, our tour leader guarantees that we’ll find a minimum of 30 different species. You’ll learn to identify mushrooms both with and without a guidebook, and you’ll also unlearn everything you were ever told about how to distinguish a poisonous from a non-poisonous species. The focus of this walk is scientific, not culinary. The tuition includes the presentation and the walk. The presentation is mandatory. The instructor will tell you the location during the Friday presentation.
COURSE CODE: FUNW
Sec. 01: Friday & Saturday. Jun. 26 & 27 | $90
Required Evening Presentation at CCAE: Friday, 6-8pm. Jun. 26
Mushroom Walk: Saturday, 2-4pm. Jun. 27
HIGH FLYING CIRCUS
Paul Jackson | Aerial Instructor, Owner Green Dragon Circus
Discover the artistry, thrill, and challenge of circus arts. In this six-week course curious newcomers to seasoned athletes will all be able to find accomplishments in learning the fundamentals of aerial trapeze, lyra, and silks. Through this class you will learn how to safely mount and dismount the different apparatuses, inversions, fundamental tricks in the air, and the ability to climb to new heights! Circus arts are a way for everyone to gain strength, coordination, and confidence! This course meets at Green Dragon Circus: 100 Parker St, Watertown, MA 02472.
COURSE CODE: CIRC
Sec. 01: 6 Thursdays, 6-7:15pm. Begins Jul. 2 | $250
HOW TO REMEMBER: SONGS, STORIES, SPEECHES AND SIMILAR SUBJECTS
Neil Kutzen | Memory Trainer
Bring some words you want to remember (preferrable) or use something provided in the class. Use the most powerful and applicable mnemonic: pictures instead of words. Learn how to remember more easily and lastingly than you ever imagined possible. Neil Kutzen has been the most prominent and successful memory trainer in New England for more than a decade.
COURSE CODE: HTRS
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 5:30-7:30pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $50
NEVER FORGET A NAME
Neil Kutzen | Memory Trainer
Save yourself from embarrassing blunders and become more adept socially and in business by using powerful mnemonic tools.. Learn how to remember names more easily and lastingly than you ever imagined possible. Neil Kutzen has been the most prominent and successful memory trainer in New England for more than a decade.
COURSE CODE: NAME
Sec. 01: Wednesday, 7:45-9:45pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $50
PUBLIC SPEAKING WORKSHOP
Adam Tomas | PhD, Associate VP of Athens Debate
Whether you're delivering a presentation at work, school, or your best friend's wedding, or simply want to be confident when presenting ideas, the best way to get comfortable with public speaking is to practice. In this workshop class, you'll have the opportunity to present both impromptu and prepared speeches, followed by in-depth comments and discussion. We will look at body language, speech structure, and applying the “three appeals” of persuasion (ethos, logos, and pathos) to connect with your audience. Additionally, we will review some basic techniques of argumentation and debate, as they relate to becoming a confident and engaging speaker. Most importantly, we'll have fun in a supportive and encouraging environment. All are welcome.
COURSE CODE: PSWS
Sec. 01: 6 Wednesdays, 6-7:30pm. Begins Jul. 8 | $175
INTRODUCTION TO CARD MAGIC
John Bach | Magician
Ever wanted to amaze family and friends by performing incredible magic tricks anytime, anywhere, with just an ordinary deck of playing cards? Now you can, even if you’ve never touched a deck of cards in your life. In this class, you’ll learn a repertoire of dazzling tricks, many requiring no special skill, as well as basic sleight-of-hand techniques and professional tips for making the magic more powerful and entertaining.
COURSE CODE: MAGI
Sec. 01: 4 Thursdays, 7:30-9pm. Begins Aug. 7 | $125
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT AUTO REPAIR
Bruce Gerry | Dr. Tuneup, Auto Mechanic
Join an experienced mechanic and instructor who can make all things automotive both fun and clear. We’ll cover basic maintenance and troubleshooting ignition, charging, cooling, fluids, electrical, brakes, and exhaust systems. We’ll discuss common problems encountered with any vehicle. You’ll be better able to diagnose problems, perform basic maintenance, and deal competently and knowledgeably with local mechanics. Please note: This is a lecture and demonstration class.
COURSE CODE: CARR
Sec. 01: 3 Mondays, 6:30-8:30pm. Begins Aug. 17 | $115
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming. Sometimes, it’s hard even to know where to start! After attending this session, you’ll realize that planning your wedding doesn’t have to be stressful. Taught by a seasoned wedding planning consultant with over 11 years of experience, this session is geared toward newly-engaged couples and those who need help with the wedding planning process. You’ll get a step-bystep overview of all the “to-dos” required to plan your perfect day, when you should do them, how to remain organized throughout the planning process, and practical tips from an experienced wedding planning pro. If there’s a wedding in your future, this class is a must!
