Program Structure & Educational Approach

  • We’re one of the few brick-and-mortar schools in the nation where jazz education is a flagship program—offered alongside our Foundation and Conservatory tracks—giving students of all ages, levels, and goals the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

  • According to the United States Congress, among other things, "Jazz makes evident to the world an outstanding artistic model of individual expression and democratic cooperation within the creative process, thus fulfilling the highest ideals and aspirations of our republic."

    By participating in our programs, students are exposed to collegiality on the bandstand, learn the historical significance of jazz as an art form, get exposure to complex music theory concepts through performance of engaging arrangements, and start developing a strong lyrical voice by performing in front of a live audience.

  • Great question! The College Music Society has identified improvisation as one of the three core pillars for 21st-century music education. That’s why we integrate jazz—not just as a genre, but as a way of thinking—into all levels of our programming. From 3-year-olds starting piano in our Foundations Music School, to advancing students in private Conservatory lessons, all paths lead to opportunities within our Jazz Academy. It’s a space where students of all disciplines can come together for unique group classes and real-life performance experiences that foster creativity, confidence, and collaboration.

  • Throughout the Academic year students are offered performance opportunities such as Recitals, Juries, and Group Class performances along the faculty in and around South Orange County.

Ages & Student Readiness

  • While we believe that all ages are good to start music lessons, it is best to have the child start when they can receive and follow instruction and can focus for 20-30 minutes. Typical starting age for our students is around 4-5 years old.

  • We have students from 3 to over 80 and faculty that specializes in early childhood and adult music education.

Tuition, Billing & Payment Policies

  • After years of experience in music education, we’ve found that a 6-month commitment is the most sustainable way to offer high-quality programming, retain great teachers, and create a consistent learning environment where students can thrive. That said, we understand that everyone’s schedule is different! For those who need it, our Bundle and Ad Hoc options allow for more flexibility to better fit your needs.

  • The lesson and group class tuition is a monthly flat fee (for Monthly Plan). Although it is true that on some months like December you may get 3 weeks only, on average student gets 4 lessons per month because of the floating 5 week months during the calendar year. These allow to catch up on the lessons you may have missed.

  • If you decide not to participate in any particular month we require a 30 day cancellation notice after the initial 6 months contract in writing at which point you will forfeit your spot on the schedule.

    If you want to sign up again, you will have to pay the Returning Student registration fee and wait for the next available time slot.

  • Great question! Over time, we’ve found that aligning tuition with the first of each month helps us stay in sync with our regular expenses—like teacher compensation, space rental, and program development. Consistent monthly payments create a more sustainable business model, allowing us to provide high-quality education and a stable experience for both students and staff.

  • Our Monthly Plan already offers some of the most competitive pricing in Orange County. Instead of inflating prices and offering small discounts, we focus on keeping tuition affordable from the start. That way, the savings go directly to you—no gimmicks, just honest, high-quality education at a fair price. We believe that’s the most transparent and respectful way to build a lasting relationship with our families.

  • To keep things simple and running smoothly, we currently accept payments by credit card (with a 3% processing fee) or ACH bank transfers. This system helps us stay organized and focused on what we love most—teaching music! We totally understand the preference for other methods, but this setup allows us to provide the best experience for both our families and our team.

Scheduling, Absences & Enrollment

  • We try to place private and group class students as schedules and seating permits on a first-come-first-served basis. However, that may not always be possible due to variety of reasons. In the event that you are not placed right away, we can put you on a waiting list for the first available spot.

  • To cancel lessons or group classes please give us a 30 day courtesy notice after your initial 6 months contract ends. If you are taking private lessons on a Bundle Plan, we just need 7 day courtesy notice. Please note, that when cancellation notice is given you forfeit your time slot in the teacher’s schedule.

  • If there was 30 day break between your last and new lesson we will require a $60 registration fee and find a suitable time in a teacher studio. We can not guarantee availability of the same teacher and/or time slot that you may have previously had.

Materials & Instrument Rentals

  • We do have a limited supply of starter instruments, so please inquire! Usually, we can recommend a good supplier in and around Orange County who offers valuable deals.

  • Every studio and teacher have specific work and method books they may recommend for student to acquire. Additionally, we have a large stock of piano specific literature that parents can check out upon teacher recommendation at market cost and avoid shipping charges or shipment downtime.

Events & Services

  • We would love to work with you on your live entertainment needs! Send us a note and we’ll take it from there.