

Current Classes
Ages 10-Adult
Drumming FUNdamentals
Ages 5-9
Music & Me (Ages 5-9)
Movement &Music (Ages 5-9)
Intro to Acting (Ages 8&9)
Recorder Kids (Ages 8&9)
2025-2026 Class Catalog
Classes 2025-2026 School Year
Beginning Band

Beginning Band
Teacher: Malcolm Peterson
12:05pm-1:00pm Thursdays, 55 minutes
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 10-Adult
Open to Adults that have a student in the program.
This class is for anyone with little to no experience in music and who wants to learn a Wind instrument. The recommended instruments are Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet, Trombone, and percussion; you may choose another instrument, but these are recommended for beginners. We will learn the basic foundations of wind playing. This class meets for one a hour a week, and practice at home is required.
REQUIRED BOOK:
Essential Elements for Band Book 1 - for your particular instrument.
Get the book for your particular instrument. Books are available on Amazon.
For instrument rentals I recommend Bellingham WindWorks.
Note: 9 year olds may join Beginning Band if they can
*Play the B Scale
*Play 4/4, 3/4, 2/4 time
*Play whole notes, half notes, quarter notes & eighth notes.
*Have also taken previous lessons on their instrument.
Yearlong Class
Beginning Strings

Beginning Strings
Teacher: Sharyn Peterson
9:00am-9:55am Thursdays, 55 minutes
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 10-Adult
Open to Adults that have a student in the program.
This class is for anyone with little to no experience in music and who wants to learn a stringed instrument. These instruments are Violin, Viola, Cello, and Bass. We will learn the basic foundations of string playing including playing with and without the bow. This class meets for one a hour a week, and practice at home is required.
REQUIRED BOOK:
Sound Innovations Strings Book 1 - for your particular instrument.
Books are available on Amazon or at the local music store.
For instrument rentals I recommend Bellingham WindWorks.
Note:
9 year olds may join Beginning Band if they can
*Tune their own instrument
*Play the D Major Scale
*Play 4/4, 3/4, 2/4 time
*Play whole notes, half notes, quarter notes & eighth notes.
*Have also taken previous lessons on their instrument.
Yearlong Class
Beyond Band

Beyond Beginning Band
Teacher: Malcolm Peterson
11:05am-12:00pm Thursdays, 55 minutes
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 10-Adult
Open to Adults that have a student in the program.
This class is for anyone with at least one full year of experience on a wind instrument. The recommended instruments are Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Baritone, Tuba and percussion; you may choose another instrument with instructor permission. We will build on the basic foundations of playing and focus on technique and concert music. This class meets for 1 hour a week, and practice at home is required.
REQUIRED BOOK:
Essential Elements for Band Book 2 - for your particular instrument.
Get the book for your particular instrument. Books are available on Amazon.
For instrument rentals I recommend Bellingham WindWorks.
Prerequisite:
Student must have taken & passed Beginning Band.
To pass Beginning Band, one must be able to:
*Play the B Scale
*Play 4/4, 3/4, 2/4 time
*Play whole notes, half notes, quarter notes and eighth notes.
Yearlong Class
Beyond Strings

Beyond Beginning Strings
Teacher: Sharyn Peterson
10:00am-10:55am Thursdays, 55 minutes
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 10-Adult
Open to Adults that have a student in the
This class is for anyone with at least one full year of experience on a stringed instrument. These instruments are Violin, Viola, Cello, and Bass. We will build on the basic foundations of string playing and focus on technique and concert music. This class meets for 1 hour a week, and practice at home is required. For instrument rentals I recommend Bellingham WindWorks.
REQUIRED BOOK:
Sound Innovations for Strings Book 2 - for your particular instrument.
Books are available on Amazon or at the local music store.
Prerequisite:
Student must have taken & passed Beginning Strings. To pass Beginning Strings, one must be able to:
*Play the D Major Scale
*Play 4/4, 3/4, 2/4 time
*Play whole notes, half notes, quarter notes and eighth notes.
Yearlong Class
Drama

