WeMA (ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ Music Academy) provides high-quality music education for students of all ages through lessons, classes, chamber music, and performance opportunities.
Our programs offer a well-rounded music education through musicianship, individualized instruction, chamber music, and performance, helping students build strong musical foundations while developing confidence, collaboration, and artistic excellence.
Registration is Open!
Location: 955 La Paz Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93108
Contact: wema@westmont.edu
Call us: 805-565-6040
Harmonize with Community
"Music is the universal language that connects people of all ages, backgrounds, and interests. The ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ Music Department is proud to offer exceptional music instruction led by our dedicated, world-class faculty. We believe that music enriches the lives of all who are involved and this program will be a blessing for all. Through WeMA, we look forward to building closer ties and deepening our relationship with the wider Santa Barbara community."
-Dr. Ruth Lin-
Our Story
WeMA was founded with a vision to create a welcoming community music school where students of all ages can learn, perform, and grow together. Located at ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½, WeMA offers lessons, classes, chamber music, and performance opportunities designed to support each student's musical journey in an encouraging and collaborative environment.
Through exceptional instruction and meaningful musical experiences, WeMA seeks to cultivate artistic excellence while building lasting connections among students, families, teachers, and the greater Santa Barbara community.
Chamber Music
Join our chamber ensembles to collaborate with fellow musicians. Experience the joy of making music together in a supportive environment.
Private Lessons
Our private lessons offer personalized, one-on-one instruction that helps each student develop strong technique, musical understanding, and confidence at a pace that's right for them.
Group Lessons
Learn your instrument in a small-group setting that offers quality instruction in a collaborative and more affordable environment. Students build skills, confidence, and musicianship while learning alongside their peers.
Group Classes
Designed to complement lessons, our group classes strengthen each student's musical foundation through music theory, rhythm, ear training, and musicianship in an engaging, collaborative setting.
Recitals & Workshops
Attend our workshops and informal performances to showcase your talent. Gain confidence and experience in a friendly, encouraging setting.
Our Teachers
WeMA is led by a team of experienced faculty and supported by a diverse group of teaching artists, including ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ alumni and respected local educators. Together, they bring expertise in performance, pedagogy, and music education across all age levels.
Meet Some of Our Teachers
Please contact us with any questions about our faculty or instructors for specific instruments and programs.
A Curriculum for Every Stage
Instruction - Musicianship - Collaboration - Performance
Explore Early Childhood Music Class! (Ages 2-4)
Using play and curiosity, we will study how music and sound work, how ensemble playing works, the best frame of mind for performance and practice, and the theory of music. We may explore writing our own songs, singing songs in canons and with descants, and using the solfeggio hand signs to sing together. Our goals are to increase musicianship, awareness of others, and collaboration and cooperation skills.
Program Guide
Early Childhood Music
A joyful introduction to music through singing, movement, rhythm, and creative play.
Please click below for more information.
Ages: 2–4
Fall Session: August 29 – October 10 (7-week session)
Schedule: Saturdays, 9:00–9:45 AM
Tuition: $150
45-minute weekly class (approximately $21.50 per class)
WeMA's Early Childhood Music class is held on Saturdays at 9am at Reynolds Hall, and introduces young children to the joy of music through singing, movement, rhythm, creative play, and hands-on musical exploration. Parents are encouraged to join. Come and have fun!
Instructor: Laura Walter
"When young children have a musical foundation, we see improvements in memory, problem solving, attention, cooperation, empathy, as well as gains in auditory skills. Singing comes first. We represent sound through movement and song, providing the basis for successful music literacy. Through studying songs, students become fluent in language, and pitch matching. We use canons, partner songs, ostinati, solfeggio, and sound to symbol activities, all established through play and joy. This is music theory in action.
It is not only attention span, but attention depth that music can enhance. We become part of something bigger than ourselves. Playing and singing with others helps lower anxiety. We provide an experience that includes beauty, and a feeling of being a part of something bigger than ourselves through a sense of community." -Laura Walter
Drop-in Classes available with a fee of $30 per class (space permitting)
Please contact wema@westmont.edu to check availability and register for individual classes.
Beginning Violins
Ages: 5–8
Fall Session: August 29 – October 10 (7-week session)
Schedule: Wednesdays, 5:00–5:45 PM & Saturdays 9:00–9:45 AM
Tuition:
Once a week: $280 (7 lessons at $40 per lesson)
Twice a week: $390 (13 lessons at $30 per lesson)
Individual classes: $55 per class
(The individual class option is for families who would prefer to pay week by week rather than commit to the full 7-week session.)
