Why is fine arts important?

Faith Christian Academy in Goldsboro, NC approaches fine arts with a unique perspective. Like most schools, we value the artistic merit and personal development aspects of music, theater, visual arts, and other creative endeavors. However, at FCA, there is an added spiritual dimension. All talents are a gift from God and should be used to glorify His creation! We participate in state competitions hosted by the North Carolina Christian School Association (NCCSA) as wells as TriCom. Students compete in the areas of vocal solo, ensemble, chorale, choir, instrumental solo, instrumental duet, and more! Elementary students also participate in Bible sward drill, choric speaking, and poetry recitation. High school students have the opportunity to compete in over 150 specific categories through the Tri-Com competition.

nurturing artistic ability while forming a deeper connection with God

Instrumental Music

We offer a broad variety of piano and instrumental instruction. Students may begin taking private piano lessons in third grade and continue with lessons up to and including twelfth grade. We also provide many opportunities for our students to gain poise and experience by playing in chapel services, recitals, and competitions. Our piano students have placed in solo and duet performances in various competitions, including the NCCSA Fine Arts Competition and the TriCom competition.

Our music staff also offers private lessons in a substantial array of band and orchestral instruments, including brass, woodwinds, strings, and percussion. Students may apply for private lessons in fourth grade and may continue up to and including twelfth grade. These students also participate in our FCA Band program, practicing as a group typically two to three times per week. Our band students are given many opportunities to perform in chapel services, programs, concerts, and competitions. Our FCA Band and various instrumental solo and ensemble groups have placed in five NCCSA competitions, with several 1st place solo finishes.

DISCLAIMER: Not all band and orchestral instruments are offered every school year. If there is not a teacher available, instruments offered will be postponed until the following school year. Band is offered only when there are enough students to form a proper band.

vocal music

We offer all students the opportunity to develop their vocal skills through various levels of vocal training. Elementary students partake in group lessons each week during the school year. These lessons help them develop a joy for music and allow them time to prepare for various competitions and other opportunities to sing. As early as fourth grade, students who desire individual instruction may apply for private voice lessons. Those lessons may continue throughout their years at FCA up to and including twelfth grade.

In addition to our elementary music program, our middle school and high school students are given the opportunity to participate in various groups, including choir, ensembles, chorale, quartets, trios, duets, and solos. Our students utilize their acquired skills each spring during the NCCSA Fine Arts Competition. Over the past decade, FCA elementary vocal groups have placed every year in competition, including four 1st place finishes. Our junior high and senior high vocal groups have placed in ten NCCSA competitions, including four 1st place finishes, with multiple superior ratings. In 2011, our high school choral group competed nationally in the American Association of Christian Schools Fine Arts Competition at Bob Jones University. Our high school students have also enjoyed great success at the annual TriCom competition.

Dr. Carl Ashley

Music Director

“Martin Luther wrote, ‘Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world.’ It is a privilege to have the opportunity to share God’s gift of music with the students; to nurture them musically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually; and to instill a life-long love and appreciation for the art, not only for their own enjoyment, but also as a profound means of worshiping God.”

BM in music education from university of florida | MM in church music & choral Conducting from Westminster Choir college | mA in ministry from luther rice college & seminary | dMA in choral conducting from university of miami | 15+ years teaching experience in elementary, middle school, high school & college levels | 40+ years of experience as a church musician | published composer/arranger | 1 year teaching Experience at FCA

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Individual music lesson information

what are indivudualized music lessons?

Individual music lessons offer a personalized approach to learning an instrument that goes beyond what group classes can provide. With our dedicated teachers, your child can receive focused feedback on technique, progress at their own pace, and explore musical styles of interest. This one-on-one environment fosters a strong foundation in musicianship, builds confidence, and allows students to develop a unique musical voice.

who can apply?

Students entering 3^rd grade or higher may apply for individual piano lessons. Students entering 4^th grade or higher may apply for individual band or voice lessons. The Music Department makes all final acceptance decisions. If accepted, continuation of lessons is contingent upon the student abiding by home practice and lesson attendance policies as set forth in the Music Department Handbook. Also, student participation is mandatory for all concerts and recitals as well as rehearsals. Offering individual music lessons allows Faith Christian Academy the opportunity to expand the artistic and spiritual growth of its students by fostering a love for music.

how much does it cost?

Individual lessons in piano, band, or voice costs $550 for the school year. However, this amount is subject to change. Method books for piano and band are billed separately and in addition to the cost of lessons.

when are lessons scheduled?

All individual music lessons are schedule during the school day. Integrating music lessons into the school day unlocks a wealth of benefits for students. Firstly, it eliminates scheduling conflicts and transportation hurdles that can hinder participation in after-school programs. This ensures greater access and removes barriers for students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to learn an instrument or improve vocal skills. Secondly, the proximity to academic subjects allows for interesting cross-curricular connections. Music theory can reinforce math skills, while ensemble playing fosters teamwork and communication, valuable assets in any classroom. Finally, incorporating music throughout the day provides a natural stress reliever and creative outlet, potentially boosting focus and overall well-being during core academic subjects. By embedding music lessons within the school day, students reap a holistic educational experience that benefits both their artistic and academic development.

still have questions? check out the music handbook!

music handbook