Infinity Components

What does Infinity offer?

• Individual instruction with experienced music, art, dance and theater educators.
• Participation in music ensembles directed by music professionals.
• Unique music and arts workshops and opportunities.
• Access to a fully equipped recording and rehearsal studio.
• Digital recording, audio production, and sound technology instruction.
• Access to instruments and equipment based on interest and ability.
• Mentorship from a network of music and arts professionals from our community.
• Opportunities to perform and showcase artistic talent.

Performance Ensembles

One of the most unique and beneficial aspects of Infinity is the student ensemble or band component. Students are directed and mentored by seasoned performers and musicians as they learn a repertoire, practice stage presence, learn music business principles and gain valuable performance experience.

Once private lesson students have achieved performance level, they may be invited to audition for one of our music ensembles. Our ensembles are musically diverse and currently include an Infinity Blues/Rock Band, Infinity Saxophone Ensemble, Infinity Voices, Cultural Drum Ensembles, Collective Groove (Steel Drum Ensemble), and a County-wide Big Band! Membership in a performance group requires a strong commitment to rehearsals and personal preparation.

Performance venues are as varied and diverse as the music.
Infinity ensembles have performed at: Chautauqua Institution, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Great Blue Heron Festival, Buffalo’s Memphis Bound Blues Competition, International Blues Challenge in Memphis Tennessee, and a variety of festivals, benefits, and special events throughout the county and WNY region.

INSTILL Program

(Infinity Network of Students Training for Independent Leadership Level)

The INSTILL Program was created for students who are interested in increasing the amount of time they spend at the Infinity Center outside of regular lesson times. Instill training allows responsible, serious students to achieve “independent” status, enabling them to utilize practice rooms, rehearsal spaces and Infinity spaces during hours that the Center is open, but independent of an Infinity instructor or staff member. (Staff members will always be available for assistance and for general supervision.)

INSTILL students also participate in an advisory panel with Infinity’s administrative staff, and assist with designing classes and relevant programming, organizing performances and events, and generating ideas for the future of Infinity. Students also serve as role models and helpers to other students, and are designated as leaders within the program.

Intern Program

Infinity offers several intern positions to interested and qualified students. Students are paired with an adult mentor in a learning area of their choice to assist, shadow, and learn a set of marketable skills to help prepare them for their futures. Interns are able to work as office assistants, class assistants, library assistants, inventory assistants, and more! Intern positions are based on student interest, and in exchange for volunteer intern hours, students receive free or discounted classes or lessons.

Infinity History

Imagine a creative environment full of children who are engaged in the arts, building positive peer and mentoring relationships, and are surrounded by a safe and secure environment. Imagine a place where children of all ages, races, socio-economic statuses, and religions can work together, think together and create together. A place where creative thought is nurtured, students’ individuality and efforts are celebrated, and students are challenged to stretch their minds. A place where young people are encouraged to grow, learn and lead through hands-on learning experiences that provide practical and artistic skills that help them prepare them for their futures.

Infinity Visual and Performing Arts has become that place; a program that fuses arts education, talent showcasing opportunities, and mentorship for young people into one complete experience; a place to “Explore! Experience! and Excel!”

Infinity Visual and Performing Arts, Inc. is a multifaceted, innovative music and arts education program located in Jamestown, NY. The Infinity concept was developed as an opportunity for aspiring young musicians to develop and enhance their creative talents and performance skills under the supervision and guidance of local, professional musicians and educators. The name Infinity was chosen to represent the potential for future growth and participation for youth throughout the community. What began in a parent’s living room in 1998 with a group of seven talented young musicians has evolved into a comprehensive visual and performing arts non-profit organization housed in a 14,100 sq. ft. performance and learning center that serves more than 2,000 students each year in various program components. In its formative years, Infinity was nurtured under the umbrella of the Arts Council for Chautauqua County. In 2004 a volunteer Board of Directors was formed and with guidance and support from the Arts Council and the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, Infinity was incorporated on January 20, 2005. Federal IRS 501(c)(3) status was achieved October 4, 2005. Infinity’s founder, Ron Graham, retired in 2008 after 10 years of service to Infinity and long-time employee Shane Hawkins was promoted to the position of director in 2009. Since 2010, Infinity programming has expanded beyond music to include art, dance, theater and literature experiences and classes. In 2011, adult classes and birth to five year old music and art opportunities were added to Infinity program options.

In 2014, in order to accommodate the growing number of students, the Infinity Center relocated to a new, custom-designed facility in the ground floor of the Lynn Building, at 301 East 2nd St. This move was made possible thanks to generous help and support from local and regional funders, private donations, and a grassroots community fundraising campaign. The Lynn building provides 14,100 sq ft of dedicated lesson and office space which allows Infinity programs to continue growing and meeting the needs of our community well into the future!

Infinity provides a unique environment and experience for a broad cross-section of area young people. Program access is guaranteed to any student demonstrating a desire to pursue learning in the visual and performing arts, without regard to gender, ethnicity, social or religious background, prior experience, or ability to pay. Infinity is a place where creative growth is cultivated and nurtured by a networked team of dedicated adult mentors, community supporters and area music and arts professionals.

Why are the arts important?

• Infinity is dedicated to helping kids “Explore! Experience! and Excel!”
• Music and arts education leads to increased self-esteem, confidence, and personal discipline and is beneficial in cognitive, motor, and language development.
• Music, art, dance, and theater classes stimulate memory and imagination.
• Creative activities provide a healthy outlet for emotions, feelings and ideas.
• Students are able to socialize with other creative peers in a safe, supportive and engaging environment.
• Involvement in music, visual arts, dance and theater is FUN!