Young Musicians Get "Tuned Up"
Friendship House neighbors earn free guitar lessons - and free guitars
One said he wanted to become a rock star. Another said she had always wanted to play the guitar. All of them spoke of their love of music.
Five middle school students - Shelby Bailey, Tanner Bailey, TyQuail Branford, Gabby Gamboa, and C.J. Valdez - recently completed a special music program that allows them to learn the guitar at no financial cost to the student.. Through the "Tuned Up" program, students receive free guitar lessons and practice guitars for a three month series of classes. If they successfully complete the program, they are allowed to keep the guitars.
"Tuned Up" was led by volunteer Jesse Bruton, who said the idea for the class was brought to him by former CCC board member Bob Frieberg. "Bob knew about a similar program called 'Noteworthy,' which he thought would be a great thing to offer at the Friendship House," said Bruton. "We then developed this program to fit our needs." The program was funded by Beltway Park Baptist Church, where Bruton serves as Life Group Pastor.
Each of the students in the program had to complete an application, which included a statement about why he or she wanted to learn to play the guitar, along with a promise to attend all class sessions and maintain personal practice time. The lessons were held at the College Heights Friendship House. The class sessions included a weekly Bible study.
At the end of the course, students participated in a recital concert which was held at Beltway Park. The church's worship band accompanied the students during their recital program, which was followed by a brief reception. Each student received a certificate of completion.
Bruton says he hopes to be able to offer the class again this fall, if there is sufficient interest. Students from the North Park or College Heights neighborhoods should contact the Friendship House for more information.