Rooted in the Suzuki method, this class will teach young violin students technical and ensemble skills in a fun, supportive environment. Students will practice and refine skills learned in their individualized lessons, including posture, rhythm, bow hold, and tone production. Parents/caregivers are encouraged to attend class with students to learn how to support practice at home. Start your violin journey at WeMA today!
Violins are available for both rental and purchase. Please email wema@westmont.edu to learn more.
Beginning to Intermediate Violins (9-16)
Ages: 9-16
Fall Session: August 29 – October 10 (7-week session)
Schedule: Fridays, 5:00–5:50 PM & Saturdays 1:30-2:20 PM
Tuition:
Once a week: $350 ($50/class)
Individual classes: $65 per class
(The individual class option is for families who would prefer to pay week by week rather than commit to the full 7-week session.)
This class is designed for beginning and intermediate violin students and provides a supportive and engaging environment for developing technical, musical, and ensemble skills. Students will build a strong foundation in posture, rhythm, bow technique, and tone production while also exploring musical expression, artistry, and the joy of making music together.
Violins are available for both rental and purchase. Please email wema@westmont.edu to learn more.
Piano Academy
Piano Foundations
Ages: 4–7
Fall Session: August 28 – October 10 (7-week session)
Schedule: Tuesday 3:00-3:45PM, Friday 3:00–3:45 PM
Tuition:
- Once a week: $280 ($40/class)
- Twice a week: $455 ($35/class)
Drop-in Classes available with a fee of $60 (space permitting)
Piano Foundations class introduces young children to the piano through singing, games, rhythm activities, keyboard exploration, and creative music-making. Students develop beginning keyboard skills, musical literacy, and expressive playing in a fun, interactive classroom setting. In addition to group activities, each child will have opportunities to work individually with the teacher at the piano, receiving personalized guidance appropriate to their age and level.
Group Lessons
Ages: 6-13
(For Ages 13+ please consider Comprehensive Music Program or Advanced Performance Program)
Level: Beginning & Intermediate
Fall Session: August 28 – October 9 (7-week session)
Duration: 50-minutes
Schedule: Tuesday 4:00–4:50 PM or 5:00–5:50 PM, Friday 4:00–4:50 PM or 5:00–5:50 PM; Saturday between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM
Once a week: $315 (7 group lessons at $45 per lesson)
Twice a week: $455 (13 group lessons at $35 per lesson)
Drop-in option: $55 per group lesson
The drop-in option is for families who prefer to pay for individual group lessons rather than commit to the full 7-week session.
Please provide your availability to help us determine the best group placement and schedule.
Students are placed in small groups according to their age and musical development. Classes emphasize healthy technique, note reading, musicianship, artistic expression, and collaborative music-making.
Class Size: 2–4 students, depending on age and level
Piano Private Lessons
Please see “Private Lessons.â€
Group Lessons
Ages: 6-16
(For Ages 13+ please consider Music Comprehensive Program or Advanced Performance Program)
Instruments: Piano, Violin, Viola, Cello, Flute, Clarinet
Level: Beginning & Intermediate
Fall Session: August 28 – October 9 (7-week session)
Duration: 50-minutes
Schedule: Tuesdays 3:00–7:00 PM, Fridays 3:00–7:00 PM, or Saturdays 10:00 AM–2:00 PM.
The specific 50-minute class time will be determined based on teacher and student availability and group placement.
Tuition: $315 ($45 per class)
Students are placed in small groups according to their age and musical development. Classes emphasize healthy technique, note reading, musicianship, artistic expression, and collaborative music-making. Please provide your availability to help us determine the best group placement.
Class Size: 2–5 students, depending on age and level
WeMA’s Comprehensive Music & Advanced Programs
WeMA's Comprehensive Music Programs provide a well-rounded music education through musicianship, individualized instruction, chamber music, and performance —all within one integrated program. Students are placed according to their age, experience, and musical development, creating a supportive environment where they build strong musical foundations, collaborate with others, and grow as confident musicians.
