Children learning violin and piano in a small music classroom as part of Kidznotes Saturday Academy in Durham.
Featured State News

Kidznotes Saturday Academy Launches This Fall with Affordable Music Classes

@SpectacularMag Staff
Smiling girl playing violin, representing the type of joyful music education that Kidznotes Saturday Academy will provide for children ages 6–8 starting fall 2025.
A young violinist practices with joy and focus — the kind of experience Kidznotes Saturday Academy will soon bring to even more children in Durham this fall. (submitted)

Durham, NC — Kidznotes is expanding access to music education with the launch of its first-ever paid program, Kidznotes Saturday Academy, beginning this fall. The affordable music initiative will offer small-group violin, piano, percussion, and choir classes for children ages 6–8 on Saturday mornings at Fayetteville Street Elementary.

The program runs in 10-week sessions at just $35 per class, making quality music education accessible to more families while helping to fund free community programs that Kidznotes continues to provide.

Program Details

  • Fall Session: October 4 – December 13, 2025
  • Spring Session: January 10 – March 14, 2026
  • Location: Fayetteville Street Elementary School, Durham
  • Cost: $35 per class (10-week session); additional fees may apply
  • Class Size: Capped at 20 students per group to ensure personalized instruction

Why It Matters

Like many nonprofits, Kidznotes has been impacted by federal budget cuts in 2025. By introducing Saturday Academy, the organization aims to raise critical funding while providing young musicians with a foundation in music.

“Early music education can profoundly impact how children learn, socialize, and develop their brains,” said Dr. Thomas Howard, Jr., executive director of Kidznotes. “Our goal is to combine affordability with excellence, making sure children in Durham and beyond have access to the benefits of music education.”

Research shows early exposure to music strengthens social skills, builds confidence, and sharpens focus. In fact, 73% of Kidznotes students report that participating in the arts brings them joy—a powerful testament to the program’s impact.

About Kidznotes

Founded in Durham and rooted in the El Sistema model, Kidznotes empowers youth through music education, fostering personal growth, deepening community engagement, and driving social change. Its mission is to make high-quality music instruction accessible to all children, regardless of income.

For more details and registration, visit: Kidznotes Saturday Academy