Registration for summer private lessons is now open! Fall lessons will begin the week of August 24. The final day to complete fall lessons is December 12. 

From age 7 to 70+, there is a place for students of all ages and experience levels in the Butler Community Arts School’s private lesson program!

Our trained Teaching Artists, composed of Butler students, alumni, and community professionals, are passionate educators engaged in creating learning experiences that accomplish their students’ goals. Private lessons take place in Lilly Hall on Butler University’s campus.

The Policies and Procedures section below lists more information about our lesson program and corresponding logistics. We thank you for taking the time to read through its important details.

Piano (minimum age 5)

Strings (minimum age 5)

Ukulele (minimum age 5)

Percussion (minimum age 7)

Guitar (minimum age 7)

Brass (minimum age 9)

Woodwinds (minimum age 9)

Composition (minimum age 9)

Music Theory (minimum age 9)

Voice (minimum age 12)

These policies are implemented to ensure equitable treatment for all our students, allowing for flexibility while maintaining a clear structure for financial transactions and lesson attendance. We believe in fostering a positive and supportive learning environment, and these policies reflect our commitment to that principle.

For any inquiries or clarification regarding this policy, please contact our office at bcas@butler.edu or 317-940-5500.

Registration procedure for new students

• New student registers for lessons.

• Based on the instrument type and scheduling availability, BCAS pairs the new student with a teacher.

• BCAS confirms the proposed lesson time with the teacher.

• Once the teacher confirms, BCAS confirms the lesson time with the new student/parent via email.

• Once the new student confirms the lesson time, BCAS sets a start date and sends formal email with specific details about the start of lessons and general program information.

• Lessons begin!

Registration process for returning students

• Returning student registers for lessons and includes the name of their teacher in the registration form.

• BCAS puts the returning student in the teacher’s schedule and notifies the teacher that their student has registered and can begin lessons.

• The teacher will reach out to the student to set up the next lesson.

• Lessons resume!

Account balance, credit, and rollover policy for private lessons

At the Butler Community Arts School, we strive to ensure a transparent and fair policy for our students participating in our programs. Our account balance policy is designed to accommodate changes in scheduling while maintaining fairness and clarity.

Registration and lesson selection:

• Students are required to select the number of lessons they intend to take during each semester at the time of registration.

• A table depicting the number of lessons that can fit based on the remaining weeks in the semester will be provided for easy reference during the registration process (see table below and in registration form).

• A $20 non-refundable registration fee is due at the time of registration. Lessons must be registered for prior to each semester – Fall, Spring, and Summer.

• Only one registration fee is due per family, regardless of the number of students in a family. The registration form automatically charges a $20 registration fee, so it is best to register all students in a family in the same registration form so you do not get charged a fee more than once.

Unfinished lessons:

• Lessons that are not utilized within a semester will not roll over to the next semester.

• If not all lessons that were registered for originally are able to be had by the end of the semester, accounts will be prorated accordingly.

Credit/Refund for overpayment:

• In the event that a student overpays for lessons, the excess amount will be credited to their account or refunded. This credit can be applied to future lessons within the next semester. Credits are valid for one calendar year only. Credits can only be used for the program they were originally registered for.

Tuition

At least one half of tuition is due prior to the start of the first lesson. Tuition is due in full by the following deadlines: Fall—November 1, Spring—April 1, Summer—July 1. Customizable payment plans are available as needed. Please email bcas@butler.edu to establish a payment plan.

• 30-minute lessons are $26 each

• 45-minute lessons are $38 each

• 60-minute lessons are $50 each

Lesson packages for new and returning students

Allow for one to two business weeks of turn around time between date of registration and the start of lessons. Please note that there is a high volume of registrants around the time that registration opens each semester. Your patience is appreciated.

Returning students may resume lessons with their teachers as soon as they are registered for the new semester.

• Returning student lessons: Upon registration, please connect directly with your lesson teacher to set up your lesson time, as the BCAS office will not coordinate lessons for returning students. For returning students, we’re offering up to 15 lessons for this session.

• New student lessons: The BCAS office will coordinate the start of lessons for new students. After the first lesson, scheduling will be arranged directly between the student and their teacher. We’re offering up to 15 lessons for this session for new students.

