OUR PROGRAMS
The Quest Center provides year-round music education & youth development programs for students grades 4-12 living in rural, lower-income communities, including at-risk youth and individuals living with disabilities. Unconditionally.
And we think we do a pretty good job. In fact, each year over 1,940 children participate in Quest Center programs, including over 425 enrolled in weekly music classes annually. Our >86% student retention rate, along with references and impact statements from parents and partners, support the success and impact of our programs.
In addition to learning to play music, our programs help children develop positive self- esteem, self-confidence, focus, discipline, social skills, collaboration skills and creative thinking skills - essential skills that help them improve their chances for success in school and prepare them to compete in the job market.
Our 5 focus areas:
Group music classes
Weekly group instrument classes & vocal conditioning programs offered unconditionally to children grades 4-12 living in rural, lower-income communities.
Extended education activities
We take students out of the classroom and connect them with the diversity of careers in music (technical, operational, business & creative), frequently with artists, producers, engineers and other industry professionals. Activities include music workshops, camps, live & radio performances, field trips and other music-related activities.
Enriching Lives Through Music
Weekly programs serving children & young adults living with disabilities, in partnership with the Arc Dickson County and Developmental Services of Dickson County.
music camps & workshops
Our annual series of music camps for children and youth focus on teamwork & creative thinking: collaborating, creating, arranging, recording and performing original content, often with professional artists, producers and engineers.
Pathway Youth leadership program
Our Pathway Program is a training & mentoring opportunity for Quest Center students to develop leadership, communication & engagement skills as paid Teaching Assistants in a live classroom environment.
The Quest Center is a unique community resource that unconditionally serves children & youth living in rural, lower-income communities. Our operating model helps ensure that our programs are accessible for all children, with minimal overhead expenses:
we unconditionally serve children grades 4-12, including individuals living with disabilities, with no pre-requisites. We serve all children.
we conduct classes at locations throughout the community, where children live and attend school, with focus on Title 1 elementary schools.
we teach music, music theory AND we leverage our relationships to expose students to the diversity of careers in music (creative, business, operational and technical).
we provide free use of instruments, both in-class and at home
our classes and music education programs are conducted year-round, often at times when children need structured activities most
our Pathway program provides a unique leadership opportunity for high-school and college students considering a career in music education
our students are expected to ‘give back,’ supporting school and community events through musical performance.
NO CHILD IS TURNED AWAY FOR FINANCIAL REASONS, BUT EVERYONE IS EXPECTED TO CONTRIBUTE.