Soundscapes expands to Chesterfield with after-school music program at Beulah Recreation Center

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Soundscapes, a free youth development program that teaches life skills through music, is set to expand to Chesterfield County this winter with an after-school music program.

On Thursday, Dec. 11, Soundscapes announced plans to expand its program to Chesterfield County, starting on Jan. 12, 2026, at the Beulah Recreation Center. The new program is in partnership with Chesterfield County Parks & Recreation.

According to a release from Soundscapes, the pilot program -- which plans to serve 25 students in second and third grades -- will meet three days a week after school. Students will learn about rhythm, note reading and ensemble, playing hands-on using bucket drums, recorders, keyboards and electronic drum pads.

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The free program reportedly aims to help build students' confidence, leadership and positive behavior. Soundscape officials said Chesterfield County will provide a daily snack, with participants expected to showcase their progress in two public concerns during the semester.

“We’re thrilled to offer Soundscapes’ signature after-school program to families in Chesterfield, in partnership with the Beulah Recreation Center,” said Soundscapes Executive Director Carol Minter. “For more than 15 years, we’ve seen the power of music to transform how young people see themselves and their futures. We can’t wait to welcome our first group of Chesterfield students, and to watch the students and the program grow in years to come.”

Elizabeth King, who is known as a local philanthropist and musician, played a key role in developing and refining the program. She and community members collaborated to explore how Soundscape could expand in the Greater Richmond Region.

In 2024, King, along with consultant John Dougherty -- who has stayed involved in the program -- led a successful feasibility study that helped the team identify the Beulah Recreation Center as a promising location.

To register for the program and learn more, click here.