Drama
Teachers: Joelle Butler & Julia Nelson
1:55pm-2:50pm Thursdays, 55 minutes
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 10-Adult
The goal of this class is to teach students about storytelling through theater. They will do this by learning acting skills and using them by performing in a show.
Students will gain experience and understanding in:
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Acting skills (main focus):
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Improv
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Projecting/Articulation
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Memorization
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Blocking/Movement
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Developing a character
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Parts will be cast in the winter for a play that we will perform at the end of the school year. Auditions are tentatively scheduled for December. Students provide their own drama performance costume at their own expense. Students provide their own drama performance costume at their own expense.
*There's an additional cost for this class of $75.
Spring 2023: VCMA's Drama Performance was the Chronicles of Narnia.
Spring 2024: VCMA's Drama Performance was Anne of Green Gables.
Spring 2025: VCMA's Drama Performance was Baker Street Irregulars.
Open to Adults that have a student in the program.
Yearlong Class
Drumming FUNdamentals

World Drumming
Teacher: Becky Hedman
3:55-4:05 Class Setup Time
4:05pm-5:00pm Thursdays, at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 10-Adult
Supply Fee: There will be an additional $15 supply fee for this class.
In this fun hands-on class, students will learn to play rhythms on a variety of percussion instruments including body percussion, bucket drumming, and an intro to World Drumming with ethnic instruments such as djembe, dundun and agogo. Basic sticking patterns (rudiments) and rhythm notation will be covered and students will have the opportunity to add their creativity to call & response and ensemble playing. This class will be a good preparation (or review) for students who intend to play (or already play) percussion in band or orchestra.
Required: $15 materials fee (helps cover cost of 5-gallon bucket, mute, and sticks, which remain on site for classroom use)
3-ring binder with dividers for sticking patterns/handouts
Homework: Please set aside 15 min/day, 5 days a week for practice and rhythm work.
Motivated students who consistently practice may have additional opportunities for more advanced techniques and ensemble work.
Drumming patterns can be practiced at home without a drum or sticks simply by simulating a drum and sticks with their hands and lap.
Yearlong Class
Open to adults that have a student enrolled in the program. Must have current background check done.
Higher Praise Choir

Higher Praise Choir
Teacher: Becky Hedman
3:00pm-3:55pm Thursdays, 55 minutes
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 10-19
Materials needed:
Students are asked to provide their own BLACK 3-ring binder (1/2”-1” preferred) and pencil.
We have a limited supply of black binders available for purchase at $5 each.
Join other singers in sharing God’s gift of music as we explore vocal fundamentals such as posture, breath control, diction, and harmony. Basic music theory, ear training, and sight-singing will be taught through fun exercises and games as students learn a variety of pieces ranging from traditional folk songs to classical and sacred repertoire. Some practice and memorization of songs is required at home, and choir members participate in a performance opportunity each semester.
Print music will be provided for student’s use in class and at home, and must be returned in good condition at the end of each semester. The student is responsible for the cost of replacing unreturned or damaged music.
Class is yearlong.
Intro to Acting (8&9)

Intro to Acting
Teacher: Joelle Butler
10:30am-11:25am Thursdays
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 8-9
Fee: $75 (separate fee from yearlong classes)
Intro to Acting for 8 & 9 Year Olds
The goal of this class is to give younger students the opportunity to learn basic acting skills and perform in a short skit at the end of class. This class will prepare students for the Drama Class.
Students provide their own drama performance costume at their own expense.
Acting Skills:
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Projection and Articulation
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Blocking/Cheating Out/Movement
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Memorization
There may be an opportunity to help with the end of the year Drama performance.
Must be age 8 by 9/1/2025.
Sept - Dec Class
Movement & Music

Movement & Music
Teacher: Amy Hansen
1:45pm-2:40pm Thursdays
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 5-9
Movement and Music is a class for 5-9 year old students where we will put movement and motions to worship songs, kids songs as well as Bible passages (ex. Psalm 23) to help kids learn scripture in a new way. We will also use rhythm sticks to learn various rhythms and beats in music.
Must be age 5 by 9/1/2025.
Yearlong Class
Music & Me

