The Music Clubhouse: An Innovative Arts Program for Instilling Confidence and Inspiring Creativity in Today's Teens

Few things excite teens as much as making music. However, developing a contemporary music program that engages them often remains a mystery. But what if there were a proven method for creating and sustaining a music program that reaches teens on their own terms?The authors had this vision in mind when they launched their first Music Clubhouse in 2004 in Lawrence Massachusetts. The professional staff filled the room with guitars, keyboards, drums, and the latest recording equipment, drawing teens in from the nearby community. Nearly twenty years later, this vision has expanded to 25 Music Clubhouses across America. Along the way, this vibrant program has provided thousands of teens, many of them underserved, with the opportunity to transform their lives through the magic of music making.“The Music Clubhouse” was written to inspire and guide others who want to create their own arts program for teens, whether it focuses on dance, visual arts, or music (or something else). In addition to detailing the specific steps to setting up a successful music program, the book offers dozens of candid interviews with teens and veteran Music Clubhouse staff.Engaging even the hardest to reach teens isn’t an impossible task. As “The Music Clubhouse” makes abundantly clear, you just need to hit the right notes.Q: Who is this book intended for?A: This book is intended for youth development professionals who want to provide music education for teens and want to attract teens through vibrant music programming that supports building academic and life skills, and the development of self-confidence and self-esteem.Q: Is this book only about music?A: No, this book is about using music as a vehicle for youth development. Its goal is to take “the mystery” out of creating and sustaining a music program that inspires personal growth.Q: How can music be used to engage and impact teen development?A: When done well, music programming is a magnet that attracts teens and keeps them coming back. This book provides concrete steps on how to think thro