Schreiber’s Modern Band: The UnSinkables
Our Modern Band program gives older teens and young adults of all abilities the chance to find their sound, build confidence, and truly belong—through the joy of making music together. This isn’t a traditional music class. It’s a hands-on, collaborative experience where participants learn to play, create, and perform the music they love.
Upcoming Performances
April 17
July 19
An Evening with Halley Elwell, Spontaneous Mutation
September 13
What is Modern Band?
Modern Band is an inclusive music program that uses popular styles like rock, pop, hip-hop, and R&B to teach real-world musical skills. Participants can explore instruments such as guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and vocals—no prior experience required.
Why It Matters
Music is more than sound—it’s a powerful tool for growth. In our Modern Band program, participants:
- Build confidence and self-expression
- Develop social and communication skills
- Strengthen teamwork and collaboration
- Experience the pride of performing as part of a group
Every session is adapted to meet everyone’s needs, ensuring that every participant can fully engage and succeed.
A Program for Every Ability
Our musical instructor creates a supportive, adaptive environment where everyone can participate meaningfully. Whether your teen or young adult is picking up an instrument for the first time or already loves music, they’ll find a place here.
What to Expect
- Small group sessions led by a music educator
- Adaptive instruments and supports as needed
- Opportunities to learn songs, improvise, and create original music
- Performances for family and friends
Join the Band
The Modern Band program is open to older teens and young adults receiving services at the Schreiber Center, as well as community participants. Come make music, make friends, and discover what’s possible. Contact us today to learn more or register for an upcoming session. Sessions occur in the spring and fall and the cost to participate is $100 per session.
Musical Instructor
Nathan O. Sheffer is a professor of Music Education at Slippery Rock University. With years of experience teaching middle and high school bands, Nathan brings deep expertise in instrumental music instruction and music methods, alongside a strong commitment to inclusive music education.
Nathan is a veteran music educator, performer, and scholar whose work bridges traditional band pedagogy, modern band, and special education.
In addition to his K–12 and higher education teaching experience Nathan is a Pennsylvania Music Educators Association Modern Band Teacher-Trainer and Students with Exceptionalities Representative.
Donate to Support Modern Band
Contact Us Today
Have questions or want more information?
Get in touch with us to learn more about Schreiber Center for Pediatric Development.