Launch Lessons

Leveling the playing field for students of color by providing access to private lessons.

Studying with a private teacher is an important way for young musicians to develop their musical skills, stay motivated, and grow as individual and orchestral players.

Launch Lessons provides 10 free, one-on-one lessons for Hispanic/Latinx and Black/African American students with financial need and a strong desire to pursue orchestral music. GTCYS matches each participant with a high-quality private instructor and covers the full cost of weekly lessons.

At the end of the program, students are expected to audition for one of GTCYS’ 11 school-year orchestras. If the student is placed into an orchestra, tuition assistance is available, and students can continue private lessons.

Applications for Summer 2026 are open! Apply by April 22.

Who is Launch Lessons For?

• Student identifies as Hispanic/Latinx or Black/African American.
• Student lives in Ramsey, Washington, or Dakota counties.
• Student is in grades 2–11.
• Student is not currently taking private lessons.
• Student participates in their school band or orchestra program and plays one of the following instruments:

• • Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass
  • Woodwinds: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon
  • Brass: French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba
  • Percussion: Snare Drum, Bells, Bass Drum, Cymbals, etc.

• Family has financial need. No documentation is required for this program.
• Student and family can commit to weekly private lessons, which include the following responsibilities:
  • Transportation to/from lessons
  • Consistent weekly attendance
  • Regular at-home practice (6–7 days per week)
  • Ongoing communication with teacher, including giving the teacher at least 48 hours’ notice of a cancellation

For students who don’t meet these specific parameters, GTCYS offers other forms of tuition and private lesson assistance.

How To Apply

Applications for Summer 2026 are now open! Families with students who meet the qualifications below can apply by April 22, and a GTCYS staff member will reach out with the results of the application by April 30.

Application Timeline

• April 22: Application deadline
• May 18: Weekly lessons begin
• Early August: Audition video due
• September 2026: Orchestra participation begins! Lessons may continue if families qualify for need-based financial assistance.

Apply for Launch Lessons

Questions? Email Miranda Bryan at miranda@gtcys.org.