parents can keep their kids engaged and enhance in their education this summer
The time has arrived for parents to start thinking about summer activities that keep their kids engaged and enhance their education, while still having fun.
For information, or to register for Melbourne Municipal Band’s Summer Youth Band Program, visit mmband.org/syb or call 321-480-6256 or 321-724-0555.
BREVARD COUNTY • MELBOURNE, FLORIDA – The time has arrived for parents to start thinking about summer activities that keep their kids engaged and enhance their education, while still having fun.
The Space Coast offers a varied selection of summer camps and programs, but not that many are free, unlike Melbourne Municipal Band’s Summer Youth Band Program, which could well be one of the area’s best-kept secrets.
The program, which runs from June 8 to 26, provides an opportunity for students in grades 6 to 12 to enjoy the many benefits of playing a musical instrument, benefits that extend well beyond technical prowess.
“Music education is important because it helps students develop multitasking abilities, cultivate responsibility, and learn to work effectively with others, all in a fun and engaging environment,” said Jonathan Baker, who directs the program.
Enrollment is now open for the program, which meets from 8 to 11:30 a.m., Mondays through Fridays, from June 8 to 26, ending with a public graduation concert that allows the kids to showcase their expertise.
Since there are two sections, beginners can dip their toes into music and see if they like it, while students who already play an instrument can try more challenging music and hone ensemble techniques.
“Students receive instruction with a professional musician for an hour, and then an hour in an ensemble setting learning how to play as a group,” Baker explained.
Lessons will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1145 Creel St., just off Eau Gallie Blvd in the Eau Gallie Arts District of Melbourne.
The program is a gift for both students and parents, given that it costs nothing, it is extremely easy on the household budget.
Lessons are free, as is the lesson book and the first month’s rental of the musical instrument of choice. The only caveat is that if the child does not have access to a musical instrument, it must be rented through Marion Music or Music & Arts, which require a minimum of three months’ rental.
Parents are responsible for the cost of the last two months’ rent.
Instruction is available for flute, clarinet, trumpet/cornet, French horn, baritone horn, trombone, tuba, drums, oboe, bassoon, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, and baritone saxophone.
The program is made possible by community donations and volunteer time from MMB musicians. Baker notes that the program attracts approximately 80 young musicians, but that there is always room for more.
It’s hard not to love the youth band. The kids get to meet new friends, improve creativity and self-expression, develop discipline and patience, and enhance their cognitive and problem-solving abilities.
Their parents know their children in a supervised, positive experience that will serve them well into adulthood.
The only problem is that registration for MMB’s Summer Youth Band closes June 1, which will be here all too soon.
There is no time like the present to register. For more information, or to register, visit mmband.org/syb or call 321-480-6256 or 321-724-0555.
