Family Conferences is a non-denominational evangelical Christian ministry, governed by a board of directors and is not run by any particular church or denomination.

While Sound Foundations does not provide private lessons for students, it is our goal to use opportunities such as choral sectional rehearsals or orchestra rehearsals (audition required) to give vocal and instrumental instruction.

Since the purpose of the course is geared towards equipping students with tools for ministry, there are a lot of classroom hours. However, many of them are hands-on or involve assignment completion time within the class time. For details, check out our sample schedule.

All students are welcome to send in an audition to participate in the Sound Foundations orchestra. Please note however that the music selections are very technical and advanced so the opportunity will be limited to those who are able to play this level of music well.

If you’re interested in participating in this opportunity visit our audition page for more information.

The voice is the perfect instrument, created by God, and if we can use it with excellence, it will bring excellence to the rest of our music. Every day, Sound Foundations students enjoy two hours of choral training – and while most students don’t come as vocalists, many conclude at the end of the course that their favorite class was choir. In addition, the lessons learned in tackling fun and challenging music under skilled conductors cross over into every other area of music.

Yes! Parents/adults are welcome to sit in on some classes as observers (not participants). For this, they need to specify if they are just observing a single class, or choosing to officially audit parts of the course. For details, please email [email protected].

As a grand finale to our three weeks together, we’re excited for all levels of Sound Foundations students to present a formal final concert for their family and friends. For details on the final concert, click here.

We encourage you to lead the way in the classroom by wearing clothing that is traditional, classic, and professional, inviting your peers to take you and your skills seriously. As we focus on equipping students for excellence, our choice of clothing can drive us towards, or distract us from that goal.

• Classroom: Business/Professional – classically styled skirts/dresses for girls, slacks/collared shirts for guys
• Performances: Dress/Formal (Solid black – long dresses for girls, suits for guys, black shoes)
• Recreation: Casual (keep it modest-fitting: nothing stretchy, clingy, or revealing)

For more details on the Sound Foundations dress code, check out the Orientation Manual.

In addition to your instrument, some study items, and clothing that adheres to the course guidelines, we’ve compiled a full packing list for you. Please check it out in our orientation manual.

Due to the intense class schedule, we don’t encourage mid-course visits, however if students’ families need to drop in, please communicate these visits with their team leaders or the course coordinators with as much advance notice as possible. Please note, the Sound Foundations schedule is intentionally full and does not permit for much (if any) outside activities or visiting. Family members are welcome to stay on campus before or after the course. For details on room and meal reservations, please contact the International ALERT Academy Events Department.

All meals, including a continental breakfast, and full lunch and dinner are served in the campus dining hall. Our dining hall features a full cafeteria line, so there are always plenty of options. Please let us know about any dietary restrictions on your application, or within one month of the course start date, so we can plan appropriately.

The weekend meal schedule is as follows: 

• Saturday, Brunch @ 10:30am, and Dinner @ 4:30pm
• Sunday, Bag lunch (Pick up at Sat. Dinner) Dinner @ 4:30pm

Prior to the weekends, snacks and drinks will be available for purchase in the campus bookstore, or you can bring your own.

Yes! If you have prayerfully confirmed that the Lord is leading you to participate in one of these music courses, and finances restrict your enrollment, we want to help. We have a limited amount of scholarships available. Please contact us so we can find a good fit for you.

Yes, but not much! Personal practice can take place during study halls, in the mornings and evenings, and on weekends. In order to maximize the benefits of this course, most students put most personal music aside for the duration of the course.

Click here to download the orientation manual.

Also, feel free to contact the Music Office at [email protected].