The program will offer a culturally enriching experience that promotes learning, collaboration, and creativity through the study of traditional Dominican music by developing their improvisational skills and showcasing their talents in public performances. Led by local musicians and educators, 5th – 8th grade students will learn about the historical and cultural significance of each musical style and will have the opportunity to receive hands on instruction to dance, and play the tambora and guitar.
Important Dates To Keep In Mind:
♫ October 5th – Signing Day
♫ November – Program Begins
♫ April 15th – Program Ends
♫ TBD – Showcase
The program will be conducted in Camden, NJ from 5:00 PM – 7:15 PM and students will be
required to attend once a week to their selected class.
Schedule
Class of 2024
Last year from October 2023 - March 2024, MTC launched the first cohort of its Cultural Youth Music Program. The cohort consisted of 20 students at Veterans Memorial Family School where they focused on the guitar and tambora. Throughout the program, students received hands-on instruction in a small classroom setting to enhance cultural awareness and musical literacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
♪ What are the requirements for the program?
Students must have reliable transportation to and from the site location and will be required to attend twice a week to ensure strong grasp of curriculum. Parents will be required to fill out necessary paperwork by no later than October 5th.
♪ Will there be lunch provided?
Each day of instruction, all students will be provided with bagged dinner including a sandwich, chips and water.
♪ What is Signing Day?
Signing Day offers interested families who have been contacted confirming their child’s eligibility to fill out any
outstanding paperwork and meet leaders of MTC as well as the instructors. Signing Day will occur on October 5th from 12:00pm - 4:00pm at the host site of the program and all parents of interested youth will be required to attend.
♪ What if my child wants to enroll in both instruments?
At this time, we ask interested youth to only enroll in one instrument to expand the opportunity for other youth to also be able to participate in the program.
♪ How big is the class size?
Dance class: 20 students
Guitar: 8 students per level
Tambora: 16 students
♪ What is the attendance policy?
We ask that students not miss more than 3 classes throughout the duration of the program. However, we
understand families’ emergencies and medical concerns do come up. We ask that you communicate that with us.
♪ Is my child required to bring their own instrument to the classes or will the instruments be
provided?
Instruments and instruction are all included as part of the program free of charge. There are no additional fees
or materials necessary for students to participate.
♪ How much will it cost for my child to attend this program?
Absolutely Free!