Causes: Arts & Culture, Music

Mission: The charleston academy of music is a non-profit organization whose mission is to empower students to become achievers by providing superior professional music instruction and performance opportunities.

Programs: Academic program the academic program provides a complete music education of the highest quality to prepare students for professional careers as musicians, music educators, and lifelong advocates of classical music. Students of the academic program may choose to receive musical instruction in piano, jazz piano, voice, violin, viola, cello, classical guitar, jazz guitar, flute, clarinet, and harp. Musical instruction includes private lessons and various classes, such as theory, ear training, composition, masterclasses and performance classes, as well as string ensembles and guitar orchestra. All students will have many performance opportunities throughout each semester. The prgram has approximately 180 students drawn from the local area. The program was conducted by 20 experienced music teachers and typically lasted for 30 lessons. Theory and composition classes all students are encouraged to attend one of these two theory classes: mondays at 6:00pm: theory and ear training. This class is a fun and interactive class suitable for beginners and intermediate level students of all instruments, including voice. No previous experience is necessary. Saturdays at 10:00am: composition and songwriting. This class is for the students to learn to utilize their musical knowledge and instrumental skills to produce their own compositions. To attend this class, note reading ability and basic theory knowledge are required. In addition, students are also welcome to utilize the computer-based theory learning program, available in our lobby at all times. Students must first contact the office or their teacher to set up an account, and then participate in the self-guided program. Access to the computer is on a first-come, first-served basis. Honors program the organization conducts an honors program. This program provides music lessons on an intensive level to select young talented students who demonstrate a financial need. Scholarships are offered through the honors program to talented and serious students who are committed to their music education and wish to pursue careers in classical music. Students enter the honors program through an audition process. They will have the opportunity to work with renowned performers and educators. Further, in 2016 we accomplished the following: 1.We provided community concert series, called rush hour concerts, free of charge featuring cam faculty and guest artists. 2.We conducted a summer camp at the academy which culminated in a performance open to the public free of charge. 3.Our students performed at least six outreach concerts in various venues of the community, including retirement homes and churches, as well as piccolo spoleto festival. 4.In december 2016 we started a community sing initiative. Led by our voice and piano faculty, members of the community were invited to sing along traditional songs from different cultures.