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The Center's programs fall into two categories: individual instruction and group instruction. Group programs include early childhood music experiences, a string program, children's choirs, a dramatic ensemble, a flute ensemble and a piano program. Individual instruction includes private lessons for children and adults in voice, piano and many other instruments.

"As the region has grown, so has its needs. With the Community Music Center, we hope to fill the need for a comprehensive music education program and complement what's happening in our local schools," Dr. Andrew Roby, chair of Union's music department, says.

"Union and the Jackson Symphony agree that music is critical to the development of a well-rounded human being," Roby says."With the Center, students can learn the necessary skills to become culturally literate citizens. Our early childhood program in particular will give students a chance to learn teamwork, self-esteem, self-discipline and self-confidence beginning as early as infancy."

The Center's instruction will be led primarily by Union faculty and local professional musicians. The Center will use the university's music facilities. The string program, sponsored by the Symphony, will be led Margaret Thomas Lawless of the Jackson Symphony.

Required auditions for the choral and dramatic ensembles will begin Aug. 16. Auditions for the dramatic ensemble will be held between 4 and 6 p.m., Aug. 16 and 17; children's choir auditions will be held between 4 and 7 p.m., Aug. 16-19. For more information about auditions, enrollment in the Center's fall programs or tuition, contact Center Director Kim Graves at (901) 661-5234.