Tuition & Registration
At MCS, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn a band instrument and grow in confidence, teamwork, and musical skill.
Our tuition model supports a full nine-month school year of band instruction and performance—designed to fit easily into your family’s rhythm while delivering exceptional value.
Tuition Overview
- Tuition covers the entire nine-month academic year and may be paid in full at registration, or via an automatic electronic transfer (ACH) for nine months, September through May.
- A one-semester commitment (half the school year/half year tuition payment) is required, ensuring students have time to settle in and make meaningful progress before making a decision, if they decide to drop.
- Please note: tuition does not apply to the rental or purchase of instruments. Families are welcome to use personal instruments, and MCS maintains a limited number of school-owned instruments available on a first-come, needs-based basis.
- Financial assistance is available for families with demonstrated need—please see below for more information.
Rates
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Individual Student – $720/year ($80/month via ACH)
- Family Tuition
– 2 Students – $1,125/year ($125/month via ACH)
– 3 Students – $1,305/year ($145/month via ACH) - Individual Student Qualifying for Reduced Lunch – $360/year ($40/month via ACH)
- Individual Student Qualifying for Free Lunch – $270/year ($30/month via ACH)
What’s Included
Your tuition covers:
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Weekly small-group band instruction from certified music teachers
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Weekly ensemble rehearsal (where your school has five or more band students)
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Music books and lesson materials
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Two major concerts each year (one in December, one in May) plus other enriching activities like Band Clinic, Solo/Ensemble Festival, and Pep Band events
Registration Steps
- Complete the Registration Form online by clicking the button below (or via paper copy) by the deadline designated by your school.
- Choose your tuition payment option: full payment at registration or monthly automatic payments.
- Review and sign the Program Commitment confirming the minimum one-semester participation requirement.
- If applying for financial assistance, submit the Assistance Application (PDF linked below) by the financial-aid deadline.
Important Notes for Families
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Ensuring your student attends lessons and rehearsals is crucial—consistency leads to growth in instrument proficiency, reading music, and musicianship.
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While we work to provide shared school-owned instruments, availability is limited—families are encouraged to secure an instrument early.
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After-school or before-school scheduling may occasionally be required depending on your school’s timetable—please plan accordingly.
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MCS reserves the right to withdraw a student from the program if tuition payments are not kept current.
Tuition Assistance
Music in Catholic Schools (MCS) offers limited tuition assistance to families in financial need so that every child has the opportunity to participate in band. Assistance is awarded based on financial circumstances and student commitment to the program.
Key Points:
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Tuition assistance funds are limited and awarded to families with demonstrated financial need.
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Families qualifying for free or reduced lunch automatically qualify for reduced tuition.
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Additional assistance may be available through the application form for special circumstances.
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Instrument loans may be available; indicate need on the application.
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Students receiving assistance must stay committed: regular practice, class attendance, and responsibility are expected.
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Participation in fundraising events is encouraged to help support the program.
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Applications may be submitted by email or mail (see PDF for details).
You can donate to a fund that supports MCS through The Catholic Future Foundation. Search “music” on the Give Online page.
Scholarships & Memorials
Support one of these funds through the Catholic Future Foundation by clicking the individual buttons for each scholarship or memorial. Click below to learn more about the CFF.
Elizabeth Elliott Memorial Scholarship
Elizabeth Elliott was an outstanding alumnus of MCS. She was a wonderful musician and flute player.
All returning MCS students are eligible for this scholarship, but the priority for selected students will be those who attend St. Wenceslaus or St. Pius/St. Leo schools.
Joseph F. Havelka Music Appreciation Fund
This fund was started in the name of Joseph F. Havelka who was a staunch supported of Music in Catholic Schools. Joseph and family wanted to set up a sustainable fund that would support Music in Catholic Schools for years to come.
Debra J. Lund Honorary Scholarship
Deb Lund was the MCS Director for 41 years. She built this program from the ground up and we are so thankful for her contributions.
All returning MCS students are eligible for this scholarship.
Professor Charles L. Miller Memorial Scholarship
MCS students at Gethsemane Lutheran, Holy Name, Jesuit Academy, Sacred Heart, St. Bernard, St. Paul Lutheran, and St. Philip Neri (Professor Miller’s schools) who are returning to band for a second, third, or fourth year may apply.
MCS / Parochial Band Program Endowment
This fund was established in 1983, only a few years after Music in Catholic Schools began. To date, it has already distributed more than its principal value – an amazing legacy that has been supported by so many supporters of Music in Catholic Schools.
Al, Clara, & Don Phillips Memorial Scholarship
The Phillips Family has been a tremendous supporter of Music in Catholic Schools over the years.
All returning MCS students are eligible for this scholarship, but the priority for selected students will be those who attend Our Lady of Lourdes School.
The Brian M. Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund
Brian Smith was a former MCS student who died in 2008 at age 20 of a heart defect while on a UNL science/spring break trip to Puerto Rico. Brian was a wonderful musician who got his start on percussion in MCS.
All returning MCS students are eligible for this scholarship.
Joe Wolf Memorial Scholarship
MCS students at Our Lady of Lourdes who are returning to band for a second, third, or fourth year may apply.