Our Program

 

GnG conducts an after-school music program for youth ages 10-18; children as young as 8 may be accepted if they have the maturity to learn how to play guitar; older students may be accepted if they are completing their high school education. GnG classes consist of up to 10 students and last for 8 weeks. They meet once per week for a one hour lesson. The Level 1 classes are for beginners; Level 2 classes are follow-on instruction geared to the student's skills. Our goal is to run one 8 session class per quarter; both Level 1 and Level 2. We recognize that the summer quarter may be a problem and some classes will not be held.

 

Students are loaned a guitar to use for the Level 1 class. Once they complete the Level 1 class they are awarded the guitar; it is theirs to keep. Students are encouraged to continue with the classes for as long as they need. Over time the more advanced students can serve as assistant teachers for the beginners.

 

In addition to the weekly class lessons we set up extra help on the day’s in-between for those students who may need it. We also set up activities between class sessions (8 week period) to sustain the student’s interest. When possible we schedule jam sessions, help sessions, and set up mentoring events like a trip to a music store, concert, recording studio, etc.

 

GnG partners with other organizations that serve the same youth demographic; specially ones that do not offer music and need more program to attract additional young people and/or retain the ones they have. Our partners include Boys and Girls Clubs, Community Centers, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, subsidized housing complexes, special needs schools and Government foster care agencies.

 

Student selection can be done solely by GnG volunteers or in cooperation with the partnering organizations. Since the partnering organizations are already serving the same demographic, it is often more efficient for them to recommend students based on our criteria. Students are screened by GnG volunteers to make sure they are serious about learning; understand the rules and our program; and have a parent or guardian who’ll support them and encourage them to practice.