Business Details
20 Years
experience
Empowering Music Education & Therapy in Fort Collins
Foundation Music School has been dedicated to empowering individuals through music education and therapy since 2006. Our mission centers on making music accessible to all, regardless of age, ability, or financial circumstance, through tailored programs and community outreach. With a team of professional musicians and board-certified music therapists, we serve approximately 600 in-house students weekly and reach an additional 1,000 individuals through partnerships like the Poudre School District Early Childhood Music Therapy Program. Our scholarship initiatives ensure financial barriers do not prevent access to transformative musical experiences.As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we maintain a community-focused approach, emphasizing inclusivity and measurable outcomes in both educational and therapeutic settings. Our expertise spans early childhood development, individualized instruction, and therapeutic interventions addressing speech, motor, and cognitive skills. We demonstrate authoritativeness through partnerships with organizations like Wings Easter Seals and adherence to rigorous professional standards. Transparency in operations, need-based financial assistance, and client-centered program design underscore our commitment to trustworthiness and long-term community impact.
Services
Family Music
Preschool Music
Music Therapy
Group Lessons
Private Lessons
Music Camps
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer need-based scholarships ensuring music accessibility for all income levels
- Our team includes board-certified music therapists with specialized training
- We serve 1,600+ individuals weekly through in-house and outreach programs
- Certified instructors provide evidence-based therapeutic interventions for developmental needs
- Community partnerships expand our impact through programs like Wings Easter Seals
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit
What people say
Transformative music education
Effective therapy programs
Dedicated instructors
Affordable scholarships
Engaging classes
Services
Music Therapy
Board-certified therapists use music to address speech, motor, and cognitive development needs. Sessions range from 30-60 minutes, tailored to individual requirements. Our programs help clients improve communication, emotional regulation, and physical coordination through structured musical activities.
Private Lessons
Personalized instruction in piano, violin, guitar, and voice develops technical skill and musical creativity. Certified instructors adapt teaching methods to each student's learning style and pace. Lessons emphasize confidence-building and artistic expression for all proficiency levels.
Preschool Music
Curriculum combines movement, rhythm, and instrument exploration to prepare young children for formal music study. Classes enhance auditory processing, motor skills, and social interaction through developmentally appropriate musical activities. Designed for ages 3-5 to build foundational music literacy.
Family Music
Interactive sessions for caregivers and children aged birth-5 years develop early musical aptitude through singing, dancing, and instrument play. Activities strengthen parent-child bonds while fostering rhythmic awareness and auditory development in a playful environment.
Music Camps
Full-day camps combine instrumental instruction, ensemble performance, and music-related activities. Programs run during school breaks and include themed workshops for different age groups. Camps emphasize collaborative learning and performance opportunities in a supportive setting.
People
Stephen Brackett
Executive Director
Stephen leads strategic operations with 15+ years in nonprofit music education. He oversees program development and community partnerships to expand accessible music opportunities.
Nicole Wilshusen
Assistant Director
Nicole manages daily operations and music therapy programs. With a master's in music therapy, she specializes in developmental interventions and supervises clinical staff.
Crystal Malinski
Music Therapist
Board-certified therapist Crystal uses music to improve clients' speech and motor skills. She designs individualized treatment plans addressing communication and physical development goals through evidence-based techniques.
Dawson Dowdy
Piano Teacher
Dawson teaches piano with a focus on classical technique and creative expression. His lessons incorporate theory and performance to develop well-rounded musicianship for students of all ages.
Katelynn Guzman
Family Music Instructor
Katelynn leads parent-child music classes that develop early rhythmic and listening skills. Her engaging teaching style fosters joyful musical exploration for families through interactive play activities.
Questions
What age groups do your programs serve?
We offer programs for infants through adults, with specialized classes for preschoolers, school-age children, and family groups.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes, 20% of students receive need-based scholarships. We also accept Medicaid waivers and restricted funds for therapy services.
What music therapy goals do you address?
Our board-certified therapists work on speech development, motor skills, emotional regulation, and social interaction through music-based interventions.
Are private lessons available for all instruments?
We offer private instruction in piano, violin, guitar, ukulele, drums, and voice with professional musicians specializing in these instruments.
How do music camps work?
Full-day camps combine instrument instruction, ensemble practice, and music-themed activities during school breaks for ages 5-18.
Can I try a class before enrolling?
Yes, free class previews are available for all program types to help families experience our teaching approach.
