Merit Youth Outreach

2013 MERIT Dates: July 1–12

The Music Academy of the West is home to a unique outreach program that sharpens young minds through an intensive regimen of music performance and instruction. Inaugurated in 1998, the MERIT (Music Education Reinforces Intellect and Talent) Program provides musicians ages 11 to 17 with a two-week immersion in the Academy’s Summer School and Festival, along with mentoring from Academy Fellows. Participants take part in dynamic masterclasses and daily rehearsals, receive personalized training, and perform as part of a chamber ensemble. The program culminates each year with a public recital.

Acceptance to the MERIT Program requires a successful audition.

The MERIT Program is supported by Bel Air Investment Advisors, the Henry E. and Lola Monroe Foundation, the Cheeryble Foundation, the Johnson Ohana Charitable Foundation, Connie Frank and Evan Thompson, Michelle and Michael O’Brien, Patricia and Larry Durham, Paul Guido and Stephen Blain, and Goldman Sachs.

How to Apply

Mail your completed application form and TWO completed reference forms (these may be mailed separately) to:
MERIT Program
Music Academy of the West
1070 Fairway Road
Santa Barbara, CA 93108-2899
For more information, call 805.695.7910.
Please note: Applications for 2013 are no longer being accepted.