Explore the arts at Mason through its community arts programs. The Mason Community Arts Academy and the Mason Game and Technology Academy connect all ages and skill levels to enriching, university-quality arts instruction.
Mason Community Arts Academy
Mason Community Arts Academy (formerly known as Potomac Arts Academy) connects community members to arts instruction in music, acting, visual art, film and video, and dance. From inspiring programs for preschoolers to choirs and lessons specifically for seniors, Mason Community Arts Academy offers arts experiences for everyone. The Academy’s offerings also include summer camps and professional development for teachers.
The Academy's faculty members are drawn from the faculty and students of the Mason arts community. Often, talented students lead classes and give lessons as mentored teachers while finishing their degrees. This hands-on training provides the real-world experience needed to launch a successful career. Learn more.
Green Machine
Ranked #1 Pep Band in the Nation by the NCAA, Mason’s Green Machine is a multi-disciplinary arts ensemble composed of musicians, dancers, dramatists, visual artists, choreographers, arts/business managers, educators, and enthusiasts. The ensembles include the Green Machine Pep Band, World-Class GMU Indoor Drumline, World Class Mason Winterguard, Patriots Fife & Drum Corps, 8th GM Regiment Band, Green Machine Spirit Drumline, and Dirty Gold Brass Band. They create impactful and innovative performances for athletic contests, to university ceremonies, to student recruitment and to national and international competitions. In addition, The Green Machine’s inclusive and innovative approach represents the embodiment of Mason’s ideals and values. Learn More.
Below: Green Machine at Mason Madness, 2018
Mason Game and Technology Academy
Mason Game and Technology Academy (MGTA) is the community outreach youth program of George Mason University’s Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI) and the Mason Computer Game Design Program. MGTA offers courses for students, ages 9-18, teacher training workshops, and an Executive Education Certificate program. Courses are developed and taught by Mason faculty, who are assisted by advanced Game Design and Computer Science students, many of whom have start-up companies of their own at VSGI, serving as mentors to the next wave of tech entrepreneurs.
MGTA is one of the fastest growing and most transformational enrichment programs in the region today, integrating all of the STEM core competencies in a challenging, fun, and engaging way. The program’s classes combine both the sciences and the arts, with creative & critical thinking and problem solving skills. Learn More.
Students learn important skills while having fun at the Mason Game and Technology Academy. Classes in Minecraft and Roblox game development are offered from age 9.