Turn over a new leaf with college courses

For many, learning a new skill is high on the list of new year’s resolutions. The Oregon Coast Community College Winter community education season is filled with art, cooking music and more. Check out some of the new options this term.

Improv Comedy Class

Improve your stage wit and wisdom with this improv class taught by members of Porthole Players Theatre Company. The class will include elements of movement, accent work, sketch writing, content editing, prop mastery, scene work and general fearlessness on stage or wherever fun times are to be had using theater games, work groups and real-time evaluation. All ages welcome.

Ten Wednesday sessions beginning Jan. 8 and ending March 12. 6:30 to 8 pm, $45, Newport campus.

Kick start a Sketchbook!

Learn a variety of sketching styles and drawing techniques and experiment with an interesting selection of artist drawing materials with instructor Sue Valentine. Subjects will be nature studies and simple landscapes with materials including graphite pencils, gel pens, brush markers, watercolor pencils and India ink. No experience required.

Four Monday sessions beginning Jan. 6 and running through Feb. 3 (no Jan. 20 class) or Feb. 10 through March 10 (no Feb. 17 class). 2 to 4:30 pm, $80 plus $20 materials fee, Newport campus.

The Sound of Legends

This course with instructor Austen McClure delves into the music of legendary artists and bands through the examination of Queen’s iconic song “Killer Queen.” The course will equip students with the vocabulary and tools necessary to critically evaluate and describe music and teach them how to apply these skills to other significant pieces from musicians such as Eric Clapton, David Bowie and the Beach Boys. By the end of the course, students will be able to listen with critical ears, identify the defining characteristics of iconic songs and understand what makes them stand the test of time.

Six Tuesday sessions beginning Jan. 21 and ending Feb. 25. 5:30 to 7 pm, $45, Lincoln City campus.

For more information and registration, go to oregoncoast.edu/communityed.