- WeMA Comprehensive Music Program / Ages 6-18 (click below for details)
- WeMA Advanced Performance Program / Ages 13-18 (click below for details)
Available for: Piano • Violin • Viola • Cello • Flute • Clarinet (If you would like to inquire about an instrument that is not listed here, please contact us at wema@westmont.edu)
Comprehensive Music Program
Ages: 6-16
Fall Session: 7-week session (August 28 – October 10)
Schedule: Saturdays
The WeMA Comprehensive Music Program is designed for beginning through intermediate students and offers a well-rounded approach to musical growth through musicianship class, lessons, chamber music, and performance. Students are thoughtfully placed into small groups according to their age, experience, and musical development.
Program Features
- Weekly musicianship or theory class
- Weekly group or private instruction (fee is different)
- Chamber music for qualified students (3+ years of study)
- Recital opportunities
Program Options
Saturday 10:00–11:00 AM
Musicianship Class + 30-minute Group Lesson
Tuition: $350
Saturday 10:00–11:00 AM
Musicianship Class + 30-minute Private Lesson
Tuition: $525
Saturday 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
Musicianship Class + 30-minute Group Lesson
Tuition: $350
Saturday 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
Musicianship Class + 30-minute Private Lesson
Tuition: $525
Saturday 11:00 AM–12:15 PM
Musicianship Class + 45-minute Private Lesson
Tuition: $665
Chamber music is an essential part of the WeMA Comprehensive Music Program. Students with three or more years of study on their instrument are placed in chamber ensembles appropriate to their level.
Advanced Performance Program
Ages: 13-18
Fall Session: 7-week session (August 28 – October 10)
bSaturdays
Designed for dedicated advanced students, this program includes a weekly Performance Workshop, private lessons, chamber music coachings, and recital performances. The program emphasizes artistic development, collaborative musicianship, performance, and preparation for advanced musical study. Students also have opportunities to work with a collaborative pianist to develop and polish their solo repertoire and performance skills.
Program Features
- Performance Workshop (Saturdays, 12:00–1:00 PM)
- Theory instruction
- Weekly 45min or 60min private lesson
- Weekly Chamber music rehearsal/coaching
- Performance and recital opportunities
Program Options
45-minute Weekly Private Lesson
Performance Workshop + Chamber Music Coaching
Tuition: $770
60-minute Weekly Private Lesson
Performance Workshop + Chamber Music Coaching
Tuition: $840
Scholarships available. Please email wema@westmont.edu to apply.
Chamber Music
Ages: 9-18
Available: Fall & Winter Sessions
Tuition:
7-week session: $250
15-week session: $400
Scholarships available. Please email wema@westmont.edu to apply.
Recommended for intermediate and advanced students with approximately three or more years of study on their instrument. Placement is based on experience and instrumentation.
Chamber music lies at the heart of WeMA's educational philosophy and is an essential part of the WeMA experience. Students grow as musicians through close collaboration with their peers, developing the skills of listening, communication, leadership, and teamwork. Just as importantly, chamber music provides a joyful and social musical experience where students build friendships, encourage one another, and discover the unique rewards of making music together.
Ensembles are thoughtfully formed each session according to instrumentation, age, and musical experience, and receive regular faculty coachings on Fridays or Saturdays. Students also have opportunities to perform together on campus.
For eligible students enrolled in the Comprehensive Music Program or Advanced Performance Program, chamber music is included as part of their tuition.
Additional ensembles:
Flute & Clarinet Choir (Ages: 11+): $150 August 28–December 5
Private Lesson Series
Youth Private Lessons
Ages: 4-18
Fall Session: August 28 – October 15 (7 weeks)
Fall Session II: October 16 – December 12 (7 weeks)
Schedule: Primarily Fridays and Saturdays. Other days may be available upon request, depending on teacher availability.
Available for: Piano • Violin • Viola • Cello • Flute • Clarinet (If you would like to inquire about an instrument that is not listed here, please contact us at wema@westmont.edu)
Tuition for Fall I:
- 30-minute lessons — $420 (7 x $60)
- 45-minute lessons — $560 (7 x $80)
- 60-minute lessons — $700 (7 x $100)
Individual instruction tailored to each student's age, experience, and musical goals.
Students attend four consecutive weekly lessons. This format encourages consistent practice and steady musical progress.
Scheduling Note: Private lessons are scheduled as four consecutive weekly lessons. Cello lessons may follow a different schedule due to limited teacher availability; lesson dates may vary and may not be consecutive.
