Southwestern Music Academy open to public for quality musical training

The Southwestern Music Academy (SMA) at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is offering quality musical instruction to children and adults of all ages who wish to grow in musical excellence. Registration is open until Feb. 5 for individuals and families who wish to participate.

Founded in 2004, the SMA provides music instruction to people of all ages and skillsets. Open to both Southwestern Seminary families and the general public, students will study under the instruction of master’s and doctoral students from the School of Church Music and Worship.

The academy comprises 20 teachers who will train their students in the areas of musical theory, composition, and private and group instruction in piano, voice, drum, cello, violin, and guitar.

“Families can expect encouraging teachers who seek to teach at the highest standards while also showing the enjoyment music can bring,” says SMA Director Donna Hopson. “The instructors are a dedicated and caring group of teachers who exemplify musical excellence by being advanced performers and trained teachers.”

Students can join the academy at any skill level. Teachers will work with their students to help them grow in their musical knowledge and enjoyment, Hopson says, and work with them to achieve each of their musical goals.

Two semesters of introductory lessons are available to beginners in pre-K through fifth grade. Intro students will receive 12 private lessons, three group classes, and give one recital performance. Adults and non-beginner children may enroll in regular lessons consisting of 14 private lessons, one group class, and two recital performances. 

Although the SMA has primarily taught children and teens, the SMA encourages adults who wish to learn new skills or return to music and refresh their skills.

“We would like to help adults be able to lead groups in musical worship,” Hopson says. “In church ministry, we are often asked to do something beyond what we are called to do. The Bible calls us to ‘address one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart.’ The academy gives everyone a chance to polish that skill.”

The deadline to register for spring 2021 lessons is Feb. 5, with reduced tuition rates available to Southwestern Seminary families. The non-beginner lessons began Jan. 19, but individuals are still allowed to enroll through the registration deadline and receive the full 14 private lessons.

For more information about the academy, tuition, and registration, visit the Southwestern Music Academy website here.