Music & Me 1 (Ages 5-7)
Teacher: Joelle Butler
12:35pm-1:30pm Thursdays, 55 minutes
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
The goal of this class is to give younger students the initial experience of singing in a choir by practicing and performing in two concerts. They will also learn beginning singing/performing skills. This class will start preparing them for the Higher Praise Choir.
Skills they will learn:
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Singing in a group
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Proper stage etiquette
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Good singing posture and breath control
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Listening skills
*This class is for students that have no experience singing and performing in a group. Or for those who are still gaining confidence in this area.*
Music & Me 2 (Ages 8-9)
Teacher: Joelle Butler
11:35am-12:30pm Thursday, 55 minutes
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 8-9
The goal of this class is to give younger students that already have the initial experience of singing in a choir more experience by practicing and performing in two concerts. They will also learn more singing/performing skills. This class will continue preparing them for the Higher Praise Choir.
Skills they will review:
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Singing in a group
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Proper stage etiquette
-
Good singing posture and breath control
-
Listening skills
Skills they will learn:
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Head voice vs. chest voice
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How to match pitch
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How to blend vocally with other singers
*This class is for students that have at least one year of experience singing and performing in a group.*
Yearlong Class
Piano 2

Piano 2 - A Group Keyboarding Class
Teacher: Becky Hedman
Time: Mondays
at Inspire Burlington Campus
Ages 10-Adult
CLASS DESCRIPTION:
In this yearlong class, students will develop and expand their piano keyboard skills and repertoire in a group setting. Emphasis will be on learning basic music notation, intervals, ear training, scales, melodies, chords and accompaniment patterns. We will also explore some of the special features of the electronic keyboard, and enjoy playing a few ensemble pieces if time permits.
Prior keyboard experience is required. You must have taken Piano 1 or you need to get teacher permission to participate.
REQUIRED:
*Electronic Keyboard for use in class, with a minimum of 61 full-size keys AND touch sensitivity.
*AC adapter with extension cord OR batteries
*Headphones for silent practice in class.
*Sustain pedal
*Music stand to practice at home.
*A student provided 3-ring binder/folder.
*Keyboard stand optional (nice for concerts)
*Metronome (on keyboard or phone app, etc.) for developing accurate rhythm
BOOK NEEDED: Alfred's Piano 101 that can be found on Amazon.
HOMEWORK:
Students will be assigned specific pages to practice each week (approx. 15 min a day), with an occasional worksheet to complete.
Students may perform in the December & May concerts.
Yearlong Class
Open to adults that have a student enrolled in the program. Must have current background check done.
School aged Students will be a priority in enrollment, enrollment is on a first come first served basis.
Recorder Kids

Recorder Kids
Teacher: Julia Nelson
1:10pm-1:40pm Thursdays, 30 minutes
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 5-9
Recorder & Music Theory Class
The goal of this class is to give younger students experience playing their very first group instrument and well as knowledge of Music Theory.
Also, to give them an introduction to reading music.
Students will gain experience in:
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Reading music
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Performing in a group
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Preparing for a concert
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Prepare students for Beginning Band
Required book:
Recorder Express by Artie Almeida
Students that are ages 8 & 9 will learn to play recorder in preparation for Beginning Band (that they can take at age 10.)
Must be age 8 by 9/1/2025.
Yearlong Class
Ukulele

Ukulele
Teacher: Becky Hedman
Mondays
at Inspire Burlington Campus
Ages 10-Adult
Supply Fee: There will be an additional $10 supply fee for this class.
The ukulele is one of the happiest instruments to play and it's easy to learn! This beginner course will cover basic ukulele technique, chords, tuning, strumming, song accompaniment, a little music theory and ukulele history.
Ukuleles should be tunable and in good playing condition. At the first class the teacher will bring a variety of ukulele sizes and styles for students to try, and answer questions about what to look for when buying a ukulele. If a student already has a ukulele, please bring it to the first class.
Required: $10 materials fee
Method Book (to be determined)
3-ring binder with dividers for handouts/extra songs
Ukulele in good playing condition - strap is optional
Tuner (most guitar tuners have a uke setting)
Homework: Practice is necessary for progress with any instrument, so plan on 15 min. a day to review pieces and techniques introduced in class. You'll likely find it's such fun that you'll want to play even longer!
Open to Adults that have a student in the program.
Yearlong Class
Previously Taught Classes
Guitar 1

Guitar 1
Teacher: Becky Hedman
Taught 2023-2024 School Year
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 10-Adult
Acoustic or Classical, Guitar Class
Guitar 2