NOTE: Additional lessons can always be requested via email to bcas@butler.edu

Lesson attendance and make-up policy:

• At least 24-hours advance notice must be given to the teacher in order to be offered a make-up lesson.

• All lessons missed by the instructor will be made up.

• If less than 24-hour notice of absence is given, the student will be charged for the missed lesson.

• Exceptions to the 24-hour notice policy are: inclement weather, a family emergency, car trouble, or student illness.

• No more than 3 lessons can be missed by a student within the 24-hour cancellation window. Teachers will not be required to make up any lessons beyond those 3 cancellations.

Please review the About Private Lessons and Policies and Procedures sections before registering.

Ages: 18+

Program Description: In this class you will learn how to read sheet music, different rhythmic patterns, note value, musical terms, intervals, chords, and be able to play familiar tunes. By the end of the course you will have gained a thorough understanding of the basic concepts of music on the piano.

We’re offering two separate 6-week sessions of Adult Piano class this fall, and each one is designed to stand on its own. You can join us for just one, or take both for a deeper experience. Returning students will explore new material and challenges, while beginners will be supported every step of the way.

Session Dates and Times:

• Session #1: Tuesdays, 6:00pm-7:00pm, September 9 through October 14.
• Session #2: Tuesdays, 6:00pm-7:00pm, October 28 through December 9. No class will be held the week of Thanksgiving. 

Total Cost:

• One session: $115
• Both sessions: $200

Deposit:

A non-refundable $25 deposit is required at checkout to reserve your spot. This deposit is applied toward your total tuition.

Remaining Balance:

• If attending one session, the remaining $90 is due one week before the program starts.
• If attending both sessions, the remaining $175 is due one week before the program starts.

Registration Deadline: September 2, 2025

Course Materials: Students are required to provide their own books. More information on what books to buy will be communicated to students at a later date. 

Ages: 18+

Meeting times: Classes are held weekly on Fridays starting September 5 and ending December 12. There will be no class held on October 31 or November 28.

• Beginning Ensemble: Fridays, 4:45-5:45pm
• Intermediate Ensemble: Friday, 6-7pm
• NEW Advanced Ensemble: Friday, 7-8pm 

Tuition:

• Total Tuition Cost: The cost of this program is $250
• Non-Refundable Deposit: At checkout, a $25 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot. This will be deducted from the tuition cost.
• Remaining Balance: The remaining $225 of tuition is required one week before the program’s start date.

Not ready to commit to the full program?
You can register for a “Try-It Pass” for $25, which lets you attend one class before deciding. After that class, you’ll have 48 hours to let us know whether you plan to:

• Enroll in the full program (with the $25 applied toward your tuition). Should you enroll in the full program, the remaining $225 will be due within 48 ours of your decision.
  
• Drop the program with no further payment required.

Registration Deadline: August 29

Program Description: Adult Strings Ensemble welcomes music students who are returning to their strings or trying them out for the first time. In this class, students will learn not reading and basic playing techniques on the violin, viola, cello, and bass in a fun, no-pressure environment. 

Required Experience and Auditions:

• Beginning Ensemble: no auditions are required and no prior experience is required
• Intermediate Ensemble: no auditions are required and 1+ year of experience is required
• Advanced Ensemble: For admittance into the Advanced Adult Strings Ensemble, an audition is required.  Please submit the following:
  • Violins: 3 octave G major, C major scales and a solo of your choice demonstrating your current skill level (2 minutes max)
  • Violas: 3 octave C major, F major scales and a solo of your choice demonstrating your current skill level (2 minutes max)
  • Cellos:  3 octave C major, F major scales and a solo of your choice demonstrating your current skill level (2 minutes max)
  • Basses: 2-3 octave G major, F major scales and a solo of your choice demonstrating your current skill level (2 minutes max)

If unsure about your level or ability, or have questions about the curriculum, please contact the ensemble director, Ms. Shannon Crow via email at scrow@butler.edu

Participants must provide their own instrument. All other materials will be provided.

Meet the instructor, Shannon Crow!

