AU to establish music academy for locals

Jan. 23—ANDERSON — It's never too late to learn to play an instrument.

Mike Snyder, a teacher at Liberty Christian School, said some parents of his elementary and high school students regret not pursuing instrumental music. As a result, he decided to do something about it.

The Madison County Community Orchestra, which Snyder directs, allows adults and those not in a music program to learn strings but not wind and percussion instruments.

He reached out to the Anderson University School of Music Theatre and Dance faculty and the two formed the "AU Music Academy."

The academy is an attempt at providing affordable music instruction to local residents.

It includes the Madison County Community Orchestra, Madison County Frets, a local guitar/ukulele club, and a wind/percussion group dubbed the "Madison County Symphonic."

Anyone 12 and older can participate in the symphonic group. The cost is $150 per semester. The current semester lasts from January to May after which there will be a summer hiatus. The fall semester will start in the middle of August.

Approximately 45 have signed up as of Monday, and 15 spots remain. The deadline is Jan. 29.

Participants will receive instruction from adjunct AU music professors and potentially students.

The organization can also help folks purchase or rent instruments. All they need to do is ask.

Follow Caleb Amick on Twitter @AmickCaleb. Contact him at caleb.amick@heraldbulletin.com or 765-648-4254.