COURSE CODE: YMNW
Sec. 01: Tuesday, 6:30-8:30pm. Sep. 1 | $65
Join us for CCAE's Annual Spring Party
LOCAL FARMS • LOCAL FLAVORS
LOCAL COMMUNITY • LOCAL IMPACT
Thursday, June 4th | 5:30 pm - 8 pm Blacksmith House, 56 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA
Join your friends and neighbors for vibrant conversation while sampling delicious food prepared by some of your favorite restaurants! This year our chef-crafted bites will feature homegrown flavors from local farms. Get your tickets now for $125 before the price increases on May 23rd.
Check out the website to learn about patron opportunities and more!
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STAFF
Board of Directors
JaneAnn Fisher
Chair
Lidija Polutnik
Vice Chair
Diane Carson Vice President
David Lehman
Vice President
Michael Goldman
Treasurer
Phil Crutchfield
Secretary
Kris Butler
Brian Carey
Neha Coureil
Anne-Sophie Divenyi
Ploy Khunisorn
William Manley
Lauren Marshall
Alberto Ovalle
Patricia Schiapelli
Nan Soule
Board of Visitors
Jenny Littlefield
Chair
Joel Altstein and Nan Laird
Sharmy Altshuler
Hilary Burling
Elizabeth Coxe and David Forney
Sandra and Toby Fairbank
Dotty Gonson
Hormoz Goodarzy and Elaheh Kheirandish
Jock Herron, Jr.
Lauren Holleran
Jane Katims
Susan Eldredge Mead
Suzanne Ogden
Bill and LuAnn Polk
Mary Power
Jeannie and Matey Smith
Fredericka Stevenson
David and Patricia Straus
Iana Strominger
E.V. Sweeney
Brattle House
42 Brattle Street
617-547-6789 Ext. 101
Blacksmith House
56 Brattle Street
617-547-6789 Ext. 104
Director
Linda Burton
Executive Director
Program Staff
Francesca Ferraris
Director of Programs; Program Director, Languages, History & Contemporary Issues
Michelle Baxter
Program Director, Humanities & Performing Arts
Jacob Lavoie
Program Director, Food & Wine, Science & Nature
Bryan Ramey
Program Director, Visual Arts & Crafts, Lifestyle & Recreation
Lauren Darien
Program Assistant Manager; Business, Finance & Technology
Development Staff
Steve Kumins
Director of Development
Jessie Strauss
Development Manager
Marketing Staff
Shannon Fitzgerald
Senior Marketing Manager
Lena Borovci
Senior Marketing Manager; Program Manager, Fiber Arts
Customer Service & Communications
Emilie Magnan
Student Services Manager
Gabija Vaisvilaite
Student Services Coordinator
Registration Staff
Farkhad Abdikadirov
Fiona Collins
Patricia Estrela
Lauren Fischer
Delfine Masongo
Dina Naddy
Robert Phillipps
Jen Stott
Finance & Operations
Tavia Malone Director of Finance & Administration
Jessica Wright
Business Manager
Michael Schultz
Logistics Manager
Christopher Moore
Student Services & Logistics Coordinator
CORPORATE SPONSORS AND GRANT PARTNERS
Policies
Register early!
CCAE reserves the right to cancel classes due to low enrollment or other considerations. We begin cancelling classes with low enrollment up to 10 days before a class is scheduled to start, so register as early as possible in order to reserve your seat and help it meet the minimum enrollment.
Please note: Students must be at least 18 years old to register for a class at CCAE, unless the class is specifically listed as one for an adult with a child.
Registration fees
A $10 registration fee is charged per person per term. Only one registration fee is charged per person per term. The registration fee is not refundable if you withdraw from a class. The fee is refunded if CCAE cancels your class or if changes to the class schedule prevent you from attending. This does not apply to individual classes rescheduled due to inclement weather or other significant factors beyond CCAE’s control.
Withdrawing from a class
If you withdraw seven days or more before the start date of a class, we will issue you a class credit (valid for 18 months from the date of issuance). If you prefer, we will refund the class tuition minus a $10 processing fee. All refund requests must be submitted within 90 days of purchase. Withdrawals from classes and events under $25 are only eligible for a class credit; no refunds are given.