Shannon M. Crow is a graduate of Butler University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. Ms. Crow has been teaching private violin and viola lessons for over 20 years, and has extensive experience teaching students from 4 years to 80 years of age. Currently she conducts Orchestra B and the Parent Orchestra of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, as well as teaches private lessons.  At the Butler Community Arts School, Shannon founded and directs the Adult Strings Ensembles, the Butler Children’s Orchestra, Butler Youth Orchestra and Butler Strings Camp, as well as teaches private violin and viola lessons. When not teaching private lessons, Ms. Crow has partnered with the VA in research and in supporting our veterans through music; and is an avid performer in local orchestras and for private events.

Meeting times: Classes are held weekly on Fridays starting September 5 and ending December 12 from 6:00pm-7:00pm. There will be no class held on October 31 or November 21.

Tuition:

• Total Tuition Cost: The cost of this program is $195
• Non-Refundable Deposit: At checkout, a $25 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot. This will be deducted from the tuition cost.
• Remaining Balance: The remaining $170 of tuition is required one week before the program’s start date.

Registration Deadline: August 29

Program Description: Led by Marc Keehmer, the Adult Wind Ensemble is a brand-new space for adults to make music together. Whether you’re returning to your primary instrument or exploring a second one just for the fun of it, this group welcomes musicians of all experience levels. It’s especially great for those who’ve missed the sense of community (and the sound) that comes from playing in an ensemble.

Rehearsals are relaxed, collaborative, and built around approachable music that’s enjoyable to play and meaningful to share. Whether it’s been years since your last band concert or you’ve always wanted to try a new instrument in a supportive setting, this ensemble is designed to meet you where you are and invite you back into the joy of making music with others.

The semester concludes with a casual performance to celebrate the group’s growth and creativity. No auditions. No pressure. Just music, connection, and a place to belong.

Meet the instructor, Marc Keehmer!

Marc Keehmer is a trumpet player and educator with over 20 years of experience. He began his career as a teaching artist with the San Diego Youth Symphony’s Opus Project, later becoming a public school music teacher and eventually serving as a district VAPA (Visual and Performing Arts) coordinator. He currently works as the Assistant Director of Camps and Youth Programs at Butler University. Marc has taught private lessons and group classes in trumpet, clarinet, guitar, and ukulele, and has conducted a variety of ensembles, including school bands, youth wind ensembles, and a modern band for military veterans. He also performs regularly with the Second Chamber Players. At his core, Marc is passionate about creating welcoming spaces where people can make music together. He’s excited to lead this new ensemble and reconnect with the joy of playing in community.

We’re offering two separate 5-week sessions this fall, and each one is designed to stand on its own. You can join us for just one, or take both for a deeper experience. Returning students will explore new material and challenges, while first-time session participants will be supported every step of the way.

Ages: 12-18

Meeting times: Sundays, 4-6pm 

• Session 1: September 7 through October 5
• Session 2: October 26 through November 23
• Final performance details for both sessions are forthcoming

Total Cost:

• One session: $250
• Both sessions: $450

Deposit:

A non-refundable $25 deposit is required at checkout to reserve your spot. This deposit is applied toward your total tuition.

Remaining Balance:

• If attending one session, the remaining $225 is due one week before the program starts.
  
• If attending both sessions, the remaining $375 is due one week before the program starts.

Registration Deadlines:

• Session 1 deadline: August 31
• Session 2 deadline: October 19

Program Description: Join the Butler Youth Jazz Program for combos! Students will be split into combos and work with local jazz professionals to hone their skills. One prior year of experience on your instrument is required. A placement audition is required with your registration.

Placement audition requirements: 

Email your audition video to the instructor, Kent Hickey, via kahicke1@butler.edu

• Prepared Jazz Piece: Choose and perform a jazz piece of your own selection.
  • Guitar and Piano: Your prepared piece should include examples of comping (accompanying) within the performance.
  • Bass: Your prepared piece should include prominent bass lines that showcase your playing.
• Scales (for all instruments except drummers): Prepare and play four scales of your choice, which can include major, chromatic, mixolydian, etc.
• Improvisation: Play an improvisation over a 12-bar Bb blues progression.
• Drummers: Demonstrate your skills with 16 bars each of three different styles:
  • Medium swing
  • Latin/Bossa Nova
  • Rock/Funk

Ages: 12+ (including adults)

Meeting times: Saturdays from 10am-11:15am from September 6-December 6. No class will be held on September 27, October 25, November 8, or November 29. There will be ten classes total, plus a performance at the end. 

