Music Academy of the West's High School Intensive
2026 Summer Music Festival & School: June 14–25
A program for exceptional instrumentalists, pianists & conductors, ages 14-18. This is an unparalleled opportunity to gain technical mastery and in depth understanding of navigating a career in music. In the spectacular coastal setting of Santa Barbara, students will learn from renowned teaching artists, collaborate with peers equally committed to musical excellence, and perform.
The High School Intensive includes:
- Private lessons: Each student receives three lessons from renowned Music Academy teaching artists.
- Full orchestra performance: Led by Miguel Harth-Bedoya, Distinguished Resident Director of Orchestras & Professor of Conducting at Rice University.
- Chamber music coaching & performances: Pre-college training in a supportive yet rigorous environment.
- Studio classes
- College readiness workshops: Including mock auditions, understanding the audition process, and optimizing recordings.
- Specialized workshops: Hone in on conducting, orchestral excerpts, and collaborative performance.
- Vibrant campus life: Thrive on our stunning Westmont College and Music Academy campuses.
Campus & Housing
Students in the High School Intensive will be housed just minutes from the Academy at Westmont College, a scenic 111-acre campus, featuring ocean views, wooded paths, and extensive amenities.Accommodations include shared rooms with suite-style bathrooms, and daily hot buffet meals in the dining hall. Beyond the classroom, students will have access to a fitness center, pool, an art museum, and gardens. Instruction and select performances will take place at the Academy’s main campus, renowned for its lush gardens, inspiring performance halls, and oceanfront setting, with additional concerts presented throughout Santa Barbara.
Daily Schedule
Participants will take their breakfast at Westmont College, then travel by our private shuttle to the Music Academy for rehearsals, studio classes, and personal practice. The afternoon will encompass lunch at the Music Academy, followed by lessons, rehearsals, coachings, and/or studio classes. The evening will offer dinner at Westmont and a nightly activity such as a movie night or performance.
Eligibility & Auditions
- Ages 14–18
- 10 openings in piano, 91 openings for instrumental, and 4 openings in conducting
- Online Audition required in area of study (instrumental, piano, conducting)
Tuition: $6,000
All-Inclusive: covers housing, meals, instruction & performance opportunities
Limited Scholarships Available
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