Instrument & Voice Lessons
Individual music lessons are the best way to learn an instrument, but not everyone can afford them. We offer the next best thing – group lessons at no charge for ages 7 and up. Free instrument rental is included if needed.
Where are classes held? Classes are held in New Albany, IN.
How much does it cost? We believe that music should be available to everyone. As such, we do not charge for these lessons but offer them on a voluntary, anonymous donation basis. It costs us $6-$7 per student, per class to provide these lessons. This applies even if you miss a week, since we still have to pay for your spot. If you can donate that amount, great! If you cannot afford that, it’s ok, we are still very happy to have you as a student. We encourage you to just donate what you can, even if it’s just a couple of coins. Or you can volunteer a couple of hours of your time – just let us know if you’d like to help out. There is a donation box available at the lesson location for cash or check donations, or you can donate online. Note that all donations are tax-deductible.
What times are the classes? When you sign up, we’ll put you in a new class, which we try to schedule on a day and time that works with all the students – we’ll contact you beforehand to find out your schedule. The class can be on a weekday or weekend, mornings afternoons or evenings. We’ll try to make it work with your schedule.
How many weeks do the classes last? Beginner classes last for 6 weeks. At the end of that time, you can decide to continue if you want – you’ll be placed in an ongoing class that you can stay in for as long as you wish – just let us know if you want to drop out.
If I sign up, how soon will I get to start lessons? A few of our classes have open slots available immediately. For most of them, however, it takes a little longer – weeks and sometimes a few months. This is because we usually have to wait until enough new students have signed up, and sometimes we have to wait until we have the funds available to start a new class.
What ages can take part? Lessons are open to beginners and intermediates from ages 7 to adult. (Children 7-12 years old must be accompanied by an adult to the classes.) For children younger than 7, we hold a special class called CMA Kiddies designed to introduce your child to music from an early age. The classes feature singing, rhythm and other fun activities designed to give little ones a foundation in music.
Can I sign up for more than one instrument? That’s the cool thing about our program! It gives you an opportunity to try out different classes to find the best fit for you without a big investment. Keep in mind however that you are making a commitment to attend classes every week for each instrument you sign up for, and you will need to make time for daily practice on each instrument. For that reason, and to help us get you assigned to a class as quickly as possible, we ask that you only sign up for your top one or two preferred classes. You can always explore other options if you find your original assignment isn’t for you.
What if I don’t have an instrument? Let us know and we’ll do our best to get you one to borrow, at no charge. You can take it home and keep it for as long as you are having lessons with us.
Are classes held year-round? Yes, with the exception of a two-week break for Christmas and New Year. There are also no classes held on Thanksgiving Day. Classes continue as normal on all other holidays.
Lessons Offered
Student Expectations
Make A Commitment
Arrive On Time
Practice Regularly
Keep Us Informed
Everyone misses the occasional class, but if you miss more than once in a while, you’ll start to fall behind, you won’t progress, and you’ll just get frustrated. So, try to attend every class, unless it’s unavoidable.
The class schedule is tight, so please be ready to start at your assigned lesson time. Arriving on time will give you the most time to learn and grow!
You’ll be amazed how much you improve with even 5 minutes a day practice. If you don’t practice regularly, your progress will be much slower. Ask your teacher for suggestions!
There’s no shame in dropping out if it’s just not for you, but please let us know. We might be able to give your spot to someone else, or combine two smaller classes into one to save the organization money.
Here's how to sign up!
Follow the link to complete the application form. We will then assign you to a group of up to eight students – you’ll receive an email once you have been accepted for a class.