Programs – Ellis Marsalis Center for Music

The Ellis Marsalis Center for Music delivers a broad range of services to underserved children, youth, adults, and musicians, many of whom are from neighborhoods battling poverty and social injustice.

Designed under the guidance of our namesake, Ellis Marsalis, Jr., our programs leverage music as a catalyst for social change, offering a safe and supportive environment where young people can develop musically, academically, and socially.

Read on to learn more about how we serve our students and our city!

Youth Programs

At the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music, we believe in music’s power to transform young lives. We see music lessons and arts education as tools that help young people learn dedication and collaboration and allow them to explore their creativity.

We offer holistic, world-class arts programming to any child who wants to learn—regardless of ability to pay. Fall, spring, and summer sessions include four elements. At just $30 per student per session, our students have access to these exceptional programs and many other benefits! We offer scholarships to support students facing challenges, guaranteeing all kids have access to a high-quality music education.

MUSIC EDUCATION

Our youth music education program offers after-school programming, Saturday classes, and summer sessions to students ages 8 to 18. All students learn piano and music theory in addition to instruction in a primary instrument of their choice, which we supply. Disciplines include strings, percussion, bass, guitar, brass, woodwinds, dance, and vocals.

MUSIC TECHNOLOGY

Thanks to Apple, Inc.’s generous support, all EMCM students take classes introducing them to music technology. Using the latest hardware and software, our students explore exciting STEM and music technology pathways, important steps toward closing digital learning gaps.

Our music production and audio engineering classes are offered to students ages 13 and up. Music production students learn basic music technology using software including Garage Band and Logic Pro X. Audio engineering students have a unique opportunity to learn the elements of live sound, studio recording, and communications skills, which will prepare them for the City’s bustling cultural economy.

Two children standing next to a box full of milk cartons.

HEALTHY HABITS AND ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT

As part of our commitment to nurturing students’ overall well-being, the Center offers wrap-around services. Through our “Healthy Habits” initiative, students can access behavioral and mental health counseling, as well as nutritious meals and snacks that contribute to their mental and physical wellness.

Within our academic enrichment program, we offer educator-led homework assistance throughout the school year and engage students in reading and math activities during the summer to ensure their readiness for the upcoming school year.

SESSION SCHEDULE

REGISTER

Audio Engineering Program

The Center offers hands-on training in the fundamentals of audio engineering, giving students the opportunity to learn the technical aspects of live sound set-up, such as microphone placement, monitor settings, live sound mixing, and stage set-up. Students also have hands-on training in our recording studio learning: signal flow, audio patch bay, and audio mixing on our state-of-the-art console.

Participants also learn studio management, studio protocols, client relations, session setup, and the interpersonal skills necessary to run a successful recording session.

High school juniors and seniors are encouraged to register for the Audio Engineering course offered in the fall, spring, and summer.

Register

Four adults wearing headphones and playing electronic pianos.

Adult Programs

It’s never too late to reconnect with your talent or make music a part of your life! The Center is offers adult piano classes to community members on Saturdays during our Spring and Fall sessions. Lessons cost $10/month ($5/month for Musicians’ Village residents) and require a book you can purchase from the Center for $22.50. For more information, please fill select the button below.

MORE INFORMATION

Community Programs

The Center regularly opens its doors to the community for opportunities like holiday events, music business courses, computer literacy classes, and resume-building workshops. If you want to be informed of future community offerings and opportunities, join our mailing list, and follow us on social media!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR MAILING LIST

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Frequently ASKED Questions

How do I know if my child is eligible to enroll?

Students must be at least eight years old and no older than 18. No prior musical experience is required. Enrollment is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

EMCM proudly serves the Ninth Ward and surrounding communities. Students living in Musicians’ Village and the following zip codes are given priority registration: 70117, 70126, 70127, 70128, 70129, 70032, and 70122.

Students living outside of these areas may contact the Center to determine eligibility.

How much does it cost to enroll my child in the music program?

The registration fee for the Spring, Summer, and Fall programs is $30.00 per student per semester.

What form of payment do you take?

The Center accepts cash, credit cards, and money orders. Money orders are payable to EMCM or Ellis Marsalis Center for Music. We do not take personal checks.

Does my child need prior musical training or experience to participate?

No. The Ellis Marsalis Center for Music accepts students at all levels of musical ability.

Do you require students to be vaccinated?

EMCM follows the vaccine guidelines established by NOLA Public Schools and requires students to be in compliance with school district regulations, which include proof of a COVID-19 vaccination. In alignment with NOLA Public Schools, EMCM families may now claim a COVID-19 vaccine exemption for medical, philosophical, or religious purposes. If you would like to request a COVID-19 exemption, please provide us with a copy of your approved exemption from the school district with your registration form.

How can I get more information or ask a specific question?

For more information, please call us at 504-940-3400 or email us at emcm@ellismarsaliscenter.org.

REGISTER HERE

SPRING/SUmmer 2025 SESSION SCHEDULE

May 26

Memorial Day (No Classes)

May 27

Summer Session Begins

June 19

Juneteenth (No Classes)

July 3

Summer Recital, 10:00am
Last Day of Summer Classes

July 4

Independence Day (No Classes)

July 14

Fall Enrollment Begins

August 18

Fall Session Begins

August 29

Fall Enrollment Ends

September 1

Labor Day (No Classes)

October 31

Halloween (No Classes)

November 3

Spring Enrollment Begins

November 24-29

Thanksgiving break (No Classes)

December 3

Last Day of Fall Classes

December 4

Weekday Classes Recital
5:30PM

December 6

Community Breakfast 8:30AM
Saturday Classes Recital
10:00AM