PEAK MUSIC PROGRAMS
Music Programs for All Ages in Stowe, VT
Playing music together is where students truly grow—and have the most fun doing it. At Peak Music, our ensemble programs combine weekly group rehearsals with private lessons, giving students the tools to develop their skills and the experience of playing in a real band. Every season ends with a public showcase—and not just anywhere. Our students have performed onstage at amazing local venues like Stowe Cider, The Phoenix Gallery, River Arts, and Soulmate Brewing. It’s a chance to feel the energy of a real show, celebrate progress, and share the moment with family and friends.
Our Foundations of Music classes are the perfect entry point for beginners, offering a hands-on introduction to rhythm, melody, and core musical skills—no experience needed.
And for students who want to focus on their own growth or sharpen their skills before stepping into a band, we also offer standalone private lessons for all ages and levels.
Program Descriptions
Private Lessons
Ages 5+ · All levels
One-on-one instruction tailored to each student’s goals, experience, and learning style. Private lessons are available for all ages and instruments, and can be taken on their own or alongside a group class or ensemble. Students develop strong foundational skills, refine technique, explore improvisation and grow at their own pace. LEARN MORE
Foundations of Music
Ages 6–8 · No experience required
Foundations of Music 1 introduces young students to the basics of rhythm, melody, harmony, and musical creativity. Through call and response, movement, and group activities, students develop listening skills and are introduced to improvisation in a playful, accessible way. They explore a variety of instruments—including drums, keyboards, ukulele, and singing—building musical confidence and preparing for continued growth in Foundations Ensemble or private lessons. LEARN MORE
Foundations Ensemble
Ages 7–11 · Prerequisite: Foundations of Music and/or 6+ months of private lesson experience
Foundations Ensemble is the first step into real group performance. Students learn to follow a director, listen to their bandmates, and explore the basics of improvisation—all while preparing for a fun, low-pressure public show at the end of the season. It’s often the first time music feels real and shared, and students quickly discover how rewarding it is to show up for each other and create something together. Weekly private lessons are included to support each student’s musical growth. Lessons focus on building core skills and giving students the time and attention they need to feel confident with their parts in rehearsal. LEARN MORE
Base Ensemble
Ages 9–14 · Prerequisite: 1–2 seasons of Foundations Ensemble or approval from music director
Base Ensemble is where students start to take more ownership of the band experience. Rehearsals emphasize full arrangements, improvisation, performance skills, and group cohesion—everything aimed at preparing for a live public show at the end the season. Students are encouraged to bring more energy and focus as they step into more challenging musical roles. Alongside rehearsals, students continue private lessons to reinforce technique and work through ensemble material. This one-on-one time helps bridge the gap between learning and performing, and keeps students progressing at their own pace. LEARN MORE
Peak Ensemble
Ages 12–17 · Prerequisite: Base Ensemble or approval of music director
Peak Ensemble is for advanced students ready to play at a high level. The group tackles complex material across genres—Funk, Jazz, Rock, and more—while building tight ensemble chemistry and preparing a full set for a live performance. Students help shape the repertoire and are expected to contribute as creative, reliable members of a working band. In addition to the main performance each season, Peak Music will seek out pop-up gigs and community events to give the group more real-world experience. The band serves as the public face of our youth program—representing Peak Music in the broader community and serving as role models for younger students. Private lessons remain a vital part of the experience, offering space to refine technique, dig into improvisation, and stay on top of challenging ensemble parts. LEARN MORE
Summer Camps
Ages 6–14 · Weekly sessions June 23 – August 16
Peak Music offers three unique summer camps tailored to different ages and experience levels. Foundations Camp (ages 6–9) introduces music through games, rhythm, and fun. Ensemble Camp (ages 8–14) is a band-based camp for students with at least one year of experience. Creative Composition Camp (ages 9–14) focuses on songwriting, recording, and releasing original music with peers. Camps run Monday–Friday, 9:30am–3:00pm, and end with a performance or listening party on the final day. LEARN MORE
Adult Ensemble
Ages 18+ · All experience levels welcome
A relaxed, supportive band program for adult musicians who want to play, collaborate, and perform. Whether you're dusting off your instrument or playing regularly, you'll rehearse with others, get expert coaching, and prepare songs for a fun live showcase. All instruments and experience levels welcome. LEARN MORE
Program Pricing
| Program | Private Lesson | Group Class | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundations of Music | n/a | 45 minutes | $37.50/week |
| Foundations Ensemble | 30 minutes | 60 minutes | $85/week |
| Base Ensemble | 45 minutes | 75 minutes | $115/week |
| Peak Ensemble | 45 minutes | 90 minutes | $120/week |
| Adult Ensemble | Optional | 120 minutes | $30/week |
| Private Lessons Only | 30 minutes | n/a | $50/week |
| Private Lessons Only | 45 minutes | n/a | $73/week |
Important Notes:
Private lessons are required for all youth ensemble students.
Foundations of Music classes do not require a private lesson, but students are encouraged to eventually matriculate into private instruction as they grow.
Private lessons can also be added at any time to support individual progress.
Tuition includes all performance opportunities and materials needed for group rehearsals.