Parks and Recreation

Metro Parks Music

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

We are located in the Centennial Performing Arts Studios in Centennial Park. Centennial Performing Arts Studios (Map image)

Announcement Regarding Metro Parks Music Division's Summer 2020 Concert Series

Due to the current public health risks with the Covid-19 pandemic and considering Mayor Cooper's Roadmap for Reopening Nashville, Metro Parks has determined it is appropriate to cancel the 2020 Big Band Dance Concert Series, the 2020 Red Caboose Concert Series, and the 2020 Tales At Twilight Series. We know that these events are cherished by the public and this is disappointing, however considering the lasting social distancing guidelines and the unpredictable nature of the virus paired with the phased reopening we feel it is in the best interest of public health, as well as the health of performers and staff, to not host our 2020 Summer concerts. If our situation has improved by summer's end and we have arrived at phase 4 of the reopening, which permits gatherings of more than 100, alternative performances and events may be considered.

Spring Jam Band Classes Return January 13

JamBand students hang out, have fun and play good!

Centennial JamBands returns in 2020 with music classes on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you are a young person ages 8-18 or if you know someone who is, contact us now at 615-862-8440, or email Samuel Frazee.

Students will have a chance to play in a band with people their own age and skill level. We are looks for youth and teens that are playing guitar, bass, drums, Keys and sing as well. Other instruments are also considered. Program participants will have opportunities to perform throughout the year. Many of our former students have reported improved confidence, stage presence and a sense of having found their peer group.

We are excited to feature our talented JamBand students playing Rock-N-Roll covers and originals, live onstage.

The Hartman Park Band

Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hartman Park

Hartman Park Band Performing

The Hartman Park Band (HPB) 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 leader, Parks music instructor Sam Frazee, the group has played regularly for more than 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.

Instructor Sam Frazee says that his favorite part of working with the Hartman Park Band is listening to the musicians joke around and enjoy themselves. He feels that it’s important for aging adults to continue to learn and try new things. “No one is born knowing how to play,” says Frazee, “we all have to learn sometime; and it’s never too late to start!”

You can see the Hartman Park Band in action April 6, 2019 at Bells Bend Park's Outdoor Expo event!

Acoustic Pickin' Parties

Banjo

This event has been suspended until further notice due to COVID-19.

These are held every Tuesday evening from 7 p.m.-8 p.m. in the Centennial Black Box Theater. Bring an acoustic instrument, join the circle and play along. All styles of music welcome, including originals. Great for ear training, developing chops, and learning new tunes. Relaxed environment similar to porch-sitting and pickin' with friends. Come with at least a couple tunes you'd like to play and an open mind. Ages 12 and up. Hosted by Mike Teaney.

Parks Logo

Know Someone Getting a Guitar this Holiday Season?

Parks Music Students play together

Nashville Metro Parks offers several levels of group guitar classes in an affordable, fun, low-pressure situation. Available for ages 8 to 18. Please see our class schedule, or email Sam Frazee for more information. Spring classes begin January 13.

Centennial jamBands

Jam Band Logo

We are getting ready for an exciting spring semester, and we are accepting new students. We have teen and youth rock band classes as well as beginning and intermediate guitar and piano for kids and teens. There are even adult and senior bands and harmonica. You can email Samuel.Frazee@Nashville.Gov for more information.