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. Classes consist of up to 10 students and last for 8-10 weeks. They meet once per week for a one hour lesson. Level 1 lessons are for beginners; Level 2 are geared to the student's skills. Our goal is to run Level 1 and Level 2 once per quarter; doing so is dependent on teacher and student availability.

Students are loaned a guitar to use for the Level 1 class. Once they complete the Level 1 class they are awarded that guitar 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 try to set up extra help on the day’s in-between for those students who may need it. We also try to set up activities between class sessions 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; especially ones that do not offer music and need more program to attract additional youth 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 is done by GnG volunteers or in cooperation with the partnering organization. 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.