At Cadence, our programs are divided into the following categories:
Education
Youth Ensembles. Classes and Group Lessons (a.k.a. Group Programs)
Private Lessons & Audition/Role Coaching
Outreach
Including the Cadence Singers, Summer Camps, Senior Music Hour, Christmas Choral Fest, and more)
Advanced Performance
Vox Lucis Vocal Ensemble
Chor Ensemble
At Cadence, our goal is to provide excellent music & arts education that blends creative artistry, modern industry, and informative tradition into a well-rounded experience. To ensure that students receive the most effective instruction, ALL youth students are limited to taking two different types of private lessons.
We have designed Cadence so that students can either begin with us from their earliest ages and continue onward, or jump in and, with a little help, catch up to their peers. We use quarterly assessments to track student progress.
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Our comprehensive youth teaching track functions this way:
First Steps in Music 1 (Ages 2-3)
First Steps in Music 2 (Ages 3-4)
Joyful Noise 1 (Ages 5-7)
At this point, students could begin studying an instrument or voice, if they wish. Group lessons are encouraged for beginners, especially if they are unsure about the instrument they're studying.
Joyful Noise 2 (Ages 8-11) OR an ensemble such as a choir or a band
Music Appreciation/Middle School and High School General Music (Ages 12-14)
At this point, students could focus on their instrument at a higher level and/or commit to an age-appropriate ensemble or class, such as choir, band, or audio lab.
For those joining partway through this journey, we offer a variety of supplemental resources to help students catch up.
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Mid-August to Late-April
Most activities follow the academic calendar (scheduled breaks include Thanksgiving week, Christmas/New Year's weeks, & Spring Break).
Notable exceptions include our new Summer Camps, which run for one week each in June and July.
Students may begin private lessons at any time throughout the year if space is available. Tuition is based on a monthly membership, not on how many lessons or classes are provided in a given month.
Students may join group programs within the first three weeks of the fall or spring sessions.
Late April to Mid-August
Throughout the summer, students may enroll in à la carte lessons with a flexible schedule. Information for summer lessons is announced in March.
Students may also participate in one of our week-long Summer Camps.
Effective June 1st, 2026, for New Members
Tuition varies by location. Tuition is quoted individually for each family based on the number of programs they wish to join.
For a general idea of costs, please visit the Locations Page. From there, you may request a quote.
Private Instruction Books - as directed by your instructor, usually no more than $10-20
Polos - New Students must purchase a Cadence polo for our events and performances. - $20 each (one-time purchase)
Sheet Music Fees - as determined by your instructor. Usually between $10-$30 per family per semester.
Invoices may be paid between the 1st and 8th of each month. Invoices that are not paid by the 8th may be subject to a $30 late fee and/or suspension of service. (Please reach out to us if there is a financial hardship. We may be able to find sponsors.)
We encourage all families to enroll in autopay online.
FAQ
Q: What should students expect from Cadence?
A: Students should expect to learn about music in a fun and engaging environment. Students should expect to be challenged and encouraged to explore their creative side. Rehearsals, classes, and lessons are designed with this objective: to provide practical performance experience and opportunities.
Q: What does Cadence expect from members?
A: Cadence expects all members to bring their most positive attitude, enthusiasm, and focus to all activities. Respect for others, kindness, and consistent effort are crucial to the success of our mission.
Q: What kind of commitment am I making?
A: For all lessons, classes, and ensembles, you are making a financial and time commitment from Mid-August to mid-May. If you cannot commit to the lesson schedule, weekly practice, and the scheduled performances, your experience will not be as rewarding as it can be.
Q: How should I communicate with Cadence?
A: For last-minute emergencies: emailing service@cmaprograms.ngo.
A: For communication with instructors or staff, use the "Client Comments" section on your Opus.io dashboard.
Q: Safety and Clearances?
A: All our staff, instructors, & volunteers are required to maintain up-to-date PA Abuse Clearances and undergo background checks. We place student safety and teacher accountability as the most important goals.
Q: How do I pay?
A: With cash, check, or through our online portal. We encourage families to set up autopay through the portal if they are paying monthly.
Q: Regarding the choirs, will singers have an opportunity for a solo?
A: Occasionally, we will program music that includes one or more solos. The director will hold auditions and select a singer based on that singer’s ability to perform that solo.