Los Angeles Music Academy in Pasadena, Calif., announces that it has met all requirements by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) to offer students a Professional Associates of Arts Degree in Music Performance. Beginning in fall 2009, students will be able to select a music performance major in drums, guitar, bass or vocals.
“We are grateful that NASM has recognized our efforts and granted the school this qualification,” says Tom Aylesbury, president of LA Music Academy. “To be able to provide a professional degree to our students demonstrates the passion all of us have to educate musicians, turn them into professionals and prepare them for the real world. Required upper level and elective courses will round out education and personalize each student’s experience beyond instrumental training.”
Graduates with music degrees have broad career opportunities. Besides performing, directing, producing and composing, they can find employment in studio management or teaching private lessons, for example. Aylesbury says, “While attending LA Music Academy, students can expect to network and build meaningful relationships with peers and instructors that help expand future employment opportunities.”
LA Music Academy states that according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (current data through 2016), the music industry will see a rise in employment opportunities for musicians and singers (10 percent), music directors and composers (13 percent), related music industry jobs (10 percent) and post-secondary education (23 percent). “Completing the Degree Program will have our graduates feeling right at home here in the heart of the music world.”
LA Music Academy’s A.A. Degree in Music Performance is a one-and-a-half-year (six quarters) program that develops relevant skills in instrumental technique, performance and musicianship as they relate to contemporary music styles. As a Professional A.A. Degree, the A.A. program does not include general education requirements and will not transfer to another institution.
Since the school opened in 1996, it has graduated more than 1,000 domestic and international students. Known for its small class sizes and friendly atmosphere, the school’s competitive admissions process assures that students are challenged and inspired daily by their peers and instructors. From day one, students are thrust into performance situations where they are required to play with professional, working musicians from the Southern California area. This, combined with regular clinics and appearances by acclaimed touring groups and artists, is what has made the school so desirable for those seeking a complete and modern music education.
LA Music Academy is committed to providing equal opportunity to all students and participates in “Title IV,” a Federal Student Aid program consisting of various grant and loan options. Additionally, the school offers scholarships to students who apply and meet the necessary requirements. Academy-based scholarships are awarded to domestic and international students who demonstrate exceptional musical potential as determined by the Scholarship Committee.
For more information about LA Music Academy, visit www.lamusicacademy.edu. Contact Iris Alba in admissions at 626/568-8850 or e-mail [email protected]. LA Music Academy is located at 370 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena, Calif., 91105.
