Westmont Launches New Music Academy

The new Westmont Academy for Young Artists (WAYA), an intensive 10-day program for young musicians, offers two faculty concerts on Aug. 13 and 20 at 3:30 p.m. and two student concerts Aug. 14 and 21 at 3:30 p.m., all in Deane Chapel. The performances are free and open to the public.

About 30 students from the Santa Barbara region are taking part in WAYA to significantly improve their instrumental technique and musical artistry. “This training will help students prepare for their orchestral and chamber music activities at school, college auditions and MTAC’s Certificate of Merit,” says director Han Kim.

WAYA features faculty members Andrea Di Maggio (flute), Neil Di Maggio (piano), Hailey Kim (cello), Han Kim (violin, viola), Joanne Kim (clarinet), Mary Beth Woodruff (violin), Andy Radford (conducting), Michael Shasberger (conducting), Emily Sommermann (violin), Jeong-ah Ryu (piano), and Laura Walter (flute). “Our instructors include nationally acclaimed musicians, performers and teachers,” Han Kim says. “We will teach, inspire and mentor students through lessons, performances, workshops and classes.”

In addition to playing their primary instrument, participants will study music theory, sight-reading and conducting, which will help them fully understand the conductor. They will learn other skills, such as working and communicating with fellow musicians, preparing to perform under pressure, techniques for practicing, preparing for college, and advice about college applications. Each student will receive four private lessons and attend workshops and classes.