Tuition:

• Total Tuition Cost: The cost of this program is $150
• Non-Refundable Deposit: At checkout, a $25 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot. This will be deducted from the tuition cost.
• Remaining Balance: The remaining $125 of tuition is required one week before the program’s start date.

Registration Deadline: August 30

Program Description: Chamber Players offers a unique intergenerational musical experience, assembling players of similar skill levels into small chamber ensembles. Participants will explore a diverse repertoire, develop leadership abilities, enhance independent playing, and bolster confidence on their instruments.

Applicants must have a minimum of 3 years of instrumental experience, proficiency in note reading, and be at least 12 years old. 

All orchestral string instruments (violin, viola, cello, bass) and piano players are encouraged to join.

Meet the instructor, Shannon Crow!

Shannon M. Crow is a graduate of Butler University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. Ms. Crow has been teaching private violin and viola lessons for over 20 years, and has extensive experience teaching students from 4 years to 80 years of age. Currently she conducts Orchestra B and the Parent Orchestra of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, as well as teaches private lessons.  At the Butler Community Arts School, Shannon founded and directs the Adult Strings Ensembles, the Butler Children’s Orchestra, Butler Youth Orchestra and Butler Strings Camp, as well as teaches private violin and viola lessons. When not teaching private lessons, Ms. Crow has partnered with the VA in research and in supporting our veterans through music; and is an avid performer in local orchestras and for private events.

Ages: 5-9

We’re offering two separate 6-week sessions of Piano for Little Bulldogs class this fall, and each one is designed to stand on its own. You can join us for just one, or take both for a deeper experience. Returning students will explore new material and challenges, while beginners will be supported every step of the way.

Session Dates and Times:

• Session #1: Saturdays, 10:00-10:50am, September 6 through October 11. This session is currently full. You are encouraged to consider joining session #2, or join the waitlist for session #1 by emailing bcas@butler.edu
• Session #2: Saturdays, 10:00-10:50am, October 25 through December 6. No class will be held the week of Thanksgiving. 

Total Cost:

• One session: $115
• Both sessions: $200

Deposit:

A non-refundable $25 deposit is required at checkout to reserve your spot. This deposit is applied toward your total tuition.

Remaining Balance:

• If attending one session, the remaining $90 is due one week before the program starts.
• If attending both sessions, the remaining $175 is due one week before the program starts.

Registration Deadline: August 30

Program Description: Piano for Little Bulldogs is a piano-based introduction to music fundamentals for children ages 5-9 years old. Grounded in the spirit of play and exploration, students will learn the basics of rhythm, melody, piano technique, improvisation, and musicality. Weekly group classes (50 minutes each) will include a mix of interactive demonstration, games, singing, body movement, writing/drawing, and of course, playing the piano! 

• No previous music experience is required, but students should know and be able to recognize written letters (A through G) and numbers (1-10). 
• A parent or caregiver must attend class with the child and should be prepared to direct/assist the child in regular practice throughout the week.
• The child should have regular access to a keyboard for practice at home; it does not need to be acoustic or full size.

There are no prerequisites required for this course.

Meet the instructor, Cora Hart!

Cora is a collegiate pianist with a passion for music and education. She is currently studying piano performance and pedagogy at Butler University, where she is involved in the Music Teachers National Association. For the past three years, she has been an active teacher at Butler Community Arts School, teaching private lessons and Piano Camp. She loves sharing music with students of all ages and is committed to creating a fun and encouraging learning environment. 

Ages: 7-13

Meeting times: Fridays at the following times from September 5 – December 5, 2025. There will be no class on November 28. 

• Guitar Ensemble from 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Beginning String Ensemble from 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Intermediate String Ensemble from 3:00 PM – 4:15 PM

Total Tuition Cost:

• First student: $250
• Each additional student: $225

Non-Refundable Deposit:

• A $25 non-refundable deposit per student is required at checkout to secure your spot. 
• This deposit will be deducted from the total tuition.

