The NUCLEO
A supportive community where young musicians in grades 3-12 discover, develop, and share their talents through muisc.
Regisration for new Nucleo students is currently closed.
Spring semester registration will reopen in November 2026 for select openings in:
Please check back in November for registration information and available spaces.
About the Nucleo
The Kidznotes Nucleo Program welcomes students in grades 3–12 to discover, develop, and share their musical talents in a supportive community. Through group lessons and ensembles, students explore strings, winds, and percussion while building confidence, creativity, and teamwork.
Beyond their core music instruction, students can choose from a variety of elective classes that enrich and expand their musical journey. As they advance, students are encouraged to take on leadership roles, participate in community performances, and learn from inspiring guest artists.
Accepted students receive an instrument and essential music supplies to use throughout their time at Kidznotes at no additional cost to families.
Nucleo Student Levels
*New in 2026-2027* Explorers
Students in grades 3-5 with no music experience can apply.
Experience the full orchestra! Students will participate in 5-week rotations of strings, winds, and percussion instruments.
Pioneers
Students in grades 5-6 with no music experience can apply.
Want to jump into beginning strings, winds, or percussion group lessons? Pioneers will learn foundational skills to set them up for success.
Voyagers*
Students in grades 5-6 with at least 1 year of experience on their instrument OR 6th graders new to their instruments and are enrolled in their school band or orchestra.
Trailblazers*
Students in grades 6-8
at least 3 years of experience on their instrument.
Enrollment in your school’s band or orchestra is suggested.
*Application and Kidznotes teacher assessment required for new students.
Maestros*
Students in grades 9-12 playing at a high school level.
This is our auditioned level where students will perform out in the community throughout the year. Past performances include the Carolina Theatre in Durham, Kidznotes gala with celebrity guests, community festivals, and side-by-side concerts with the Durham Symphony Orchestra.
Students will also participate in mentorship training and activities to support younger Kidznotes students.
See What's
Happening
Additional Information
Report an Absence
Log into your DreamClass account to report your student’s absence.
Nucleo Phone Number
984-260-3137
(During program days/hours only)
See Our Work in Action
Check out our YouTube channel to see the accomplishments of our amazing students and staff!
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