The Facts About FACS
Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Rachel Hendrick
Everything is an art. Bluefield University carries this sentiment through the Fine Arts Community School (FACS). Melissa Yowell is an adjunct music faculty member and FACS coordinator.
“Founded in 1993, Bluefield University’s Fine Arts Community School (FACS) is a vibrant outreach program offering high-quality fine arts instruction to the greater Bluefield area. Open to students of all ages and backgrounds—including homeschoolers—FACS provides accessible opportunities to explore and develop artistic talents in piano, voice, strings, and more,” Yowell said.
FACS offers classes, lessons, workshops, and programs each semester. Private music lessons are taught by dedicated instructors who are certified and approved by the university to teach the instruments and skills.
“We currently offer private music instruction in piano, voice, violin, and cello,” Yowell said. “Additionally, we are exploring opportunities to reintroduce guitar lessons and launch early childhood music classes designed for toddlers through pre-kindergarten students and their parents.”
FACS offers a variety of classes, including a pottery class. FACS also includes seasonal and summer lessons that fluctuate from year to year. These seasonal classes are offered by the usual teachers as well as community members who are approved and willing to teach a lesson or workshop. In years past, FACS even had a seasonal puppet-making course for community members.
“We’re thrilled to welcome a new cello instructor and two additional piano instructors to the FACS team,” Yowell said. “In September, we also introduced a new policy designed to bring greater structure and consistency throughout the school year, while maintaining flexibility during the summer months—for the benefit of both students and instructors.”
Through FACS, students learn new skills and have the opportunity to demonstrate them through recitals. This helps develop concert etiquette and celebrate the achievements of FACS students.
“Led by experienced instructors with professional training, FACS emphasizes both artistic excellence and educational integrity,” Yowell said. “Through private lessons, workshops, and seasonal programs, the school fosters creativity, collaboration, and cultural engagement.”
For those interested in the facts about FACS, details about rates, times, and registration are available through the FACS handbook. Available to anyone interested in the program, the handbook provides details on just about any question someone may have, from monthly rates to student conduct.
“Anyone interested in receiving private instruction in piano, voice, violin, cello or guitar can fill out an interest form at bluefield.edu/facs,” Yowell said. “Private instruction and classes, when offered, are held on the BU campus.”