music academy
a message from the director
Prospective students and families, welcome.
I am thrilled that you are interested in making Colburn’s Music Academy a part of your journey. By joining our community, you are making an investment in your musical, academic, and personal development—and your future. Music Academy graduates go on to top conservatories, prestigious music programs, Ivy League universities, and are awarded significant scholarship support.
Our robust and comprehensive program provides in-depth instrumental instruction, chamber music and ensemble performance opportunities, and academic coursework complemented by skill-based training in the areas of stage presence, musician health, career development, and more. With a focus on excellence, you will study with our world-class faculty and work with renowned guest artists while performing often, both as a soloist and as an ensemble player.
The Music Academy’s full-time residential program gives students an opportunity to experience conservatory-style life in the cultural heart of Los Angeles. This is a place to grow, explore, and engage—all with a committed community of support around you. As you develop as a performer, community engagement opportunities, academic support, and an emphasis on collaborative learning will help you reach your full artistic potential. Bring your passion and dedication, and we will prepare you for the path ahead.
Sincerely,
Margaret Batjer director, music academy
music academy
The Colburn Music Academy, founded in 2010, is a highly selective training program which prepares gifted young musicians from around the world for conservatory study. With guidance and mentorship from Colburn’s world-class faculty and distinctive learning opportunities with an exceptional peer group of dedicated, talented musicians, Music Academy students develop and craft their artistic voice in a supportive and enriching environment.
a life in music begins here
The Music Academy provides conservatory-level training in most orchestral instruments and piano, preparing students for careers as professional musicians and for success beyond their training at Colburn. The Music Academy enrolls approximately 45 students each year and balances musical training, performances, and academics. The typical age range for students is 14–18, but younger students may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
The comprehensive curriculum helps students grow as musicians and artists with highly focused instrumental training, the development of a wide range of musical skills, an integrated approach to collaborative learning, and individualized programs of study. The two-semester, 30-week program runs from late August through early May; the curriculum includes:
o private instrumental instruction
o studio classes
o ensembles
o chamber music
o music theory and ear training
o music history
o performance-related seminars
o weekly performance recitals
Additionally, students can take coursework in keyboard skills, movement for musicians, and supportive coursework for non-native speakers of English. Pianists also study piano duos, continuo, and figured bass. All students learn stage presence and speaking skills, healthy practice and performance habits, and how to build a portfolio for the college application process.
music academy schedule
Aspiring pre-college musicians accepted into the Colburn Music Academy receive comprehensive and specialized instruction from our outstanding faculty. The Music Academy diploma program consists of a two-year curriculum, following the traditional academic calendar of late August through early May.
violin sample schedule
Monday
9 am–12 pm English Language Studies (international students)
Tuesday Evening attendance required
4–6 pm Virtuosi Ensemble Rehearsal
7–9 pm Violin Studio Class (select studios)
Wednesday
9 am–12 pm English Language Studies (international students)
7:30–10 pm Violin and Viola Studio class
8–10 pm Violin Studio Class
Thursday Evening attendance required
10–10:50 am Keyboard Skills (residential students)
6–7 pm Keyboard Skills (select students)
6:30–8:30 pm Chamber Music Coaching/Rehearsal
Friday
9 am–12 pm English Language Studies (international students)
Saturday All-day attendance required
8–10 am Chamber Music Coaching/Rehearsal
10–11 am Aural Skills
12–1 pm Music History
2–3 pm Music Theory
3–4 pm Keyboard Skills (select students)
3–5 pm Chamber Music Coaching
3–5 pm Music Academy Young Artist Performance (MAYAP) Dress Rehearsal
5–6 pm Music Academy Young Artist Performance (MAYAP)
*Disclaimer: Class times and topics above may not be exact; rather, they serve as a rough estimate of the time commitment expected from Colburn Music Academy students.
