Student Life

Live Well, Perform Well

It's not all about music at the Music Academy of the West. The on-stage and off-stage experiences are both of the highest performance. At the Academy, Fellows are invested in personally and professionally and thus participate in a variety of wellness programs, community engagement, and recreational activities throughout the summer.

A Day in the life of a Music Academy Fellow

The Music Academy supplements its intensive musical training program with extracurricular activities and an innovative wellness curriculum. Our goal is to provide Fellows with the tools to maintain a balanced lifestyle as they pursue careers as musicians. Read more »

Campus and Housing

The typical weekday for Fellows starts at Cate School, our residential campus. After breakfast, it’s off to the Music Academy or the Granada Theatre via buses for the instrumentalists and solo and collaborative pianists. Read more »

Extracurricular Activities & Resources

During those rare instances when there is a pause in the music, the Academy organizes social activities that complement the Santa Barbara lifestyle. Fellows are encouraged to take advantage of Cate’s unique setting and outstanding facilities. Read more »

Compeer Program

The Music Academy's unique Compeer Program fosters individual support for Academy Fellows. Compeers are patrons who volunteer their time for one-on-one friendships with Academy Fellows throughout the summer season. Read more »