Adult Programs

Music Just for Adults

You're never too old to learn! Whether you've always wanted to play, are ready to dust off an old instrument, have been a musician for years, or just want to join us in the audience, NISOM has an adult program for you!

Browse programs for other age groups: Kids age 3-9 | Tweens & Teens | College

Private Lessons

Learn one-on-one with an instructor

Private lessons are a wonderful way to begin music instruction or improve your skill. No experience or audition is required. Lessons are offered year-round; begin at any time! Trial periods and short-term lessons are available.

Lessons are available in piano, voice, guitar, composition, and band & orchestra instruments.

Learn more about Private Lessons or Browse Faculty by Instrument

Also see: Registration | Tuition | Policies | Calendar | FAQ

Group Classes

Learn in an engaging atmosphere with a small group of adults

NISOM offers group classes just for adults, with discounts for senior citizens. Keep your brain engaged and reap the benefits of music education in a social setting! Choose a pre-scheduled class like adult piano or schedule your own class with friends. Group classes are a great way to try an instrument or return to an old one. No experience is necessary unless otherwise specified. Three sessions of classes are offered during the school year, as well as a summer session. Classes may vary each session.

For more information see:

Class Schedules & Information  |  Class Policies

Adult Ensembles

NISOM offers two non-auditioned adult performance ensembles. Both groups welcome new members and give public concerts.

Dubuque Community String Orchestra (DCSO)

Directed by Rebecca Payne for adult string players of all ages. DCSO was founded by Tracey Rush and is Dubuque's-own! Learn more about DCSO
 

New Horizons Band (NHB)

Directed by Glenn Pohland for adults age 50 and up. NHB is part of the international organization New Horizons Music. Learn more about NHB
 

Concerts & Events

NISOM holds a variety of public events and concerts each year including ensemble performances, student recitals, and special performances by guest artists (such as the audience favorite ChamberFest Dubuque Gala with Michael Gilbertson and friends). Whether you are a musician looking get inspired or a music lover looking for a great way to spend an afternoon or evening, NISOM has ample concert-going opportunities, many of which are free!

See all Upcoming Events

Scholarship Program

Need-Based Financial Assistance

NISOM offers need-based financial assistance for students of all ages in private lessons, group classes, ensembles, and workshops. Please submit your scholarship application before you plan to register for the program.

Learn more

Why Music?

Physical and Mental Health Benefits

Studies show music and music education can have a profound impact on students of all ages, like helping prevent hearing loss in adults!

- Music can play a role in healthy aging, mentally, emotionally, and even physically.

- Even if you've never played an instrument you can start reaping the benefits of music education.

- Swedish researchers have found that singing in a choir has a positive effect on the heart.

- The 1999 NAMM-funded Music Making and Wellness project found that seniors who participated in group music lessons reported significantly decreased feelings of depression, anxiety and loneliness.

- A study at Northwestern University showed adults with music experience had "more robust" brain stem response, which improves memory, listening, reading, and more.

Learn more about the benefits of music for all ages