piano sample schedule
Monday
9 am–12 pm English Language Studies (international students)
Tuesday Evening attendance required
4–5 pm Keyboard Literature
5–6:30 pm Sightreading for Pianists
6–9 pm Piano Duo Coaching/Rehearsals (select students)
Wednesday
9 am–12 pm English Language Studies (international students)
Thursday Evening attendance required
7–9 pm Piano Studio Class
6:30–8:30 pm Chamber Music Coaching (select students)
Friday
9 am–12 pm English Language Studies (international students)
Saturday All-day attendance required
8–10 am Piano Duo & Chamber Music Coaching/Rehearsals (select students)
10–11 am Aural Skills
12–1 pm Music History
1–2 pm Piano Duo Coaching
2–3 pm Music Theory
1–4 pm Piano Duo & Chamber Music Coaching/Rehearsals (select students)
5–6 pm Music Academy Young Artist Performance (MAYAP)
*Disclaimer: Class times and topics above may not be exact; rather, they serve as a rough estimate of the time commitment expected from Colburn Music Academy students.
“Looking back, my time at the Colburn Music Academy was pivotal in shaping me as a musician. The inspiring lessons, supportive environment, and performance opportunities all contributed to a deeply enriching experience for me.”
—Benett Tsai, Cello
The Music Academy is focused on expanding students’ musical knowledge and performance abilities in preparation for post-secondary study and careers as professional musicians. The intensive components of Music Academy instruction and associated activities take place at various times during the week. The Music Academy does not grant high school diplomas. All residential students complete their education at ASU Prep and non-residential students may complete their state-mandated academic education requirements through an external accredited K-12 school.
faculty
the music academy’s faculty includes today's most renowned teachers, with decades of experience nurturing the next generation of talent.
Margaret Batjer, Music Academy Director, Violin Faculty, and Director of the Academy Virtuosi
“Everyone here has helped me build my path to become a good person, as well as a great musician. My teacher, Mr. Beene, not only imparted all his musical skills to me but also taught me how to be sincere in my approach to music and how to be kind to others.”
Hank Yin, Bassoon, music academy class of 2024
Music Academy students can currently study instrumental and chamber music with the following faculty:
Ted Atkatz, Percussion
Andrew Bain, Horn
Margaret Batjer, Violin
Martin Beaver, Violin
Richard Beene, Bassoon
Fabio Bidini, Piano
Jonathan William Brown, Viola, Chamber Music
Yehuda Gilad, Clarinet
Clive Greensmith, Cello
Henry Gronnier, Violin
Eugene Izotov, Oboe
HyeJin Kim, Piano
Joan Kwuon, Violin
Rodolfo Leone, Piano, Piano Duo
Robert Lipsett, Violin
Peter Lloyd, Double Bass
Tatjana Masurenko, Viola
Demarre McGill, Flute, Interim
JoAnn Turovsky, Harp
Micah Yui, Piano
The Music Academy prepares students for the next chapter in their educational endeavors. Recent Music Academy graduates attend the following schools:
Cleveland Institute of Music
Colburn Conservatory
Columbia University
Curtis Institute of Music
Eastman School of Music
Harvard University
The Juilliard School
New England Conservatory
Northwestern University
Oberlin Conservatory of Music
Rice University
Royal College of Music, London
San Francisco Conservatory of Music
University of California, Berkeley
Yale University
awards, competitions, and summer programs
Students of the Music Academy are recipients of national and international awards and winners of prominent competitions. Recent highlights include:
2024 Busan International Chamber Music Competition
Salon De Virtuosi Career Grant
Amadeus International Music Awards, Silver Medal
Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition (Junior String Division), Gold Medal
Gustav Mahler Prize Cello Competition (Category 4), First Prize
XVII International Tchaikovsky Competition, Live Round
Manhattan International Music Competition, Gold Medal
Music Center's Spotlight Awards, Grand Prize Finalist
Music International Grand Prix, First Prize
Nina Simone Piano Competition (Seniors Division), Gold Medal
Sound Espressivo Competition, Laureate
OPUS Music Competition, First Prize
Stulberg International String Competition, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals
Tibor Junior International Violin Competition, Second Prize
Vivo International Music Competition, First Prize
YoungArts (Classical Music), Finalists and Second Prize
Each year, Music Academy students attend top summer programs including:
Aspen Music Festival and School
Boston University Tanglewood Institute
Heifetz International Music Institute
Meadowmount School of Music
Morningside Music Bridge
National Symphony Orchestra Summer Music Institute
Perlman Music Program
YellowBarn
Additionally, Music Academy students are regularly profiled on From the Top , America’s largest national platform celebrating the stories, talents, and character of young, classically-trained musicians.
performance opportunities
the colburn school is a performance-based institution, and believes that the act of performance is a critical component to the educational experience of all of its students.