If you withdraw six days or less from the start date of a class, we do not issue class credits or refunds.
Transferring to another class
You may transfer into a different class if you contact us at least three business days before the start of the class. If there is a difference in price, we will issue a class credit or there will be a remaining balance to be paid. Refunds are not given.
Cancellation or schedule change
CCAE reserves the right to cancel classes due to low enrollment or other considerations. We begin cancelling classes with low enrollment up to 10 days before a class is scheduled to start. If we cancel your class, you will receive a course credit good for 18 months from date of issue or, upon your request, a refund. Please call our registration office to request a refund. All refund requests must be submitted within 30 days of class cancellation. If CCAE changes the class schedule before the class begins such that you are unable to attend, you may receive a refund or a class credit upon request if you contact us before the withdrawal deadline. This does not apply to individual classes rescheduled due to inclement weather, or other significant factors beyond CCAE’s control.
Typographical errors
CCAE reserves the right to correct the listed price of a class or other errors due to misprints.
Photos
We may occasionally take pictures of students in our classes for use in promotional materials. Your enrollment in a class indicates your approval.
View a full list of our online and in-person class policies and terms and conditions at ccae.org/about/policies.
DISCOUNTED PARKING FOR CCAE STUDENTS
We offer discounted parking with validation at the Charles Square Garage and the University Place Garage.
Charles Square Garage
Bring your ticket to CCAE Registration Desk to be validated for the deals below.
Please note: Parking may be limited depending on the time of day.
Enter garage between 3:30pm–1am, Mon. thru Fri.
Purchase a $10 sticker at the CCAE Registration Desk.
Cash only.
University Place Garage
Enter garage before 4pm, Mon. thru Fri.: <1hr = $5 1-5 hrs = $14
Enter garage after 4pm Mon. thru Fri. and all weekend: <1hr = $5 >1hr = $10
Ask for a yellow validation ticket at the CCAE Registration Desk.
Free parking in Harvard Square on Sundays!
ONLINE CLASSES
Online classes take place on Zoom. The Zoom link and information on how to join will be emailed to you. Please do not share your Zoom link with others. Each registration is valid for one person only. We don’t provide recorded classes. Recording and taking pictures are not allowed. Please be aware that students are required to turn their camera on.
IN-PERSON CLASSES
Please view our In-Person Safety Guidelines page at ccae.org/about/in-person-safetyguidelines.
Cambridge Center for Adult Education
42 Brattle St
Cambridge MA 02138
SPOTLIGHT ON OLGA KATSOVSKIY
WRITING INSTRUCTOR
WHAT DOES THE PHRASE, AND TITLE OF YOUR POPULAR CREATIVE NON-FICTION WRITING WORKSHOP, “WRITING IN CURVES” MEAN TO YOU?
Our memories are not linear. They rise and fall, forming peaks and valleys. Writing in Curves is about retracing the path to find what's around the bend. The narrator's emotional journey is most important in a personal essay, where time can loop, contract, and expand. I always ask students, what does your narrator want? That is where the essay begins.
PERSONAL WRITING CAN BE A SOLITARY AND SOMETIMES VULNERABLE ACTIVITY — HOW DO YOU CREATE AN OPEN, SAFE, AND COLLABORATIVE ENVIRONMENT IN YOUR GROUP CLASSES?
I aim to create a balance between craft discussions, generative writing, and workshop sessions. I ask questions because I'm genuinely interested in what everyone brings to
class and listen to what is shared (and often what isn't said) to get a sense of the stories students are writing. I value sincerity and honesty and create a group dynamic conducive to respectful and constructive discussions.
STUDENTS HAVE SHARED THAT YOUR WORKSHOPS FEEL LIKE “GROUP THERAPY” AT TIMES — WHY DO YOU THINK THAT IS?
I strive to make my class a safe space to talk openly about hard things. I think students call it "therapy" because it's a third place where they feel heard. Creative nonfiction is largely about mining memories. I teach writers how to look beneath the surface. There's a paradox in essay writing, the more we hone in on our unique experiences the more relatable they become. The personal becomes universal. Writing is a journey we take to learn something about ourselves and the world. A personal essay is never only about ourselves.
Harvard Square
42 Brattle Street
Cambridge MA 02138
T (617) 547-6789
WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO A FIRST-TIME WRITING STUDENT?
Cultivate your reading habits. Read widely and spend time with the genre you want to write. Practice by imitating the authors whose work resonates with you.
Read the full interview with Olga Katsovskiy at ccae.org.
