Your browser is not optimized for viewing this website.

More information »

St. Johns County Council on Aging

Filter by Category



The Arts (writing, painting, acting, etc.)

Ballet on Mondays in May at River House

$2825

with Judy Woodruff

Calendar May 4, 2026 at 1:30 pm, runs for 3 weeks

This ballet class is designed for seniors but emphasizes classical technique rather than exercise for its own sake. Approximately the first 20-30 minutes of class will be devoted to floor work that develops range of joint motion, strength, stretch and muscular sequencing necessary for ballet technique. That will be followed by about 30 minutes each at the barre and center. These exercises are selected to improve balance, posture, upper body range of motion and enhance the ability to transfer weight with confidence and grace. Some prior dance experience is recommended. The ability to work lying or sitting on the floor, get up from the floor, and the ability to stand and move unaided are required.

Ballet shoes are recommended.

Class sessions will be held on Mondays, May 4, 11, 18 (no class session on May 25) from 1:30 - 3 at River House (179 Marine St.)

For ages 18 and up.

 

Will run

Singing on Tuesdays in May at River House

$25

with Abigail Dyer

Calendar May 5, 2026 at 10:15 am, runs for 4 weeks

Group singing class is focused on the basics of classical singing technique.  You'll learn exercises to improve your breath control as well as your vocal strength, range and clarity.  You'll also have a chance to apply your new technique to the repertoire of your choice.  

Please bring two printed copies of the sheet music for a song of your choice to work on over the course of the month. Students of all levels are welcome.

Singing teacher and classical singer Abigail Dyer was born in West Orange, New Jersey. With a private voice studio in St Augustine Beach and over 20 years' experience teaching opera professionals and amateur singers alike, Abby specializes in developing healthy vocal technique in the service of expressive singing.

Abby is a graduate of Vassar College (BA) and Columbia University (MA, M.Phil., Ph.D.), and the Mannes College Wagner Theater Program.

Class sessions will be held Tuesdays, May 5, 12, 19, 26 from 10:15 to 11:15 at River House (179 Marine Street, St. Augustine 32084)

For ages 18 and up.

Will run

Zambra Mora Dance Class on Tuesdays in May at River House

$1250

with Gina Marie Newman

Calendar May 5, 2026 at 11:45 am, runs for 2 weeks

Join Gina Marie for a lively and inspiring Zambra Mora class that blends the passion of Spanish fusion dance with expressive movement techniques. In this series of beginner friendly classes you’ll explore:  

  • Dynamic dance combinations rooted in Spanish and fusion styles  
  • Skirt work that adds flair and drama to your performance  
  • Silk fan techniques to enhance your dance through graceful props  
  • Creative expression that celebrates rhythm, artistry, and individuality

With years of teaching and performance experience, Gina brings her expertise, warmth, and energy to every class. Whether you’re new to Zambra Mora or looking to expand your repertoire, this class offers a fun, supportive environment to grow your skills and enjoy the beauty of dance.  

Dance shoes or barefoot in the studio.

Wear a full skirt if you have one. Gina will have a few loaners as well as practice fans.

Class sessions will be on Tuesdays, May 5, 12 (no class sessions on May 19 & 26) from 11:45 to 12:45 at River House (179 Marine St. in St. Augustine)

For ages 18 and up.

Full Course

Watercolor 1 on Wednesdays in May at River House

$50

with David Ouellette

Calendar May 6, 2026 at 9 am, runs for 4 weeks

This course is designed to teach the student the techniques of transparent watercolor using both the ”wet” and “dry” methods. Student will learn the unique characteristics of the watercolor medium, its possibilities and limitations, as well as the special papers and brushes used in the execution of art works.

Mr. Ouellette received his Bachelor of Fine Arts and Master of Arts in Painting from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. He taught at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and showed in many galleries and museums including the Detroit Institute of Art. He moved to St. Augustine in 1981 where he continued his career as an artist and professor of Fine Art at the Florida School of the Arts in his twenty-six year tenure. He was also a professor of Fine Arts, Painting and Design and Art History at SJRCC St. Augustine campus. He is currently teaching Art History and Studio classes at Flagler College Continuing Education.

