Meet the Director, Paul Bruce!

Mr. Paul Bruce teaches K–8 music at Deer Park School and serves as the Instructor of Brass at Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the University of Montana and a Master of Music in Music Education from Montana State University. While completing his Master’s of Music Education, Paul completed his capstone project on beginning band curriculum.

Mr. Bruce’s primary instruments are tuba and bass trombone, and he performs regularly throughout the Flathead Valley. His experience includes playing with the Flathead Valley Community Band as well as the Glacier Symphony and Orchestra. In addition to his work at Deer Park and FVCC, he currently serves as President of the Rural Music Teachers Association (RMTA), where he helps organize and direct mass band festivals featuring more than 100 rural school musicians each spring.

Outside the classroom and concert hall, Mr. Bruce enjoys running, teaching low brass students at the Flathead Lake Music Camps in the summer, and playing video games. He is thrilled to work with this talented group of young musicians and looks forward to sharing the joy of making music together!

Is there an audition?

Yes! We recommend you complete the audition elements, then fill out the application form. The audition itself contains two parts.

Part one: Submitting your audition video: Use this link to find your student's specific instrument materials. After recording a video of your student playing the etude, please do one of the following:

1. Upload the video to YouTube. The video does not need to be public. Have the link ready to paste into the application form.

2. Email your video to auditions@beargrassperformingarts.org. In the email, please include your student's first/last name.

Then, fill out the application and upload your video! Application form link

What is the cost of participation?

Tuition for participation will be $225/semester. Bear Grass Performing Arts maintains a commitment to eliminating finance as a barrier to participation. We have generous donors who have helped build a scholarship fund to offset any tuition hardships. Please contact info@beargrassperformingarts.org for more information.

Why does participation cost so much?

Bringing quality music education instruction to young musicians is no small task. Here is a comparison of other activity costs around the state and country.

• Helena Youth Symphony: $150 per semester

• Dance (Kalispell-based): ~$300 / semester plus costume/uniform fees

• Private lessons: ~ $300 / semester ($75/month)

The price point for FVYC ($225/semester) allows us to bring quality music education to students, at a comparable rate to other youth performing arts activities.

Should I have my student take private lessons or apply for the Youth Band?

Both opportunities will help young musicians grow their abilities! The Youth Band program will provide direct small-group instruction on your student’s instrument as part of the program. Think of it as a mini group lesson - all of the clarinets together at one time receiving clarinet-only instruction, like a mini-lesson! We encourage families to consider both opportunities.

Are their scholarships available?

Yes! Our vision is that no student interested in participating should be prevented from participating because of financial need. Students and families in need of financial assistance should reach out to info@beargrassperformingarts.com for more information.

What age of students are able to participate in the Flathead Valley Youth Chorus?

This ensemble is geared towards beginning band students, which for our area means 6th grade! Occasional 5th or 7th grade students may be considered.

Will band be a good experience for my child?

Yes! Band is a great way for beginning musicians to gain musical skills and confidence in a group setting. If your child enjoys music and playing already, the youth band provides them with a fun and inviting setting for them to pursue their interests and grow in their knowledge.

What college/career benefits are there from playing and instrument?

Many colleges and businesses look favorably upon students who have shown the dedication and commitment required to be involved with any musical organization. Students who learn to work in an ensemble setting gain skills in organization, listening and attention to detail. They are more successful in interview situations and show confidence in all areas of performance. Many colleges offer scholarships to musically capable students, without requiring them to be a music major. This allows them to continue to playing in an academic environment, without incurring extra expense.

What is the schedule for participation?

The Flathead Valley Youth Band will rehearse on Wednesday nights from 4:45-6:00PM in the Kalispell Middle School band room. The full calendar will be released soon!