The Santa Monica Academy of Music: Programs

Individual Instruction
At the Santa Monica Academy of Music, we believe nothing compares to individual attention; therefore, private instruction is at the heart of the Academy. We offer private lessons in piano, guitar, voice, flute, clarinet, saxophone, violin, cello, mandolin, music theory, ear training, composition, and songwriting. An interview is required prior to enrolling.

The rates for weekly private lessons are as follows:

30 minutes @ $35.00
45 minutes @ $52.50
60 minutes @ $70.00

Lessons are billed by the month. Lesson length is determined by the Academy, instructor, and student after the student's initial interview. An annual $30.00 per family registration fee is charged for all students enrolled in private lessons. This fee covers enrollment and special event costs.

Select piano teachers at the Academy are members of Music Teachers Association of California (MTAC). Students studying under them are eligible to participate in all MTAC events and programs, including the Certificate of Merit program. If you are interested please let us know when enrolling and we will pair your child with a participating MTAC teacher.

Age Requirements
Please note that there are age requirements to enroll in private lessons. We usually require Suzuki violin students to be at least 4-5 years old; piano students to be 5-6 years old; guitar and voice students to be 7-8 years old. All students are different, though. A free assessment may be asked for if your child is at the border of these age requirements.

Group Instruction
Music can be a social activity and students benefit from learning with others. Our group classes include the successful Music for Little Mozart's Group Piano Classes. This class is designed specifically for children that are not yet old enough to be enrolled in private piano lessons, usually 4 and 5 year olds. Group class prices vary according to the number of weeks in the session. Please see the Current Class Schedule page for current prices.

Recitals

Performing music is a thrilling and enriching experience that should be available to anyone who is learning an instrument. The Santa Monica Academy of music provides all students enrolled in private lessons with the opportunity to participate in our semi-annual recitals. These recitals are popular events at which students share their passion for making music with their friends and family.

Students can also gain inspiration from seeing their teachers perform; therefore, we hold annual instructor recitals. The Academy is privileged to have an exceptional faculty, many of whom are dedicated performers.