What can I expect if I sign up?
You can expect to have fun playing music in a group, meet like-minded recreational musicians who have not played in a while, as well as folks who may not have as much time to make music as they like. You can expect to have high quality instruction, in a relaxed non-judgmental learning environment. You can expect to receive handouts/learning resources to help you "get your chops back". The rest is up to you. Note: this is not a gig.

What is the time commitment?
A sequential series of 6 or 7 workshops (between 2 and 3 hours long) on select Saturdays from July through September.

I am a beginner, can I participate?
Yes, as long as you have prior music-making experience for the instrument you are planning to play, you are eligible. The GYCB program is for adult non-professional musicians with prior music-making experience (basic skills) who have not made music in a while, or as often as they like. Typically, there are different skill levels within the group.

I don't have any music-making experience at all, can I still participate?
Sorry, no. If you have no music-making experience at all, you are not eligible for this program.

I will be 18 later this year, can I participate in GYCB?
Participants must be at least 18 years old before the first workshop date.

Can I sign up for more than one GYCB project?
Unfortunately, it is physically not possible as the workshops typically overlap each other on Saturdays.

What if I have to miss a workshop?
We know life/schedules can be unpredictable at times so missing one workshop is understandable. However, in a sequential workshop series, and in order to be fair and respectful to your fellow musicians, missing two workshops will mean that you will no longer be eligible to continue.

Do I bring my own instrument, music stand, etc.?
Yes, please bring everything you will need to make music with, including but not limited to...the instrument itself of course, music stand, pencil to jot down notes, etc. Chairs will be provided.

How much does it cost?
Cost is on a sliding scale, pay what you can.

If I sign up, can I bring my family/friends to watch me?
Sorry, no visitors. We have a strict policy - if you're in the room, you have to be an official participant.

I don't want to sign up, can I just come watch?
Sorry, no. We have a strict policy of no observers allowed.

Can you tell me more about the Open House?
The Open House is a "gathering and sharing" opportunity for all 3 GYCB project participants to share music with one another - this summer, the 3 projects happening around the city are: Afro-Cuban Jam in Downtown Los Angeles at the Ketchum-Downtown YMCA, Jazz Combo at the San Pedro & Peninsula YMCA, and Zydeco Boot Camp at the Music Center.

What is your refund policy?
Unfortunately, there are no refunds.

Other questions?
Please email activearts@musiccenter.org and we will respond within 48 hours.