Watercolor Materials and Supplies                

Brushes:

  • 3/4” or 1” flat

  • #8 and #10 rounds,

  •  rigger brush 

 Paper:

  • Arches 22”x30”, 140 lb. cold press, one sheet or an Arches w/c block. 

           With the larger sheets, you can cut or tear them in half for easier             transportation to class.

 Paints:

Box sets of tube watercolors which should include most of these:        

  • ultramarine blue
  • cerulean blue
  • cobalt blue
  • yellow ochre
  • alizarin crimson
  • cadmium red light
  • cadmium yellow light 
  • new gamboge
  • burnt umber
  • burnt sienna 

Other materials:                            

  • plastic palette with wells for paint and flat mixing areas
  • painting board, approx. 16”x20”
  • masking tape, biege 
  • materials box
  • non-breakable container for water
  • roll of paper towels
  • portfolio
  • hair dryer if you have one

Class sessions will be held on Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20, 27 from 9 to 11 at River House (179 Marine St. St. Augustine 32084)

For ages 18 and up.

Full Course

Jamming to the Classics - Easy Level on Wednesdays in May at River House

$3750

with Dennis Fermin

Calendar May 6, 2026 at 9:45 am, runs for 4 weeks

A great way to get used to playing alongside others and having fun, learning easy songs, in an encouraging environment.

Open to Guitar, Ukulele or other small stringed instruments.

Music Stand highly encouraged. Pen or pencil for notes. Knowledge of very basic chords.

Dennis Fermin has been playing guitar for over 30 years and joyfully helping others learn to play along the way. As a graduate from Musician's Institute of California, he has the skills and the patience to teach on many different topics and styles of music. Currently you can hear him perform locally as Fermin Spanish Guitar.

Class sessions will run on Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20, 27 from 9:45 - 11:15 a.m. at River House, 179 Marine Street, St. Augustine 32084.

For ages 18 and up.

Will run

Drawing 1 on Wednesdays in May at River House

$50

with David Ouellette

Calendar May 6, 2026 at 11:15 am, runs for 4 weeks

This course is structured to develop basic drawing techniques by concentrating on the elements of descriptive drawing through observation. 

Students will develop the qualities of line and volume with a full range of values. The course will also cover linear perspective and compositional design.

Materials needed:

  • 18" x 24" drawing paper pad (not sketching paper)
  • 16" x 20" (approx.) drawing board
  • #2 and #4 graphic pencils
  • white plastic eraser
  • kneaded eraser
  • masking tape

Class sessions will be held on Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20, 27 from 11:15 to 1:15 at the River House (179 Marine Street, St. Augustine 32084).

For ages 18 and up.

Will run

Guitar 2 for Beginners on Wednesdays in May at River House

$3750

with Dennis Fermin

Calendar May 6, 2026 at 11:30 am, runs for 4 weeks

Guitar 2 for Beginners:

  • Learning more open string chords
  • Introduction to 12 Bar Blues progressions
  • Smoother chord changes
  • Having fun learning more pop / classic rock songs

Supplies needed

  • Acoustic Guitar 
  • Compact Music Stand 
  • Pen or Pencil for notes

Dennis Fermin has been playing guitar for over 30 years and joyfully helping others learn to play along the way. As a graduate from Musician's Institute of California, he has the skills and the patience to teach on many different topics and styles of music. Currently you can hear him perform locally as Fermin Spanish Guitar.

Class sessions will be held on Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20, 27 from 11:30 to 1 at River House (179 Marine St.  St. Augustine 32084)

For ages 18 and up.

 

Will run

Tap Dancing Level 3 on 3 Wednesdays and a Thursday in May at River House

$3750

with Judy Woodruff

Calendar May 6, 2026 at 1:30 pm, runs for 4 weeks

For the experienced tap dancer with a good command of tap technique and vocabulary this intermediate level class emphasizes choreography. Practice includes a variety of time steps, more syncopated rhythms, developing speed with clarity, and performance quality. Choreography includes new work and some dances from the Matanzas Tap performance repertory.

Class sessions will be held on Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 27 from 1:30 to 3:00 and Thursday, May 21 from 12:15 to 1:45 at River House (179 Marine Street, St. Augustine 32084).

For ages 18 and up.

Will run





Forgot password?
Staff Log In