“It’s challenging to describe how important my time at Colburn was in preparing me for a solo career. My teacher, Mr. Lipsett, knows exactly what he’s doing in preparing students for the concert stage —the right amount of performance opportunities under the right amount of pressure to provide the best chance of a successful concert. Being trained by him within the structure of the Music Academy was exactly what I needed at that crucial time in my development, and I will always be grateful for all I learned at Colburn and that I went there when I did!”
—Aubree Oliverson, Violin music academy class of 2016
In the Music Academy, students perform solo and chamber music repertoire on the weekly Young Artist Performance series. Additionally, students can expect to perform in any number of public settings on a regular basis, including concerts with the Colburn Dance Academy, a senior recital for graduating students, and special donor events. Students receive high-quality performance experience while learning essential skills, including cueing, communications, and active listening in a collaborative environment. Music Academy performances are regularly livestreamed to an international audience, and students have access to the latest technology and top facilities for recordings.
the academy virtuosi is a student-led, conductorless chamber orchestra offering students unique leadership opportunities.
Academy Virtuosi
Coached by Margaret Batjer, Director of the Music Academy and Concertmaster of the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, the ensemble performs at least two concerts each year in addition to unique concert opportunities outside the School. The Academy Virtuosi has performed with renowned violin soloist and social media trailblazer Ray Chen at the 2024 TonicCon event at Colburn. The Academy Virtuosi were also featured in a Ukraine benefit concert involving North America’s top music conservatories and music programs. In 2024, the Academy Virtuosi performed with celebrated violinist Anne Akiko Meyers at the Laguna Beach Music Festival. Students also have opportunities to experience different performance and leadership perspectives through rotation assignments within the instrumental sections, guided by auditions during orientation.
Music Academy Young Artist Performances
Music Academy students demonstrate the depth and breadth of their training in this almost weekly performance series.
Counterpointe
Music Academy and the Trudl Zipper
Dance Institute Dance Academy students team up for a performance of beloved choreography and chamber music classics.
Music Academy Concerto Competition
Music Academy students perform before a jury of guest artists for the opportunity to be a concerto soloist with the Academy Virtuosi in the ensemble’s spring concert.
Senior Concert
Graduating seniors select the repertoire for this capstone concert, which includes a ceremony honoring their accomplishments.
guest artists and seminars
our students participate in workshops, coachings, and master classes by celebrated guest artists and industry experts.
Master Classes in Zipper Hall with Lang Lang (above) and Midori (right)
Past Guest Artists
Gautier Capuçon
Ray Chen
Steven Doane
James Ehnes
Martin Fröst
Midori
Nobuko Imai
Hans Jørgen Jensen
Sheku Kanneh-Mason
Yoheved Kaplinsky
Kim Kashkashian
Lang Lang
Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Artist-in-Residence
Anthony Marwood
Anne-Marie McDermott
Peter Oundjian
Elizabeth Rowe
Gil Shaham
Since 2014, acclaimed pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet has served as artist-in-residence at Colburn, working with students in all units.
Seminars
The Music Academy curriculum also includes frequent hour-long seminars on topics including Alexander Technique, Dalcroze Eurhythmics, injury prevention, presentational skills, college applications and auditions, and career development.
tuition and financial aid
The Colburn Music Academy is honored to be able to welcome students of diverse backgrounds and nationalities by reducing financial barriers through scholarships. Endowment and annual donors make this possible. We recognize the excellence of Music Academy students by providing full and partial scholarship awards based on demonstrated financial need, as well as through special discretionary scholarships.
