Community
Music
Matters
Kids thrive when they're making music. They gain confidence. They build friendships. They develop the kind of resilience that shows up in every part of their lives. But music lessons shouldn't only be available to families with money to spend.
That's why we created Music Matters. This program opens music learning and enrichment to kids and teens in our community who'd otherwise miss out on these opportunities. Parent support at registration, combined with generous donors, sustains this program.
This year, we're reaching 100+ children and youth through approximately 700+ instructional hours. Everything we offer comes directly from what students and our community partners tell us they need. And we have a clear fundraising goal: $60,000 to make it all happen.
We know economic barriers, transportation challenges, and language differences keep too many kids out of music. And we think that's wrong. Every child deserves access to the transformative power of music learning, not just some kids.
That belief shapes everything we do. It's why we've built partnerships across our community. It's why we offer substantial financial aid. It's why we keep expanding programs that reach more families. Music isn't a luxury—it's part of what makes us human. And we're committed to making sure every kid in our region gets to experience it.
Currently, this program—under the direction of Community Engagement Coordinator Brenda Lau—partners with the Worcester Public Schools at Elm Park Community School and Worcester Dual Language Charter School, where both Brenda and ukulele faculty Stephanie Ochieng teach.
Afternoon
Tunes
Music lessons shouldn't be a luxury. Afternoon Tunes gives kids ages 5–15 free access to lessons, loaners instruments, and real mentorship every Friday afternoon. We've got piano, guitar, drums, saxophone, clarinet, flute, trumpet, and recorder instructors on staff.
High school student teachers run the program under the mentorship of director Nike Beaudry, with adult volunteers supporting on Friday afternoons. It's a real community in action.
How you can help: Know a kid who'd benefit? We're always looking for volunteer teachers, activity coordinators, and instrument donations. Reach out to Nike Beaudry.
Afternoon Tunes launched at All Saints in 2009 and moved to Pakachoag Music School in 2024. We're supported by the Rex L. Allison Educational Foundation.
Worcester
Winds
Worcester Winds is a dectet of musicians – teachers and professional performers –
based in Central Massachusetts.
Greater
Worcester
Community
Band
Played an instrument in high school? College? Your garage last month? The Greater Worcester Community Band wants you.
Pakachoag presents a new community band in Worcester, bringing local musicians together for two concerts a year (winter and spring). Seating auditions are necessary, but are very low-pressure. Rehearsals are generally on Tuesday evenings.
Led by conductor Craig Robbins, a native to Central Mass. and active music educator and performer, we're building something simple: a chance to make music with your neighbors, keep the chops in shape, and be part of something bigger for a few hours a week...and we'll always aim to delight the audience while offering a fulfilling playing experience.
Brass, woodwinds, and percussion are all needed; this is your moment.
Ready to play? Reach out below to learn more about rehearsal schedules and how to join.
Homeschool families love us because we get it: you need flexibility, space, and affordability. Whether you're scheduling one 30-minute lesson or a full afternoon of classes for multiple kids, Pakachoag is built for how homeschoolers work.
What we offer: Private lessons (early morning, mid-afternoon, and some mornings available). Group classes in world drumming, recorder, singing, guitar, ukulele, and music theory for middle/high school students. Free study space for siblings while lessons happen (with WiFi and a large monitor for remote learning if you need it).
Tuition assistance available. We know music lessons are an investment. If cost is a barrier, we've got support options. Just ask.
Ready to start? Fill out our lesson inquiry form and our Program Director will follow up with you. (You can use the form for group classes too.)