Home Official News Releases Drake music school invites students of all ages, talents

Drake music school invites students of all ages, talents

MEDIA CONTACT: Tory Olson, 515-271-1834, tory.olson@drake.edu 

The Drake University Community School of Music (DUCSOM) is now taking applications for its 16-week fall session and programs, which begin Monday, Aug. 24. 

DUCSOM offers individual instruction for children and adults at all levels in piano, strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, harp, organ and music theory. Voice instruction is also available for participants who are 15 years and older. 

DUCSOM also offers music ensemble programs in addition to lessons:
  • Young Violinist program, for children ages 3-8 
  • Rising Stars Youth Show Choir, for students ages 6-12
  • New Strings Ensemble for high school musicians conducted by Akira Mori, assistant professor of music. Audition dates to be announced. 
In addition, the school is introducing three new programs for the fall:
  • Basic musicianship class, for middle and high school students
  • Pre-college theory and aural skills class, for high school students
  • Young Artist’s program
Fall semester tuition for individual lessons is $400 plus a $30 new student enrollment fee. Tuition costs for group instruction and ensembles vary by program.

Scholarships available for Des Moines youth musicians

DUCSOM is offering eight scholarships for the fall semester, which will reduce the cost of music instruction for middle and high school students. Eligible applicants are students who are enrolled in the Des Moines Public schools and who qualify for the free or reduced lunch program. 

Scholarship auditions will be held Saturday, Aug. 22, beginning at 9 a.m. in the Harmon Fine Arts Center, 2505 Carpenter Ave. Students will receive their audition times on a first-come, first-served basis after they submit a completed application. 

These financial need-based scholarships are available thanks to a partnership with Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino.

To apply for a scholarship or for more information about the Drake Community School of Music and registration, contact Director Christine Schneider at 515-271-4011 or christine.schneider@drake.edu.