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Programs

Musical Mentors Exploration

Musical Mentors Exploration (MME) is an after-school program that partners with public schools to offer musical enrichment and an opportunity for students to “explore” musical instruments, genres, and performance. The program includes group classes and private or small group instruction. Weekly group classes introduce highly engaging experiences across many musical pathways. Classes are open to all levels of interest and ability. The curriculum introduces instruments that have a low barrier to entry, allowing students to easily and profoundly experience the joys of making music and learning
how to play an instrument. Throughout the year, the teacher and students build on these foundational skills by introducing additional instruments and expanding on individual and group music making. After 4-6 weeks of group classes, students have the option to participate in private or small group lessons on an instrument of their choice. These “exploration lessons” can inspire students to take the next step in their musical journey.

MME  is for elementary school students (grades 1-5) and middle school students (grades 6-8) who want to learn in a supportive and engaging group environment while also receiving individualized instruction. Students may participate as experienced instrumentalists or musical novices as the curriculum allows for varying levels of experience. Many students engage in the program for multiple years and develop a strong foundation of both musical and interpersonal skills.

Students are expected to commit to the group classes for the entire duration of the program (September through April). Private or small group lessons are optional. Students who do not follow MME’s attendance policy will not be offered to privilege of taking private or small group lessons.

 

Program Cost

After-school Program Cost: $400/student*

*Programs that begin mid-year or have changes to the program structure may have a smaller program cost. This will be communicated through school program partners and with each individual school/partner.

  • The cost of this program is subsidized by MMC donors. The true cost per student is $950/student. Thank you donors!
  • Limited scholarships are available based on financial need. Additional financial information must be answered during the application process.
  • Tuition must either be paid in full in September or may be paid monthly from September through March.

 

Cost Includes

  • Thirty weeks of 90-minute group classes
  • Eight 30-minute private or small group lessons (lessons alone are valued at $220)
  • Two performance opportunities
  • Snacks during class
  • Group class instruments and materials as well as loaner instrument for private or small group lessons

Private or Small Group Lessons

After 4-6 weeks of group classes and  instrument introductions, students are given the opportunity to schedule eight 30-minute private or group lessons on their preferred instrument. Students may select from the below list of instruments and MMC provides instruments on loan and method books for private or small group instruction. Instrument requests, musical mentor matching, and scheduling will happen AFTER group classes have started.

  • Drums/percussion
  • Piano/keyboard
  • Recorder/flute (middle school only)
  • Ukulele
  • Violin
  • Voice

2024/25 School Year Performance Opportunities

  • Musical Mentors Exploration Extravaganza – NYC
    Date/Time: TBD
    Location: TBD
    Who: All MME students, families, school partners, and supporters
    Join us for the first ever Exploration Extravaganza this spring, celebrating nearly 200 NYC students. This performance will include group and solo performances by our talented students, teachers, and volunteer instructors!

How to Register

Registration will open mid-August and closes early to mid-September based on your school. Please check the application closure dates listed below. Late registrations may be accepted if space is available, but will incur a $25 late registration fee to cover delayed application processing.

 

Class Levels

  • Green – Introduction to music-making, best for students who have never played or studied a musical instrument before
  • Yellow – Multiple levels/experience, best for students who work well surrounded by students of all skills levels
  • Blue – Intermediate-level musicians, best for students who have some experience with playing music but are still working on getting comfortable with an instrument
  • Violet – Advanced-level musicians, best for students who are proficient in at least one instrument and need a challenge

 

2024/25 SCHOOL YEAR

Do you have a scheduling conflict with your school’s program schedule or do you want to start MME at your elementary or middle school? Reach out to us for options/support – [email protected]

MME 24/25 Student & Parent/Guardian Handbook

New York: PS2
Monday – 2:30-4:00pm
Application CLOSES on September 18
Enrollment decisions communicated by September 20
Classes begin the week of September 23
CLICK HERE for your school’s program schedule

New York: PS66 Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
Tuesday – 2:30-4:00 pm
Application CLOSES October 16
Enrollment decisions communicated by October 18
Classes begin the week of October 22
CLICK HERE for your school’s program schedule
(note: MMC may offer additional sessions depending on enrollment numbers)

New York: PS145 The Bloomingdale School
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday – 2:30-4:00pm
Application CLOSES on September 1o
Enrollment decisions communicated by September 13
Classes begin the week of September 16
CLICK HERE for your school’s program schedule

New York: PS164 Queens Valley School of the Arts
Tuesday and Thursday – 2:30-4:00pm
Application CLOSES on September 10
Enrollment decisions communicated by September 18
Classes begin the week of September 23
CLICK HERE for your school’s program schedule