Headwaters Summer Sampler Special

Thinking about learning an instrument, but not sure where to start? Try out what feels right with our Summer Music Sampler- a fun, flexible way for kids, teens, and adults to explore music lessons at a discounted rate!

June - August, 2026 | $100.00 for 4 Lessons

Share your Voice!

As part of our organization’s strategic planning, we want to hear from our community! We currently have two surveys available: one for current participants, and a separate survey for members of our wider community who have not yet joined the Headwaters family. We appreciate your time and input as we plan for the future!

A group of adults and children smile together while sitting among large blue foam blocks.

“What truly sets Headwaters apart is its commitment to accessibility, offering sliding-scale tuition and scholarships to ensure that financial limitations do not hinder participation. The organization offers a wide range of opportunities, from private music lessons to group art classes, making it a versatile hub for creativity in northern Minnesota.”

-Joe Gould, Beltrami County Commissioner

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Discover the joy of creativity at Headwaters Music & Arts!

Headwaters Music & Arts: A center for creativity in the center of Bemidji

Headwaters Music & Arts began offering music lessons in Bemidji as a nonprofit over 30 years ago, with 7 teachers for 72 students. In 1997, we moved to our current location at 519 Minnesota Ave and became a full-service school of the arts.

Because of incredible community support in the form of time, materials, expert advice, and donations, Headwaters has grown into a gathering place where students and community members of any age can experience a wide variety of arts activities, ranging from recitals and rock band shows to clay, mural painting, and other fine arts.

Picture of Headwaters Music & Arts building and a black sign with the Headwaters logo in primary colors

Upcoming Events & Announcements

  • Headwaters Choir Camp: August 17th-21st, 2026

    Camp: August 17-21 from 8:30 am-12:30 pm at Headwaters Music & Arts

    Cost: $200/participant.

    ($40 Non-refundable deposit)

    Financial Assistance is Available based on need: Financial Assistance Application

    Headwaters Choir Camp is a week-long experience for young singers to build confidence, develop vocal technique, and learn to sing in harmony with others.

    Campers will explore a variety of songs—from pop favorites to rounds and partner pieces—while practicing healthy vocal habits. The week concludes with a final performance for family and friends.

    Led by experienced music instructors Megan Moen.  

    Final performance on Friday, August 21 at 12:00pm.

  • Conversing In Music: Jazz Improv Weekend!

    Jazz Improv Concert: Friday, September 25th at 7:00 pm | Admission: $25 for Adults or $7 for Students

    Jazz Improv Masterclass: Saturday, September 26th at 11 AM | Class Fee: $20 for Adults or $10 for Students

    What if the music had no script? This September, internationally recognized improvising composers Steve Hirsh and Nathan Hanson are bringing a one-of-a-kind weekend to Bemidji.

    Join us for a live community concert on Friday evening and continue the experience with an interactive masterclass on Saturday morning.

    Whether you're a musician, music lover, or simply curious about improvisation, this is a chance to experience something completely unique.

    This activity is made possible, in part, by a grant from the Bemidji Area Arts Endowment, a component fund of the Northwest Minnesota Foundation.

  • Spooky Candle Lanterns Pottery Night

    Class: Saturday, October 10, 2026, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm at Headwaters Music & Arts

    Cost: $80.00

    Financial Assistance is Available based on need: Financial Assistance Application

    Looking for a unique fall date night or a creative evening out with a friend? Slow down, get creative, and celebrate the season with a hands-on pottery experience designed for two. This 21+ workshop invites you to relax, sip, and create side by side—participants are welcome to bring an alcoholic beverage to enjoy responsibly during class.

    Led by master potter Tom Daly, pre-thrown lantern forms, carving tools, and stencils are provided so you can focus on creativity, connection, and enjoying the process together. Choose your glaze color, enjoy a seasonal treat from Headwaters, and return later to pick up your finished lantern—fired, glazed, and ready to cast a warm, enchanting glow throughout the fall season.

    No pottery experience is necessary. Cost includes admission for two participants.

Get Involved at Headwaters

  • Two women sitting behind a table with a Headwaters Music & Arts banner at an outdoor event. The table has craft supplies, a small sign, and a rainbow-colored ribbon decoration. A few other people are visible in the background under a canopy and around the event area.

    Support Headwaters

    Volunteer, donate, participate - there are so many ways you can support Headwaters Music & Arts.

  • Local band playing instruments during an Open Mic event at Headwaters Music & Arts

    Community-Led Activities

    Headwaters is home to several groups led by volunteers from the community. Open Mic, First City Singers, Campfire Jam, Handbell Choir, and more!

  • Headwaters Music & Arts Adult Rock Band students performing playing instruments like the drums, guitar, bass, & singing

    Group Music

    At Headwaters you can participate in group music activities, from youth choir camp to preschool music to forming a rock band!