MUSICAL MENTORS ACADEMY
Program Overview
Musical Mentors Academy (MMA) is a private-lesson program that partners with public schools, non-profits, community centers, and other arts organizations to offer subsidized one-on-one music instruction for dedicated and ambitious students. Lessons are taught by MMC’s impressive roster of Teaching Artists who not only offer stellar instruction but bespoke mentorship. To address the multitude of barriers to private music lessons, MMC offers this program both online or in-person depending on each student’s individualized needs as well as works with partner organizations to address other inequities that make private music instruction less accessible. MMC is flexible with our programming to ensure we can meet the needs of the ever-changing communities that we serve.
Students receive lessons with an assigned Musical Mentor as well as additional lessons, masterclasses, and workshops with MMC’s roster of Grandmentors. We take a personalzied approach to pairing students with their Musical Mentor, allowing them to build meaningful and consistent relationships which can empower them to succeed in their musical journey and beyond. MMA students perform in studio classes and public performances, participate in monthly workshops and masterclasses both in person and online, and receive scholarship opportunities for additional enrichment learning such as summer festivals and preparatory programs.
Who
MMA is for dedicated middle school students (grades 6-8) and high school students (grades 9-12). MMA students want to improve instrumental technique, develop solo and ensemble skills, explore repertoire, and strengthen their performance skills. Our programming is offered to students who have previously excelled in their music classes and/or private lessons, as well as in collaboration with partner organizations for novice students who have an interest and passion for music.
Some students may be looking to be accepted into high-school or collegiate music programs or have ambitions of becoming professional musicians. Some students may want to be more competitive within their school ensembles, audition for a regional ensemble, or participate in an all-state ensemble. Others may be newer to music but eager to learn. Whatever the motivation – MMA students are willing to commit to lessons, workshops, masterclasses, performance opportunities, and community events during the school year (September/October through May) to advance their own musicianship.
Program Cost
The cost of the program is determined with each partner organization and/or individual student to ensure equitable access. The true cost per student is $3,250 and MMC subsidizes this fee thanks to individual donors, grants, and foundations. Fees range from $500-$1,500/student and scholarships are available based on financial need.
Cost Includes
- Twenty 60-minute lessons
- Monthly workshops or masterclasses with MMC Grandmentors
- Two performance opportunities
- Practice-to-Own Instruments
Instruments
MMC provides instruments to students who need one at no additional cost.
2024/25 School Year Performance Opportunities
TBD
How to Register
Registration will open mid-August and closes mid-September. Please check the application closure dates listed below. Late registrations may be accepted if space is available, but will incur a $25 late registration fee to cover delayed application processing.