NAMM believes that music and the arts are vital to every child's education, and our commitment to traditional in-school music programs is unwavering. However, every afternoon millions of students across the country are dismissed from school–and what they do upon dismissal can be cause for anxiety for their working parents.

Quality after-school programs offer a positive outlet for these students by providing safe, engaging environments that motivate and inspire learning after the school bell rings.

“Music is self-knowledge: a way to keep me on track and learn more. Music is a gateway to self-discovery.”

a 17-year-old music maker

As the “recess-like” after-school environment is completely different from the structured school environment, many after-school music programs differ from traditional music instruction.

NAMM has created this resource in the hope of providing insight to these basic differences while giving you and your organization a concrete example of what a successful after-school music program may look like. We’ve also included resources, such as after-school music-making program materials, basic instrument lists, partner organizations and a direct link to a knowledgeable representative at NAMM to help you get started.

Why is music important in youth development and after-school programs?