Guitar 2
Teacher: Becky Hedman
Taught 2024-2025 School Year
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 10-Adult
Acoustic or Classical, Guitar Class
Instrument requirements:
Acoustic guitar in good playing condition, capo, tuner, music stand (for at home practice)Not for electric or bass guitar.
Playing requirements:
Successful completion of Guitar 1 OR permission of instructor
Students should be able to:
1. Play basic chords in 1st position such as C, G, G7, D, D7, E, Em, E7, A, Am, A7
2. Be familiar with a few basic strum patterns
3. Recognize and play 1st position notes on strings 1-4
Practice requirement: 15 min, five days a week (minimum)
Students will progress quicker and get more out of this class when combined with consistent practice at home.
Materials/Books:
Hal Leonard Guitar Method Book 1, 2nd Ed - we will continue with this book until finished, then choose another book TBD
In this intermediate class students will:
*Review basic major, minor and 7th chords and learn new chord shapes/variations
*Learn to read and play 1st position notes on all strings
*Explore bass lines (transferable to bass guitar)
*Learn simple barre chords
*Develop new strumming patterns
*Be introduced to fingerstyle
*Accompany a variety of folk, gospel and worship songs
*Explore 2, 3 and 4-part ensemble pieces
*Participate in group performance each semester
*Experience Ensemble playing
Open to Adults that have a student in the program.
Yearlong Class
Piano 1

Piano 1 - A Group Keyboarding Class
Teacher: Becky Hedman
Taught 2024-2025 School Year
at Inspire Burlington Campus
Ages 10-Adult
CLASS DESCRIPTION:
In this yearlong class, students will develop and expand their piano keyboard skills and repertoire in a group setting. Emphasis will be on learning basic music notation, intervals, ear training, scales, melodies, chords and accompaniment patterns. We will also explore some of the special features of the electronic keyboard, and enjoy playing a few ensemble pieces if time permits.
Prior keyboard experience is a plus but NOT required - at times the class may be divided into beginning and more advanced groups.
Minimum of 6 students are needed in order for this class to run. Maximum of 12 students.
REQUIRED:
*Electronic Keyboard for use in class, with a minimum of 61 full-size keys AND touch sensitivity.
*AC adapter with extension cord OR batteries
*Headphones for silent practice in class.
*Sustain pedal
*Music stand - usually comes with keyboards, can purchase a tabletop/separate music stand.
*Music book (to be announced) and 3-ring binder/folder.
*Keyboard stand (or table) for use in class.
*Metronome (on keyboard or phone app, etc.) for developing accurate rhythm
HOMEWORK:
Students will be assigned specific pages to practice each week (approx. 15 min a day), with an occasional worksheet to complete.
This is not intended to be a performance class, but there may be the opportunity for students to share special pieces they have learned with the class.
Yearlong Class
Open to adults that have a student enrolled in the program. Must have current background check done.
School aged Students will be a priority in enrollment, enrollment is on a first come first served basis.
Rhythm Roundup

Rhythm Roundup
Teacher: Becky Hedman
Taught 2024-2025 School Year
at Inspire Sedro Woolley
Ages 5-9
Rhythm Roundup Rhythm Class
This is an active, music-making class that enables all children to be successful in creating and sharing music! Students will experience and learn about musical concepts such as rhythm, melody, form and expression through singing, playing, listening, movement, and more! This fun class will incorporate hand percussion and various other instruments and folk songs from the United States and around the world.
No weekly homework required, but students will need to memorize 1-2 pieces to share at the end of semester concerts.
Yearlong Class
Prospective Year Long VCMA Classes
Prospective Year Long VCMA Classes
Intermediate Band

Intermediate Band (by Permission Only)
Ages 11-19
We hope to offer Intermediate Band Fall 2024.
Yearlong Class
Intermediate Strings

Intermediate Strings (by Permission Only)
Ages 11-19
We hope to offer Intermediate Strings Fall 2024.
Yearlong Class
Advanced Band

Advanced Band
(by Permission/Audition only)
Ages 12-19
Open to Advanced Band Alumni as well.
We hope to offer Advanced Band in the near future.
Yearlong Class