ASM is one of the largest non-profits in Chicago, providing diverse after school programs to teens living throughout the city. In the past year, they provided over 15k opportunities for teens in areas like culinary arts, dance, and music, among many others. In addition to excellent instruction, ASM students receive a stipend for their work.

UpBeat is proud to partner with After School Matters to provide a unique learning experience for its students. Participants receive piano instruction and take part in an ensemble while gaining access to UpBeat’s events like progress performances and student workshops. Most importantly, it offers an opportunity to provide music education to students who might otherwise not be able to afford it.

How to Participate

If you are interested in joining the After School Matters program, please go to afterschoolmatters.org/teens/apply/ to apply.

Program details

Piano Lessons

Students receive group piano instruction at the level matching their skill — whether they are a beginner or a seasoned player, teachers will work with students to ensure that they learn new piano skills and leave the program being able to play songs and learn new ones.

Ensemble

All ASM students participate in ensembles, where they spend the session learning a few songs which they decide on together. In this setting, students are encouraged to step out of their comfort zone and try new instruments. At the end of the session, students will publicly perform their songs during the ASM showcase and other performance opportunities through UpBeat.

Mentorship

Teachers take the time to speak with each student about how they’re doing in life and school. Beyond teaching music, UpBeat teachers know that students can experience a lot of stress and so they want to ensure the success of their students by opening an honest dialogue with them.

Professional and Skill Development

Instructors provide workshops to the ASM students in which they are taught professional and life skills, such as how to interview, how to write an email, and how to tell your story. Whether students are going to college or beginning their career, having these life skills is invaluable.

Internship Opportunities

Like the TMM program, UpBeat provides ASM students the opportunity to gain work experience as a front desk intern, studio intern, summer camp intern, and more.

These internships provide some ASM students the opportunity to gain work experience, make money, and get references for when they start applying to colleges or jobs.