Path 1

Music Appreciation

YMA begins with music appreciation designed to introduce students to easy musical activities while building self esteem. Instructor concerts, karaoke and jamming sessions allow students to enjoy instruments that do not require learning to play in a band (such as a cajon or bongos). Workshops teach students about the healing aspects of music and invite them into a future group lesson where instruments are provided.

Path 2

Group Music Classes

Path 2 leads students towards learning 1 instrument in a group class. They may choose between ukulele, guitar, piano, harmonica and voice. Instruments are provided at the lesson site which is held at a sponsored event location such as a community center, shelter or school. Students are invited to attend 6 weekly sessions to learn all about their instrument. Classes are given by professional teacher volunteers weekly in Albuquerque.

Path 3

Free Instruments

Path 3 rewards students that have attended 6 group lessons with their own instrument, lesson book and free membership to Sessions Academy, giving access to 1,500 video music lessons including band, orchestra and voice. Students may attend additional performance community classes and assist instructors in teaching and mentoring new students coming into the program. Instruments are available based on funding.

Program Details

The YMA program is offered to New Mexico residents beginning in 2022
YMA serves youth ages 13-18 that are not enrolled in a music program
Students may be referred to the program through youth and family centers
Examples of these include city/state programs, shelters, schools and churches
YMA relies on grant and donation funding keeping this program free to students

How you can help us in our mission

Sessions is looking for national & local grant opportunities to fund YMA
YMA is in need of several volunteer music instructors to lead group classes
Instrument donations are needed, guitars, ukuleles, pianos, harmonicas, music books...
Small group locations are needed to host group music lessons of 10-20 students weekly

YMA - Youth Music & Arts is a community-funded program offered through Sessions Academy. No student membership is required. Any donation of instruments or teaching funds are appreciated and will be used towards development of the YMA program locally in Albuquerque. YMA is a volunteer-based project interested in helping develop music skills and interest in conjunction with school and community-based youth programs. There is no guarantee that program resources such as instruments, books and lessons will be available at all times. Please review site terms and conditions for complete program details.