Admissions - Music Academy of the West

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2025 Summer Festival: June 14 - August 10

Music Academy is the ultimate summer training center for today’s artist.

137 musicians from around the world, ages 18-34, study and perform for eight weeks with 60+ teaching and celebrity artists in the spectacular coastal setting of Santa Barbara, California, all just steps from the beach.

Fellows are immersed in opera, orchestra, chamber music, private instruction, public masterclasses, and more. Incredible career-advancing opportunities and a community of friends and colleagues who will be a lifelong network await.

Attend the Music Academy of the West

Applications for the Lehrer Vocal Institute are open until October 15, 2024!

Lehrer Vocal Institute

Voice, Vocal Piano & Directing Fellowships

Apply Now - Deadline Oct 15

Instrumental

Strings, Winds, Brass, Harp & Percussion Fellowships

Applications open Nov 1

Solo Piano

Solo Piano Fellowships

Applications open Nov 1

Collaborative Piano

Collaborative Piano Fellowships

Applications open Nov 1

Hear from our fellows: The next generation of musical leaders.

Music Academy of the West has over 7,000 alumni over our 77-year history. Thousands of world-class performances have graced Academy stages and community venues, all shaped by the transformative experiences here. Hear from our fellows as they share their personal journeys, growth, and the impact of their time at the Academy.

My experience at the Festival was life changing. From performing one of my favorite roles and working on it with incredible artists, to making new lifelong friends and musical connections, to collaborating with fantastic pianists and chamber musicians, to singing for people in current hiring positions. It was all so enlightening and made me feel ready for my next professional engagement!

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Cultivate the tools you need to become not just great musicians, but great leaders.

Private Weekly Lessons
Inspiring daily training
Performances and masterclasses
Off and on-stage mentorship
Wellness program
Community outreach
Competitions with cash prizes

Our Summer Music Festival is a highlight of the Southern California arts community, presenting nearly 130 public events and attended by 40,000 audience members. The Music Academy proudly welcomes everyone from across all cultures and backgrounds to experience the transformative power of music.