With music programs slowly losing funding in many schools across the nation, it is important to remember some of the benefits that come with learning about it and how to create it. For kids of any age, learning music can have positive effects on critical life aspects such as making friends, performing well in school, and as a stress reliever.
If your child shows interest in playing music, chances are they would be happy to be enrolled in a music program if their school does not offer one. Being in a program that is enjoyable could make it easier for your child to find other children in the class that enjoys music as much as yours. While your child is learning a new skill, they will also be making positive connections with other children who share the same interest. Knowing that your child is making new friends is something every parent loves.
For many, music is often used as a tool to relieve stress after a long day at work. You may find yourself more relaxed after listening to some of your favorite music either at work or at home. The same could be said about children if they learn to use it the same way. Children that come home from a stressful day at school may find some comfort in picking up an instrument and practicing some tunes. The key is to give them access to music.
A study published by Cristopher Johnson, professor of Music Education and Music Therapy, shows that children who have access to high-quality music programs score around 22 percent higher in English and 20 percent higher in math scores on standardized tests. This may be due to the need for focus, discipline, and patience that is necessary to learn music. If a child is able to develop these skills, the positive long-term effects that it could have in their education can be very beneficial.
At the Manassas Park Community Center, we have developed a set of introductory music programs to help understand its history and how to create it. Our Music Theory and Music Appreciation courses will help students become familiar with the basic building blocks of how music is created as they explore different genres throughout history. All Access members have full access to these courses at no additional cost, as well as one-on-one instrument lessons with our instructor. Now that the school year is ending, it is a perfect opportunity to help your child, or even yourself, learn the beautiful art of music!
The Manassas Park Community Center is located at 99 Adams Street in Manassas Park, VA. Managed by the City of Manassas Park Department of Parks and Recreation, the facility is home to basketball courts, a swimming pool, wellness areas, special events, and recreational classes. For more information visit us at ManassasParkCommunityCenter.com or call at 703-335-8872.
Recent Stories
Step back in time and experience history firsthand at Ben Lomond Historic Site in Manassas, VA. Built in 1832, this remarkable home once served as a Confederate field hospital during the Battle of First Manassas. Today, visitors can explore its preserved rooms, complete with Civil War-era graffiti left by Union soldiers, as well as the original slave quarters, smokehouse, and dairy that tell the story of the people who lived and worked here.
Stroll Through History – Don’t miss the fragrant Rose Garden, featuring one of the largest collections of antique roses in the region.
Engaging Tours – Open Friday-Monday, 10 AM-4 PM, with guided tours at 11 AM and 2 PM. Admission: $5 per person, free for children under six.
Accessible Experiences – Enjoy 360° Virtual Tour tablets and foreign language guides in French, Italian, German, Chinese, and Spanish—available at no extra cost!
Volunteer With Us! – Love Civil War history or gardening? Join our team and help preserve this incredible piece of Prince William County’s past.
Visit us at 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA 20109
(703) 367-7872 | ? [email protected]
Plan your visit today and experience history like never before!
We want to improve our newsletter, and we need your input! Based on early survey responses, readers have asked for:
More Local Government and Budget Coverage – Transparency matters! Please tell us what government topics you want us to cover.
A Better Newsletter Design – Is the layout working for you? Let us know how we can improve readability and navigation.
More Coverage of Manassas Park and Stafford – If you live in these areas, what local stories do you want to see more of?
Now it’s your turn! Please complete our short survey and help us continue delivering the news that matters most to you.
Coles District Supervisor Yesli Vega is pushing to cancel the long-debated Route 28 Bypass project, a multi-year effort designed to alleviate congestion on Route 28 by extending Godwin Drive to connect Manassas with Dulles Airport. The Prince William Board of County Supervisors is set to vote on her resolution during its meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. The project, initially endorsed in September 2020, was meant to relieve congestion on Route 28 by constructing a four-lane divided bypass extending Godwin Drive across Sudley Road. The road would have connected with Route 28 at a signalized intersection north of Bull Run Stream in Fairfax County.
If you’re searching for a loyal companion with a heart as big as his head, look no further than Hugo! This magnificent 4-year-old Mastiff-mix weighs in at 114 pounds, but don’t let his size fool you—he’s a gentle giant with a sweet and easy-going nature.
Hugo loves nothing more than taking leisurely strolls on nature trails, often checking in with his walking buddy to make sure you’re right there with him. His previous owner shared that he gets along well with children and other dogs, though he can be a little nervous around new people. Because of this, Hugo would do best in a quiet home with a patient owner who can help him build his confidence.If you’re searching for a loyal companion with a heart as big as his head, look no further than Hugo! This magnificent 4-year-old Mastiff-mix weighs in at 114 pounds, but don’t let his size fool you—he’s a gentle giant with a sweet and easy-going nature.
Hugo loves nothing more than taking leisurely strolls on nature trails, often checking in with his walking buddy to make sure you’re right there with him. His previous owner shared that he gets along well with children and other dogs, though he can be a little nervous around new people. Because of this, Hugo would do best in a quiet home with a patient owner who can help him build his confidence.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.