The Dorothy Kenna Brasfield
Conservatory of the Fine Arts
Bringing people together through music, art, and community—right here in Vicksburg.
Private Lesson Registration Open
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Voices of Vicksburg Registration Open
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Private Lesson Registration Open 〰️ Voices of Vicksburg Registration Open 〰️
Our Services
The Conservatory aims to offer a diverse array of opportunities that will enhance Vicksburg's storied tradition of fine arts involvement.
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Individuals of all ages are invited to enroll in personalized lessons with our qualified and experienced faculty.
We offer instruction in a variety of instruments, including voice, piano, violin, beginner viola, music composition, brass, woodwind, and percussion.
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Throughout the year, we offer workshops that meet once a week for eight weeks. By the end of these sessions, participants will acquire new skills and artworks to take home.
Our workshops cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced, and are designed for both children and adults. Some of our offerings even encourage joint participation between parents and their children.
The topics covered include crochet, digital art, watercolor, basket weaving, and more. Please refer to our calendar for a complete list of workshops scheduled throughout the year, along with registration details.
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The Voices of Vicksburg is a community youth chorus for students in grades 7-12 regardless of school affiliation, directed by Cody Nelson, the director of the Vicksburg Conservatory of the Fine Arts.
This dedicated choir performs throughout the academic year at various venues across Mississippi. Participants receive comprehensive instruction in music theory, sight reading, and performance techniques, enhancing their musical skills and artistic expression.
In addition to their musical commitments, our Voices of Vicksburg students actively engage in community service projects throughout the year, fostering connections with the city of Vicksburg and providing valuable support to its residents.
Our History
Founded in 2006 by Dorothy Brasfield, The Conservatory of the Fine Arts was created to bring high-quality, accessible arts education to the people of Vicksburg and beyond. Dorothy — a lifelong music educator and tireless advocate for the arts — inspired thousands through her work with area schools, the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, Mississippi Sings, and several statewide cultural organizations. Her passion helped introduce over 100,000 Mississippians to the joy of the fine arts.
To honor her legacy, the Conservatory proudly carries her name and vision — not only as a tribute to a remarkable educator, but as a continuing voice for the arts in Mississippi.
The Conservatory is a ministry of the Church of the Holy Trinity, a congregation deeply committed to arts education and serving the wider community. Through the Church’s support, the Conservatory has remained a welcoming space for creativity, learning, and cultural engagement for nearly two decades.
We are located in the historic Cashman Building — once home to the Vicksburg Post — which now echoes with music, learning, and the sounds of artistic growth.
Though the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought significant challenges and a prolonged pause in programming, a new chapter is underway. Under the leadership of Cody Nelson, a local educator devoted to the youth of Vicksburg, the Conservatory is looking forward to a vibrant revival. Cody brings fresh energy, community connection, and a renewed commitment to making the arts a thriving part of life in Vicksburg for students of all ages.
Together — with the legacy of Dorothy Brasfield, the support of the Church of the Holy Trinity, and the passion of our students and staff — the Conservatory continues its mission: to make the arts accessible, meaningful, and alive in our community.
Make an impact today
Support our mission by contributing a donation.