Jam Club
An inclusive music-making and music education program for neurodivergent and disabled kids, teens, and young adults.
Program Status
Jam Club is currently on hold while MVYSO searches for a qualified music therapist.
What is Jam Club?
Jam Club is a community music-making and music education group where students participate in ensemble music activities while building social, leadership, teamwork, and self-expression skills through music.
Students participate in activities that may include: group music-making, rhythm activities, movement to music, songwriting, improvisation, cooperative music activities.
All support needs, learning styles, and communication preferences are welcome.
Typical Jam Club Session
Welcome & Arrival: Students are welcomed by staff and Music Buddies.
Hello Song: Group musical welcome activity.
“How Ya Doing Today”: Music-based opportunities for individual self-expression.
Group Improvisation Time: Students participate individually, in pairs, or in small groups using rhythm instruments, scarves, or parachute activities paired with music.
Basic Music Education: Students learn basic rhythms, tones, and techniques that can be applied in group activities.
Cooperative Music Making: Students use instruments such as boomwhackers, hand chimes, and percussion instruments to perform together as an ensemble. Students may also prepare music to perform alongside MVYSO’s Symphony Orchestra.
Goodbye Song
Closing group activity.
Why Jam Club?
Music Therapy-Based Design:
Jam Club was originally designed by a Music Therapist and Recreation Therapist to help students work toward social and musical goals through music.
Social Connections Through Music:
Music activities are designed to help students connect with peers while participating in collaborative activities.
Music Buddies Program:
Jam Club students work alongside trained student musicians from MVYSO’s orchestra programs who participate as Music Buddies.
Creative Self-Expression:
Students of many ability levels are able to participate and express themselves through music.
Tuition & Support
Private Pay Tuition: $805 (January–May)
DDA Rate: Classes may be billed at the current allowed DDA rate.
Prorated tuition is available for students starting after January.
Tuition assistance is available.
MVYSO’s Jam Club is a DDA-approved respite activity, and tuition may be covered for qualifying students.
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“…My daughter adores music! She is learning beats, rhythms, and new songs as she is playing on musical instruments and equipment. She enjoys the fun atmosphere and the positive way they teach the class. The MVYSO Christmas concert, which Jam Club is invited to participate in, is an event that she really looks forward to and wants her family attend in order to watch her perform on stage. She has made good friends with the other children and looks forward to attending each week.”
— Deborah Sweeney
What is a Music Buddy?
Music Buddies are MVYSO student musicians who volunteer to assist with Jam Club activities.
Music Buddies participate in activities alongside students while encouraging participation, assisting with activities, and helping create a welcoming environment.
Minimum Requirements
Age 14 and older
Willing and flexible attitude
Time Commitment: Music Buddies volunteer approximately one hour each week.
Typical Responsibilities
Assist with setup and welcoming students
Participate in music activities
Encourage student participation
Support students during transitions and activities
Maintain a positive and encouraging environment
Assist the Music Therapist as needed