Mission Statement
The goal of our After School Program is to create a safe, fun, and educational environment for our FCA students, allowing parents who work late to eliminate the worries of who will take care of their child after the school day is over. We provide instruction in band, orchestra, guitar, and piano so our students are enriched by learning a musical instrument of their choosing, simultaneously instilling a work ethic that translates into all facets of their day-to-day lives.
What we offer
Elementary Orchestra Instruction for complete novices in 4th grade and students benefitting from additional reinforcement of their previous year. Private lessons are highly encouraged as a supplement
Elementary Band Instruction for complete novices in 4th grade and students benefitting from additional reinforcement of their previous year. Private lessons are highly encouraged as a supplement.
Advanced Band Designed for the student who has completed at least 1 year or equivalent of band. Knowledge of note reading and rhythm is a prerequisite for this group. Director approval required.
Advanced Orchestra Designed for the student who has completed their beginner year and have at least 1 year of experience in orchestra. Knowledge of note reading and rhythm is a prerequisite for this group. Director approval required.
Beginner Guitar and Ukulele Group Instruction for students 4th grade and up that are new to guitar. *We recommend you acquire an acoustic guitar as equipment is not provided. We are very happy to make an appropriate recommendation for your child. Not all guitars are the appropriate size.
Private Piano Lessons One-on-One instruction provided for beginners, on campus. This is ideal for children K-3rd or anyone with a desire to learn Piano. 1 weekly, 30-minute private lesson conveniently provided after the school day is done. Lesson time is arranged after you register. *We recommend a digital keyboard or piano at home for practice and mastery of the instrument.
*Please ask if you require advice on acquiring your instrument.
What grade levels can enroll and which instrument should my child play?
Our After School Music program allows students from Kinder and beyond to enroll. Including all ages encourages our younger students to get involved early, especially if an older sibling is enrolled. This usually inspires the younger sibling to get involved as well.
As far as choosing the appropriate instrument*, we encourage the students to familiarize themselves via youtube videos, a trip to the music store so they can hold and see the instruments in person, or simply get in touch with us and we will be happy to advise. Students in K-3rd grade would highly benefit from piano lessons as they are one-on-one and teaches the child very important fundamentals of music that will be useful if they decide to join the band or orchestra.
Regardless, we encourage you and your student to discuss and choose an instrument they will be excited to learn. We also highly encourage a rental instrument (band/orchestra) in case the student changes their mind, as you have return and exchange options when you rent. *A purchase of an appropriate, quality, beginner instrument will easily run over $500. Please do not be fooled by the incredibly inexpensive internet deals as those are instrument shaped objects that are difficult to tune, making the students' experience very frustrating.
How long will it take for my child to learn the instrument? Keep in mind music is a foreign language. In order for one to learn it, consistent practice is necessary. Private lessons are a critical component to the eventual mastery of any instrument and serve as a great tool for one on one attention that is not possible in a group class setting. The 30 minute lessons are geared towards addressing the individual child's learning needs and are the ideal supplement to better learn your instrument. These are also offered with us at an additional cost per lesson. Please inquire about lessons.