Collage of Musically Minded students and teachers.

CALIFORNIA 501(c)(3) NONPROFIT

Learn music.
Make music.
Perform together.

 

Performance-based music education for children, teens and adults. Learn with an Oakland nonprofit committed to musicianship, connection and community.

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Group Piano class

Find your place at Musically Minded

Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time or looking for your next musical challenge, we offer different ways to learn, play and perform together.

PRIVATE & SEMI-PRIVATE LESSONS
Academy Program

 

Personalized music instruction for children, teens and adults, available in person and online.

Explore Private Lessons →

GROUP CLASSES & ENSEMBLES
Live Ensembles Program

A photo collage of youth instrumentalists playing in ensembles and composing

 

From first-time beginners to experienced musicians. Explore group piano, orchestra, jazz and more.

Explore Classes & Ensembles →

MUSIC IN OAKLAND SCHOOLS
Uplift Music

OUSD Students playing in orchestras and bands

 

Supporting students, music teachers and school music programs in Oakland public schools.

Explore Uplift Music →

Our Approach

People First.
Music Second.

We believe great music education starts with the person.

Every musician brings different interests, goals, experiences and ways of learning. We help students build strong musicianship while developing confidence, creativity and meaningful connections with others through music.

LEARN
Build musical skills, understanding and confidence.
PERFORM
Put learning into practice through meaningful performance experiences.
CONNECT
Make music with others and become part of a musical community.
NOW ENROLLING
Explore Current Programs
Find the right opportunity to learn, play and grow at Musically Minded.
Newbie Notes

Newbie Notes
BEGINNER MUSIC GROUPS FOR KIDS
A playful, performance-based introduction to music for young beginners. Students learn through singing, movement, rhythm, keyboard and instrument activities, then build toward making music together.
Ages 2–3 – Toddler Group
Currently meeting Thursdays

Ages 4–6
Group opens as enrollment builds

Ages 6–8
Group opens as enrollment builds

Ages 8–10/11
Group opens as enrollment builds

New Notes

New Notes
MULTIGENERATIONAL ENSEMBLE
For musicians who already know the basics of their instrument and want to experience playing in an ensemble. Each musician receives music suited to their current ability. The group rehearses together on Saturdays and prepares pieces for performance, so younger students, adults and senior musicians can all participate.
Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Starts October 10

Oakland Technical High School

New to your instrument? Start with Newbie Notes.

Private lesson

Private Lessons
INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION FOR ALL AGES
Personalized one-on-one and semi-private lessons for beginners through advanced musicians. We offer instruction across a wide range of instruments with experienced, passionate teachers.
Instruments: Piano, voice, violin, viola, cello, saxophone, clarinet, flute, drums, bass and more.

♬ All ages and levels
▣ In person and online options available

SUPPORT THE MISSION
Help more people make music.
As a nonprofit, Musically Minded depends on community support to create meaningful music experiences, strengthen local programs and help more people learn, perform and connect through music.
ACCESS — Help expand access to high-quality music education.
COMMUNITY — Support ensembles, performances and shared musical experiences.
OPPORTUNITY — Help students and musicians grow through teaching, mentorship and performance.
Musically Minded has received support from organizations including the National Endowment for the Arts, California Arts Council, Alameda County ArtsFund, Bank of Marin and the Bill Graham Supporting Foundation.

Support Musically Minded →

College of students playing music in programs at the academy.