ARTIST DEVELOPMENT & SONG WRITING
CERTIFICATE PROGRAM (ALL NEW for 2010)
Tuesday & Thursday afternoons plus additional studio sessions, 30 weeks
This all new program is ideal for graduates of our Certificate Program OR for artists who want to get serious about their music and move into another league. If music is your life - this program is for you.
• Develop the Artist in you
• Record a CD with an established and gifted producer
• Build a resume of artist credits on Recordings and at shows
• Prepare for the Music Industry
• Achieve an MMA / ACM Professional Music Certificate
• Work with experts to help you design your music career and get where you want to go
• Develop a business plan for your music – all while having the time of your life!
"So many musicians talk to me or come to work with me and they spend all this time and money on recording CD's, but then they don't really have a plan or understanding of what to do with it once it's done. In this program we will really come along side them with a custom approach, help them make a CD they're excited about but then also help them to navigate a pathway into the industry and give them the tools to progress, communicate with their audience and put themselves out there. The Artist Development material we're licensing from ACM is really good stuff and we're excited to see what is going to happen in just 30 weeks". Director Darren Clarke
Want to know more?
Download the Admissions Packet (Includes Application)
Call us at 805 542-9528 or email us now

Shown Above, Molly Reeves, Alex Van Brasch & Jessica Smith play some of of Molly's original
Gypsy Swing numbers at the graduation show, the 'Big Benevolent Bash' in May of 2010.
The Artist Development program includes FOUR MODULES which will be taught by Director Darren Clarke & a team of expert guest lecturers including Jon Anderson (Yes) and Kenny Lee Lewis (Steve Miller Band).
>> The Art of Songwriting & Song craft
The Art of Songwriting equips students with the necessary knowledge, skills and Approach(es) to this unique art. This module covers all aspects of original contemporary songwriting, from the science to the spiritual, from the creative to the commercial: This module is about creativity and writing songs in keeping with the artist’s brand.
The Song Craft element considers a range of tools, skills and music theory needed in arranging and writing contemporary popular music. Students will develop an understanding of how music is structured through an appreciation of music theory and will study how to apply this knowledge in practical situations.
(READ MORE in the Admissions Packet)
>> Music Industry Preparation
This module is in two parts and will consider both the music industry and the artists place within it. In addition to providing students with an overview of the various aspects of the industry it also considers a range of practical skills and preparation needed to effectively compete in the market place. This module will help you develop a simple and practical business plan.
>> Artistic Development
This module will help students define their image and brand within the commercial market and to communicate effectively to their audience. This includes brand development, image, artwork, styling, photo shoots, lyric writing in context with brand, social networking... (READ MORE in the Admissions Packet)
>> Stage Craft
This module brings together skills learnt throughout the course, giving the opportunity for the application of these skills in a live band / performance or audition situation. Students will be expected to participate in various Showcases and will be assessed on their final performance at the end of the school year.
PLUS the ‘5th Element: Recording & Production
This refers to your time in the studio with the Producer as well as some engineering / recording comprehension training in your Songwriting Module. The goal is to produce an EP by the end of the year that showcases your strengths and well developed arranged and produced songs. Students will have one monthly evening session with Producer Darren Clarke to work on a Professional quality E.P, as well as the chance to participate in other students recordings.
By the end of the school year students will have an EP they can be proud of, a business plan for their music and a strong resume of recording credits on other student EP's. In addition students will benefit from MMA hosted Audition sessions for students who are looking to build bands to back them up.
SCHEDULE 2010 - 2011
30 Weeks total (Break for Thanksgiving, a month at Christmas, and Spring Break in April).
Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, 1- 5.00 pm plus additional recording sessions, scheduled on Mondays or Wednesdays at 7.30 - 10 pm.
Orientation Thursday Sept 2, 1- 4 pm
Sessions start Tuesday Sept. 7 1 - 4 pm
Final Performance & Graduation date late May, date to be confirmed.
APPLICATION, ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
• Application Interview / Audition required unless you are a graduate of the Professional Music Certificate Program.
• This program is guitar based but not limited to guitar players, since the emphasis is on songwriting.
• Age 16+ (Mature students welcome)
• Besides their instrument, students must own a pair of studio head-phones and have ready access to Microsoft Office.
FEES 2010
$3395 Early Enrollment Rate (by May 28, 2010) N/A
$3695 Deadline August 31st (Though the program may be full by then)
Payment Plan Available - See Admisions Packet.
All information is correct at the time of publication.
MMA reserves the right to make changes or ammendments without further notice.
Want to know more?
Download the Admissions Packet (Includes Application)
Call us at 805 542-9528 or email us now
