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About Us

Great Classical Music Since 1947

Our MISSION

The mission of the Music Academy of the West is to provide classically trained musicians and diverse audiences with transformative educational and performance experiences. We support musicians to expand their talents, inspire each other, and pursue artistic innovation.

Located in Santa Barbara, the Music Academy of the West creates a space where exceptional talent can thrive by encouraging artists to stretch, experiment, improvise, and play. The Academy provides classically trained musicians and diverse audiences with transformative educational and performance experiences. The Music Academy’s programs include an annual eight-week Summer School & Music Festival which trains up to 150 fellows ages 18-34 and presents more than 130 performances and events, competitions, and a fully staged opera; Sing!, a children’s choir that performs with local, national, and international partners; the MAX (Music Academy Exchange) partnership with international orchestras; the innovative Alumni Enterprise Awards; and the Mariposa Series of concerts by Academy-affiliated artists.

The 2025 Summer School & Festival takes place June 15 through August 9.

Meet Our Administration and Artists

Teaching & Guest Artists

View our roster of world-class Academy artists.

Fellows & Studio Artists

Learn about our latest roster of young musicians, representing the top music conservatories across the globe.

Administration

Board of Directors

National Advisory Council

Interested in Employment Opportunities?

We have may have positions on our team and exciting opportunities for our fellows and alums.

SUBSCRIBER EARLY ACCESS

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One of the most valuable benefits of subscribing is early access to our signature special events.
You must be logged into your account to gain early access.

Once logged in, if you have access to book the subscriber early-access event below, you will be prompted to choose your seats. Otherwise, you will be able to book this event on the single ticket on-sale date.