We believe that music nurtures all areas of learning and enhances enjoyment of life.
Our Mission
SOL-LA is a Santa Monica, California-based music academy whose mission is to provide high quality performing arts education to students from all backgrounds and economic circumstances, in an engaging and encouraging environment fostering achievement and community. Our comprehensive program reflects the belief that vibrant cultural education nurtures all areas of learning, connects diverse societies and enhances enjoyment of life.
Our Story
Margaret Lysy, Founder & Artistic Director of SOL-LA Music Academy
Starting in 2007, SOL-LA Music Academy, a non-profit 501 (c) (3) performing arts community school in Santa Monica, California, provides comprehensive music and performing arts education from early childhood through adults throughout Los Angeles.
Through individual lessons and group classes in instrumental music, voice, music theory, ensemble classes, chamber music, workshops and master classes with guest artists; and our outreach and school partnership programs, SOL-LA students are exposed to different genres of music and vibrant cultures that are pertinent to today’s globally connected youth, and make music relevant to their lives.
SOL-LA’s teaching artists are leaders in pedagogy and professional musicians who are deeply committed to the concept that music education is a fundamental right and an essential foundation for intellectual, spiritual and emotional growth.
With your participation and support, SOL-LA has become a collaborative resource in the community, helping to build strong partnerships among schools, teachers, students and families, artists, leaders and community members and organizations.
SOL-LA continues its journey on one of the most optimistic endeavors possible: learning, making and sharing music with one another.
You are an integral part of what makes SOL-LA so unique and wonderful, and we are continually grateful to be a part of this community of artists and families.
Philosophy
Children seek a community of peers: SOL-LA is committed to fostering a creative community for its students by providing artistic mentors and an environment for students to bond through healthy, joyful and creative pursuits.
The pedagogical philosophy of SOL-LA emphasizes an integrated approach to teaching and learning through a team approach to education. Instructors collaborate to create classes that correlate with one another.
At SOL-LA, there is no hierarchy to musical genres, but a belief that all are mutually enriching and worthy of exploration.
Cultural Equity & Inclusion
We believe that cultural equity, inclusion, and diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and points of view are tenets of a successful program. We recognize the power and value of difference and welcome and embrace a culturally diverse student population, faculty, administration, and Board of Directors. We are strongly committed to freedom of expression and dialogue and actively promote awareness, understanding, and compassion for diverse perspectives. It is our goal to neutralize inequities, build cultural competence, and disrupt biases to allow our students to achieve their full potential now and in the future.
Goals
To nurture in every child the potential for expressing his or her spirit through music & establish a community of musicians from all backgrounds and traditions. We believe this is the key to solidifying a strong musical foundation and experiencing the true joy of music!
To teach the language of music, instrumental study, voice, and performance skills that give children creative wings. It can be intimidating to start your own business. Learn to present yourself and your concepts with confidence.
To expand exponentially through our scholarship, special-needs, outreach, early-childhood and teacher-training programs, the breadth and quality of music education in Los Angeles