Student and Family FAQ

How did the program start?
The program started 17 years ago at Leschi Elementary, when a mother of two Garfield students noticed the lack of diversity in the Garfield band and orchestra classes. With the help of the Leschi principal and several parents, she created the free after-school program you know today! See our “History” page to learn more.
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Which schools does SMP serve?
Our four current schools are Leschi Elementary, Lowell Elementary, Bailey Gatzert Elementary, and Madrona Elementary. Our program is available on-site at each location. We also host an evening ensemble program for middle school-aged SMP alumni at the Garfield Community Center called the Middle School Music Project.

What is an SMP student's main goal in this program?
​The main goal of participating in SMP is to learn how to play a musical instrument and read music, and to develop meaningful relationships with their fellow SMP students, their tutors, and their Teaching Artists. 

What is the time commitment for this program?
​SMP takes place two afternoons a week (one group day, one tutor day). Students who sign up for SMP are expected to attend both days of program every week for the entire school year (October to June). For a list of exact days at each school, visit our Schools We Serve page.

How qualified are the group instructors?
The group instructors ("Teaching Artists") are all highly qualified, each with multiple years of teaching experience. Teaching Artists are selected based on an application and interview process.
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How qualified are the one-on-one instructors? 
The one-on-one instructors ("tutors") in our program are volunteers who are highly skilled musicians with little to no teaching experience. Throughout the year we provide weekly trainings on music instruction, youth development, and social justice to help them develop their teaching skills. Our volunteers are primarily high school-aged.

How are the tutors chosen and vetted?
All volunteers submit a volunteer application to SMP. The application process includes a background check, 2 recommendations, and a personal essay. 

How much practice time is expected?
We expect students to practice for at least 10 minutes every day.

What happens if my student forgets to bring an instrument to school on an SMP? Can they still attend SMP that day?
Students should always attend SMP even if they forget to bring an instrument. We keep a small inventory of loaner instruments at each school to ensure that students are able to participate in these cases. That being said, it is our expectation that families will help students remember to bring their instruments and music books to their lessons.

Can my student switch instruments in the middle of the school year?
​Students cannot switch instruments at any point in the school year after they've been paired with a tutor. However, they are welcome to switch if they return to SMP for a second year. 

What steps are taken to help students improve on their instruments?
​We use group lessons to introduce students to new musical concepts. We use one-on-one lessons to help reinforce those concepts and help students build their individual techniques. One-on-one instructors assign practice plans to students each week.

How much does the program cost?
​The program is 100% free of cost. We also provide free transportation, instruments, and supplies to those who need it.

When do students receive their instruments after signing up?
Students who successfully apply will receive an instrument from SMP shortly after the program begins. If your student is enrolled in the in-school music program, they will likely receive the instrument from Seattle Public Schools. The programs begin at roughly the same time, which is in October. 

​Participating Schools
​Resources for Families​​