Students at the academy receive a rich and comprehensive music education, supported by a dedicated faculty. In an environment distinguished by its community and learning opportunities, WPMA students frequently compete and succeed in state and nation-wide auditions.
WPMA specializes in comprehensive pre-college music education, guiding complete beginner students as young as age four through high school graduation and toward successful placement in prestigious universities and conservatories.
Students studying privately at WPMA are part of a larger musical ecosystem that includes frequent performances, masterclasses with visiting artists, and collaborative opportunities across the academy.
The academy offers private lesson instruction from an esteemed faculty in over 17 instruments and topics, spanning Strings, Brass, Woodwinds, Piano, Voice, Music Theory, Composition, Ear Training and more. Many students have access to multiple teachers at the academy.
The WPMA Environment
Private lessons are the foundation. Our most accomplished students build on them by performing throughout the year, studying theory, taking a second private lesson, playing chamber music and setting goals beyond the academy. None of it is required, and the right mix depends on each student’s age and goals, but this is the path our strongest musicians have taken.
Our strongest students perform multiple times a year, in studio classes, student recitals and guest artist masterclasses, with collaborative pianists for support. Every time on stage builds confidence the practice room can’t.
A four-level sequence of small-cohort classes in rhythm, ear training and theory, so students understand the music they play. Learn more
Many students take two private lessons a week. String, wind and brass players often add piano or sight reading, skills that speed up everything else they learn.
Selected ensembles rehearse weekly, coached by faculty and visiting artists, and learn to listen, lead and play as a team. Learn more
The goals our students pursue outside WPMA, with their teachers’ guidance. Read our full guide to youth orchestras, competitions and summer programs →
Students audition for Georgia All-State, the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra and Emory Youth Symphony Orchestras, and have won 1,000+ All-State and top youth orchestra seats over the past decade.
Preparing for GMTA, the Samuel Fordis Young Artists Concerto Competition or the Franklin Pond Chamber Music Competition gives students a clear goal and a deadline to work toward.
Summers at Atlanta Festival Academy, Sphinx Performance Academy, the Governor’s Honors Program and NYO2 keep students growing between semesters.
Teachers guide students through prescreening recordings, arts supplements and live auditions for leading conservatories and universities.
The WPMA Experience
Every student’s experience centers on regular private instruction with dedicated faculty, who work closely with each student to develop technique, interpret repertoire and build musical independence.
Students perform frequently, in studio recitals, the academy’s monthly Spotlight Concert Series, chamber music concerts and guest artist masterclasses, building confidence and stage presence with every performance.
Throughout the year, distinguished guest and visiting artists lead masterclasses at WPMA, giving students feedback and new perspectives from internationally respected performers and teachers.
Students join a community that values collaboration, curiosity and artistic growth. Alongside private lessons, many take part in chamber music, youth orchestras and theory studies.
Student Outcomes
WPMA alumni have gone on to study at the nation’s leading conservatories and universities.
Within our strings department, students of all levels study with distinguished faculty and train a wide-range of solo, orchestral, and chamber repertoire through private studies.
At the core of our brass & woodwinds department is an esteemed faculty of dedicated performers and educators. They serve as teachers and mentors for students in the department.
Our voice department nurtures singers of all levels focusing on healthy vocal technique, expressive performance, and a deep understanding of vocal literature.
Our theory & composition department offers a comprehensive foundation in music theory, ear training, and composition. Students gain the tools to understand, analyze, and create music, preparing them for both advanced study and personal artistic exploration.
