Michigan Academy of Folk Music (MAFM) offers adult musicians (or soon to be musicians) an unparalleled opportunity in West Michigan. While working through the comprehensive and methodical MAFM curriculum, students are immersed into a group learning atmosphere where they are pushed to go beyond the page and experience music as first and foremost a social activity.
In this social context, students not only gain confidence and technical proficiency on their instrument through group learning and playing, but also grow and develop as truly creative musicians. Group Classes offered in our 10-week session format include:
For class descriptions & pre-requisites, see Course Catalog. Learn about our unique philosophy of education here. If needing assistance with course level placement, please get in touch.
In addition to group classes, our students are invited to participate in our monthly jams, house concerts, workshops and and other community events. Studying at MAFM is more than just taking a class, it’s being welcomed into a musical community.
Adult Group Classes Summer 2026
beginner Bluegrass banjo
Instructor: Joshua Linde
mondays 4:30-5:20
10 week session: June 15 - August 17
beginner Flatpicking GUitar
Instructor: Nate Roberts
tuesdays 4:30-5:20
10 week session: June 17 - August 19
beginner mandolin
Instructor: Nate Roberts
wednesdays 4:30-5:20
10 week session: June 16 - August 18
Jam Class (Mixed Instrument)
Instructors: Nate Roberts & Joshua Linde
thursdays 4:30-5:20
10 week session: June 18 - August 20
Tuition: $240 for 10-week session ($160 for Parents of Youth Program Students), registration deadline June 5th.
Details: Classes appropriate for adults, aged 18 & +. Students must provide their own instrument. If you need instrument recommendations, or have any questions regarding class placement, please get in touch.
Cancellation policy: Must contact us directly via phone or e-mail to cancel your registration. If cancelled within 1 week of scheduled class, payment of 50% of tuition will be expected. Classes subject to cancellation by instructor due to low enrollment 1 week prior to event, in which case payment will be completely refunded. There will be no credits or refunds given due to studio closings for unforeseen circumstances (weather, power outages, instructor illness). However, all effort will be made to reschedule a class following these events.
To Register: Email info@mifolkmusic.com
What are students saying?
“MAFM has given me the perfect opportunity to play acoustic music with others. The ensemble has been educational and challenging, but in a very fun way. Nate is very encouraging and makes the whole experience a positive one. I have learned so much in the past few months!" -Rich T., guitar student
“The ensemble was not just fun, but it changed the way I see music. Nate pushed us gently to do some improv. It helped me to play and create in a way that opened new doors and new possibilities. I feel much more relaxed and free about doing music. One of the things I also greatly appreciate about Nate’s classes are seeing multiple generations playing together. We are planning to keep staying involved and consider it a highlight of our week!” -Lisa V., fiddle student