Business Details
20 Years
experience
Your Trusted Music Education & Therapy Partner in Fort Collins
Since 2006, we have dedicated ourselves to empowering individuals through accessible music education and therapy. Our mission centers on making music a transformative force for all, regardless of age, ability, or financial circumstance. With over 600 in-house students weekly and extensive outreach programs serving an additional 1,000 individuals, we combine personalized instruction with community-focused initiatives.Our team of certified educators and therapists delivers programs ranging from early childhood music to advanced instrumental training, supported by a scholarship system that ensures affordability. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we maintain deep partnerships with local organizations to expand our impact while upholding rigorous professional standards in both education and therapeutic practice.
Services
Private Lessons
Music Therapy
Group Classes
Summer Camps
Scholarship Programs
Outreach Programs
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer need-based scholarships covering up to 100% of program costs
- Our faculty includes board-certified music therapists and specialized instructors
- We serve over 1,600 individuals weekly through in-house and outreach programs
- We maintain partnerships with local school districts and community organizations
- Our nonprofit status ensures community-focused programming and affordability
What people say
Life-changing programs
Affordable pricing
Skilled instructors
Developmental progress
Inclusive environment
Services
Music Therapy
Our board-certified therapists use music interventions to address physical, emotional, and cognitive needs. Programs target speech development, motor skills, and social interaction through evidence-based techniques. Sessions are tailored for individuals with autism, developmental delays, and other special needs.
Private Lessons
Customized instruction available for piano, guitar, voice, strings, and percussion. Lessons adapt to each student's learning style and pace, with options for all skill levels from beginner to advanced musicians. Our instructors combine technical training with creative expression.
Group Classes
Interactive classes for children and adults focusing on rhythm, instrument basics, and collaborative music-making. Family Music and Preschool programs develop early childhood musical foundations. Group settings encourage peer learning while maintaining individual progress tracking.
Summer Camps
All-day programs combining instrumental instruction, vocal training, and performance preparation. Camps include themed sessions like Rock Revival and Mariachi, culminating in showcase performances. Designed for skill development and creative exploration in a collaborative environment.
Outreach Programs
We partner with local schools and organizations to deliver music education where it's needed most. Programs include the Poudre School District Early Childhood Music Therapy Program and specialized classes for teen parents and individuals with disabilities. These initiatives extend our mission of music accessibility.
People
Stephen Brackett
Executive Director
Stephen leads our strategic vision and operations, bringing years of nonprofit management experience. He oversees program development and community partnerships while maintaining our financial sustainability. His leadership ensures we stay true to our mission of accessible music education.
Nicole Wilshusen
Assistant Director
Nicole manages daily operations and instructional staff. As a board-certified music therapist, she designs therapeutic programs and ensures educational quality across all departments. Her clinical background informs our approach to both therapy and educational services.
Claudia Vaccaro
Music Therapist
Claudia specializes in therapeutic interventions for children with developmental challenges. She implements individualized treatment plans using music-based techniques to improve communication and motor skills. Her work contributes to our reputation for effective, compassionate therapy services.
Dawson Dowdy
Piano Teacher
Dawson provides piano instruction tailored to each student's learning style. He combines classical training with contemporary approaches to maintain student engagement. His teaching philosophy emphasizes technical mastery alongside musical creativity.
Karmen Mitchell
Music Therapist & Violin Teacher
Karmen delivers both therapeutic services and violin instruction. She integrates therapeutic goals with instrumental training for students with special needs. Her dual expertise enables holistic approaches to music education and therapy.
Questions
Do you offer financial assistance for music lessons?
Yes, we provide need-based scholarships covering up to 100% of program costs. Complete our application form and we'll contact you within days with a decision.
What age groups do your programs serve?
We offer programs for infants through adults. Our Family Music classes start at 6 months old, with age-appropriate instruction available for every developmental stage.
Are music therapy services covered by insurance?
While we don't bill insurance directly, some providers may offer reimbursement. Check with your insurance company about out-of-network therapy benefits and we'll provide necessary documentation.
How do I register for summer music camps?
Registration opens July 28th annually through our website. Camps fill quickly, so we recommend registering early for preferred session dates and program types.
What instruments can I learn at Foundation Music School?
We offer instruction in piano, guitar, voice, strings, and percussion. Our faculty specializes in adapting teaching methods to each instrument while maintaining technical excellence.
Do you provide instruments for lessons or therapy sessions?
We maintain a selection of instruments for classroom use and therapy sessions. For private lessons, students typically bring their own instruments, though we can provide limited loaner options.
Reviews (5)
Nathan Beers
Apr 28, 2021
Report
I Am More Into Guitar Lessons Than Piano Lessons Because I Am Gonna Use A Fender Acoustic Guitar With A Harley Davidson Guitar Pick When I Was 13 I Found Out That Guitar Piano And Violin Lessons Are For All Ages I Also Found Enrique's Replacement That Will Take Enrique's Place Called Damien Moore From My ARO Trips I Told Besa Roxy Dylan And Brandon That I Said This Is Damien He's Replacing Enrique I Was Also A Heavy Cigarette Smoker From 2007-2020 Before I Quit Cause of Coronavirus Disease
Gena Magill
Oct 16, 2019
Report
My two children have attended family music and various music makers classes at Foundation Music School for nearly 3 years. Music class is consistently the highlight of each week. The teachers are not just talented musicians but are some of the best educators we have encountered. This school is one of the best things about Fort Collins.
Jenny Wilcock
Nov 21, 2018
Report
Foundation Music School is fantastic! The lessons for my 19 month old grandson are perfectly planned and age appropriate. His teacher Nicole has the ideal balance of activities to keep little children involved. As a retired teacher of young children, I couldn't be happier!
Nicole Booker Reynolds
Jun 15, 2016
Report
My children love the family music classes and now the mini-camps! Quality programs, dedicated teachers and great value! They are the first community activities we recommend to all our friends!!
Ashley M.
Sep 16, 2014
Report
My daughter loves music class! She always has fun. Every detail about the process, what they sing/play, how the class is structured and more are thoughtfully planned. I recommend Foundation Music School to everyone with kids.
