The Metro Parks Music department provides recreational music opportunities to Nashville and its surrounding communities.
For more information please contact us at 615-862-8440, or email us at [email protected].
We are located in the Centennial Performing Arts Studios in Centennial Park. Centennial Performing Arts Studios (Map image)
Music Programming for Youth
Centennial JamBands
Ages 8-17
Centennial JamBands is a youth music program that rehearses in Centennial Park at the Performing Arts Studios. We are always looking for talented young people, ages 8-17 that play guitar, bass, keys drums or other musical instruments. Students learn how to rehearse, listen, improvise, and play a bunch of great tunes. They even have the chance to showcase and perform their originals.
Meeting in the afternoons after school and with day camps during the summer, Centennial JamBands provides young musicians a chance to practice their craft with peers of the same age and skill level.
JamBands Juniors: students should know the basics of music - chords, scales and be able to play or sing a melody (song).
JamBands Classic: Students should know scales, basic chords in major and minor keys, and be able to play or sing several melodies (songs).
JamBands All-Stars: Students should know all major and minor chords, scales, be able to play or sing several melodies (songs) and to improvise.
Register now for 2025 JamBands spring.
Email [email protected] if you have more questions or need assistance.
Summer Concerts
Big Band Dances
Metro Parks Music's hosts a series of summer concerts of live Big Band music. People come to dance to swing and jazz favorites and enjoy the music. Free dance lessons are given before each event. See the 2024 Big Band Dance Flyer. Visit Facebook for the most up-to-date Big Band Dance information or call 615-862-8440, including weather-related cancellations.
Music Programming for Adults
Djembe Drum Class
Join Clifford for some Djembe drumming on Tuesdays at 6:30 pm starting February 11, 2025 (8 week session). No experience needed. Drums are provided. Register for Djembe Drum Class today
Discover the joy of playing the djembe in a group setting at Centennial Performing Arts Studios!
Whether you're a beginner or just want to brush up on your skills, this in-person class is perfect for you. Our experienced instructor, Clifford Koufman, will guide you through the basics, including proper hand technique, rhythm patterns, and more. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with other drum enthusiasts and explore the world of percussion. Sign up now and let the beats of the djembe transport you to a whole new level of musical expression!
Free Beginner Piano Lessons
Open to All Ages
- 30-minute beginner piano lesson
- At Centennial Performing Arts Studios
- Tuesday nights after 6:00 p.m.
- Limited space available
For inquiries or to register, contact Dr. Kaylina Crawley at [email protected].
Hartman Park Band
The Hartman Park Band is a group of retirees who come together once a week to socialize and play music. Always glad to, as they say, “Make a Little Noise” with their Parks music instructor, the group has played regularly going on five years. Co-founded by Hartman Community Center manager Adrean Gregory, they practice on Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Rehearsals are open to new-comers and visitors.
You can also see them performing around town for special parks events and concerts. The band focuses on popular music form the last 50 years, mainly Rock n Roll, but also blues, country and some jazz. The band includes keys, guitars, drums, electric bass, and saxophones. They feature several outstanding vocalists. Some of the musicians have a lifetime of experience, playing in churches, clubs or with friends and family. However, some band members are beginners, having found a new passion in their golden years. The oldest member is in his 80’s, with the youngest being in his 40’s.