Remaining Balance:

• The remaining balance (total tuition minus the $25 deposit per student) is due one week before the program begins.

Registration Deadline: August 29

Program Description: The Butler Strings Project offers young musicians an exciting opportunity to explore the joy of music through orchestra classes. Designed for beginners and students with up to three years of experience, this program provides a supportive, ensemble-based environment where your child can thrive.

• Engaging Ensemble Experience: Students collaborate with peers, fostering teamwork and creativity while making music together.
• Performance Opportunities: Recitals and concerts help students build confidence and develop stage presence.
• Strong Foundations: Through expert instruction, students gain essential skills for excellence in string playing.

Prerequisites:

• Beginner Ensemble: No experience is required.
• Intermediate Ensemble: Students must have at least three years of experience on their instrument to participate in this program. 
• Guitar Ensemble: Students must have some familiarity with the instrument, such as knowing a few chords, strumming patterns, or simple melodies.
• If you are unsure of which level you might be at, please email the instructor, Shannon Crow (scrow@butler.edu) for strings, or Marc Keehmer (mkeehmer@butler.edu) for guitar.

Meeting times: Tuesdays, 2-3:30pm from September 2-December 9. No class will be held on November 25. 

Program Description: Veterans, their family members, and VA staff are invited to join the VA-Butler Veteran Modern Band, which meets weekly at Butler University.

Participation is free, and Veterans are welcome to bring their own instrument or borrow one from the program.

No prior musical experience is necessary—beginners are especially encouraged to come explore a variety of instruments and make music alongside fellow Veterans as they build new skills together.

Meet the instructors, Shannon Crow and Marc Keehmer !

Shannon M. Crow is a graduate of Butler University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. Ms. Crow has been teaching private violin and viola lessons for over 20 years, and has extensive experience teaching students from 4 years to 80 years of age. Currently she conducts Orchestra B and the Parent Orchestra of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, as well as teaches private lessons.  At the Butler Community Arts School,

Shannon founded and directs the Adult Strings Ensembles, the Butler Children’s Orchestra, Butler Youth Orchestra and Butler Strings Camp, as well as teaches private violin and viola lessons. 

When not teaching private lessons, Ms. Crow has partnered with the VA in research and in supporting our veterans through music; and is an avid performer in local orchestras and for private events.

Marc Keehmer is a trumpet player and educator with over 20 years of experience. He began his career as a teaching artist with the San Diego Youth Symphony’s Opus Project, later becoming a public school music teacher and eventually serving as a district VAPA (Visual and Performing Arts) coordinator. He currently works as the Assistant Director of Camps and Youth Programs at Butler University.

Marc has taught private lessons and group classes in trumpet, clarinet, guitar, and ukulele, and has conducted a variety of ensembles, including school bands, youth wind ensembles, and a modern band for military veterans. He also performs regularly with the Second Chamber Players.

At his core, Marc is passionate about creating welcoming spaces where people can make music together. He’s excited to lead this new ensemble and reconnect with the joy of playing in community.

View BCAS summer camps and all Camps and Community Programs at Butler summer camp offerings via the link below.

Join Butler dance faculty, Marek Cholewa and Rosanna Ruffo, for a professional ballet workshop based on the Vaganova System. This two-week workshop will have a classical ballet focus including: ballet, pointe, variations, men’s allegro, and pas de deux. 

• Professional level, ages 18+
• Monday, August 11 through Saturday, August 23, 2025 (classes Monday-Saturday); final performance on Saturday, August 23
• Tuition: $850 (this includes the $50 non-refundable deposit required with application)
• Application deadline: June 30, 2025
• Full tuition due by: July 28, 2025

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:

The Cholewa-Ruffo Workshop is a professional-level intensive program that is rigorous and repertoire-focused. It is designed for rising first-years and above (18+). 

POLICIES:

• No refunds will be issued after July 28, 2025.
• If an injury prevents participation in the program, a request in writing for a refund (minus $50 non-refundable deposit) should be emailed to bcas@butler.edu by July 28.
• Upon receiving your application, the artistic directors may request a video audition of classical variation.
• The application is not complete until you have selected “Submit Form” at the end of the payment section. You will receive a confirmation page.
• Online tuition payments can be made here.