For Adult Private Lessons, Please see “Adult Music Program.â€
Adult Music Program
Adult Private Lessons
Ages: Adults
Format: Four-Lesson Series
Schedule: Flexible scheduling throughout the year, subject to teacher availability (scheduled after registration)
Available for: Piano and most orchestral instruments
Tuition
- 45-minute lessons — $340 ($85 per class)
- 60-minute lessons — $420 ($105 per class)
Adult lessons may begin at any time of the year and are arranged directly with the instructor. Purchase a four-lesson series in advance, then schedule your lessons at a pace that best fits your lifestyle. Whether you meet weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or on another schedule, the series offers flexibility while accommodating teacher availability.
Available for: Piano and most orchestral instruments (depending on teacher availability)
Adult Chamber Music
Ages: Adults
Format: Monthly Program
Schedule: Determined after registration based on the availability of ensemble members and faculty.
Tuition: $90 per musician, per month
Experience the joy of making music with others in a supportive and collaborative setting. Ensembles are thoughtfully formed based on instrumentation, musical experience, and scheduling availability, and pre-formed groups are also welcome.
Each ensemble receives two 75-minute faculty coachings per month. Following registration, coachings are scheduled based on the availability of the ensemble and faculty coach. Members may choose to rehearse independently between coachings at times and locations that work best for the ensemble. Rehearsal space at ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ may be reserved, subject to availability.
The program culminates in informal performance opportunities for those who wish to participate.
Additional faculty coachings: Two faculty coachings are included each month. Additional coachings may be scheduled for $120 per coaching, per ensemble.
Piano Lessons
The WeMA Piano Program is designed to nurture both musical excellence and a love for learning. Students can choose from private lessons, group classes, or a combination of both, creating a learning experience that fits their goals and stage of development. Along the way, they build strong piano skills while engaging in music theory, ear training, and musicianship classes that deepen understanding and strengthen overall musical growth.
For students seeking a more advanced path, WeMA offers high-quality instruction and individualized guidance to help them reach their full potential. Advanced students may pursue goals such as Certificate of Merit, competitions, auditions, and other performance opportunities, while developing the technical mastery, artistic expression, and confidence needed for continued musical success. Whether a student is just beginning or preparing for advanced study, our program provides a supportive and inspiring environment in which to grow.
Chamber Music
At its heart, chamber music is a musical conversation that unfolds in real time. Unlike large ensembles, where a conductor leads the group, chamber musicians listen closely to one another, communicate through their instruments, and shape the music together. Through this process, students learn to collaborate, respond, and express artistic ideas with both confidence and sensitivity. Chamber music is one of the most rewarding forms of music-making, fostering musicianship, friendship, and a deeper appreciation for the joy of creating something beautiful together.
Performance Opportunities
Music comes alive when it is shared. At WeMA, performance is an important part of the learning experience. Students are encouraged to share their musical growth through a variety of performance opportunities throughout the year, including student recitals, chamber music concerts, and special events. With access to beautiful venues such as Deane Chapel and Porter Theatre at ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½, students gain valuable experience performing in inspiring settings while building confidence, artistry, and a love for sharing music with others.
A launchpad for a lifetime of music where creative passion takes root and every student’s potential is cultivated with care.
WeMA Academic Calendar | 2026–2027 (Schedule subject to change)
- Aug. 28–29
- Sept. 1–5
- Sept. 8–12
- Sept. 15–19
- Sept. 22–26
- Sept. 29–Oct. 3
- Oct. 6–10
- ssion II (8 weeks)
- Oct. 13–17
- Oct. 20–24
- Oct. 27–31
- Nov. 3–7
- Nov. 10–14
- Nov. 17–21
(No classes Nov. 24–28 for Thanksgiving) - Dec. 1–5
- Dec. 8–12
- Dec. 11 & 12
- Jan. 5–9
- Jan. 12–16
- Jan. 19–23
- Jan. 26–30
- Feb. 2–6
- Feb. 9–13
- Feb. 16–20
- Feb. 23–27
- Mar. 2–6
- Mar. 9–13
- Mar. 16–20
(No classes Mar. 23–Apr. 3 for Spring Break) - Apr. 6–10 (No classes Mar. 23–Apr. 3 for Spring Break)
- Apr. 13–17
- Apr. 20–24
- April 30th & May 1
Schedule a Tour
955 La Paz Rd.
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
(805) 565-6000
wema@westmont.edu