A full listing of all fees and costs, including tuition and residential costs, is found online at colburnschool.edu/music-academy/cost-and-financial-aid
High School Curriculum
Most students complete their high school education through a partnership with Global Academy at ASU Prep, an accredited middle and high school that offers a flexible, individualized online curriculum. Students who live locally have the option to pursue their studies at their school of choice. Additional high school options are available for students who do not live in the Colburn residence hall.
Housing
With spectacular views of downtown Los Angeles, the Colburn residence hall includes a dedicated floor for Music Academy students. Residential life staff are available 24/7 and provide a variety of social activities throughout the school year. This on-campus housing for Academy students is limited and availability is not guaranteed for students aged 15–18 only. There are additional student housing options in the immediate area, and some families choose to secure apartment housing in close proximity to the Colburn School.
Application Process
Prospective students submit an online application, resume, letters of recommendations, and pre-screen videos. Selected applicants are invited to audition in person at the Colburn School in March. Accepted applicants receive notification of their admission in the spring. Additional audition information, including deadlines, repertoire lists, and more, can be found on our website.
Our Commitment to Access
The Colburn School is dedicated to providing equitable access to excellence in performing arts education. Our programs are designed to identify dedicated students at all levels who face structural inequities that create barriers to quality arts education and to support them with the resources of the institution for as long as they wish to study. We seek to recruit, train, and empower the next generation of artists who will use their gifts to enact meaningful change in the world. We believe these deep commitments will result in a stronger, more diverse artistic workforce and creative society. For more information, visit colburnschool.edu/commitment.
learn more or apply colburnschool.edu/musicacademy musicacademy@colburnschool.edu
a world-class campus in downtown los angeles
situated in the heart of the cultural center of los angeles,
the Colburn School not only provides access to excellence in both music and dance instruction, but access to some of the best performances, museums, and dining experiences in the country. With so much in close proximity, there’s a wealth of opportunity to discover and explore.
Downtown boasts a walkability score of 97 *, the highest in Los Angeles. With an average of 34 restaurants and cafés within a 5-minute walk, you are bound to discover some new favorites. You can explore the Grand Central Market, Little Tokyo, or visit over 60 art galleries in the area, including The Broad and the Museum of Contemporary Art that are on the same block as Colburn. If you’re looking to experience performances, walk across the street from campus to the Music Center to enjoy the Walt Disney Concert Hall (home of the LA Philharmonic) and the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion (home of the LA Opera). Find historical landmarks and architectural gems such as the Central Library with its Egyptian design influences and the Bradbury Building with its skylit atrium, both within walking distance. If you’re seeking some outdoor adventures, Los Angeles provides access to beaches, hiking trails, skiing, and more. With so much to see and experience, come join us in downtown Los Angeles. You bring the passion. Together, we'll build your future.
*Source: Walkscore
a new home for music and dance
A transformational new addition to the Colburn School is now under construction. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, and born out of our aspiration to serve both the community and the School, the Colburn Center will add magnificent new spaces for performance and learning to the Colburn campus. When complete, it will create the largest concentration of cultural buildings by Frank Gehry found anywhere in the world.
the center will include:
Terri and Jerry Kohl Hall, a 1,000-seat concert hall in the round with a full-size stage and 70-musician orchestral pit.
Kohl Hall will offer flexible configurations for full orchestra, opera, dance, and more. Despite grand capabilities, it is designed to be a uniquely intimate experience for audiences, who will surround the artists with in-the-round seating and very close proximity to the stage edge during performances.
A sophisticated, convertible 100-seat dance studio theater and four oversized dance studios, including a specialized tap studio
Garden spaces with performance areas at the ground level and rooftop These gardens aim to contribute to downtown Los Angeles’s greening and will welcome students, parents, and visitors to gather and find respite in this outdoor environment.
Notice of Nondiscrimination Policy to Students: The Colburn School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, or religious belief in its admission, retention, student aid, scholarship, or other educational policies, and other school-administered programs.
Photos: Nick Bayless, Brian Feinzimer, Sihoon Kim, Abby Mahler, Jon McKee, Philip Pirolo, and Courtney Paige Ray. Renderings courtesy of Frank O. Gehry and Gehry Partners, LLP.