music lessons

Free Lessons Through Sponsorship

Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, the Free Music Academy of Silicon Valley is able to offer free lessons to talented young musicians from underrepresented backgrounds. Sponsorship funding ensures that cost is never a barrier to accessing high-quality music education, allowing students to focus on their growth and artistry. Together, we’re shaping a more inclusive future in classical music.

Lesson Structure

Lessons at the Free Music Academy of Silicon Valley are designed to be flexible and accessible. Online lessons will be conducted via Zoom, requiring only a stable internet connection. Materials and weekly notes will be shared through Google Drive to keep everything organized and accessible. In-person lessons may also be available, offering students the opportunity to learn in a hands-on environment. Whether online or in-person, lessons will be tailored to help each student grow and succeed.

Student Selection Process

Students for the Free Music Academy of Silicon Valley will be chosen through a comprehensive and inclusive selection process. Parents/guardians and their younger participants, including those in elementary and middle school, will undergo in-depth interviews to assess their interest, commitment, and support system. These interviews aim to understand each candidate’s potential, motivations, and enthusiasm for music. Older students, primarily those in high school up to the age of 18, will audition into our academy. An interview process discussing their commitment and dedication to the program will, will also be held. This two-tiered approach ensures that all participants are selected based on their unique qualities and ability to contribute to the program’s collaborative environment.

Instruments at No Cost to Students

As part of the Free Music Academy of Silicon Valley’s mission to eliminate financial barriers, musical instruments will be provided to students at no cost. This is made possible through a rental agreement with West Valley Music in Mountain View, California.

Under this agreement, the Free Music Academy will cover all rental costs directly with West Valley Music, ensuring that students can access high-quality instruments without financial burden. Students will sign a Student Rental Agreement, which outlines their responsibilities, including the care and timely return of the instruments.

The instruments will be insured to cover potential loss or damage, further ensuring accessibility and peace of mind for students and their families.

The Benefits of Online Music Lessons

Online music lessons have proven to be an effective and accessible way for students to continue their musical education, breaking geographical barriers and fostering flexibility. Matthew Origel, our President, is a testament to the success of online learning in music. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Matthew transitioned to online lessons when his flute teacher, Jill Heinke, moved to Wisconsin after her husband accepted a new job. Jill, who had built a thriving flute studio in Matthew's hometown, continued to mentor him virtually.

Despite the change in format, Matthew remained committed to his training, participating in biannual recitals and maintaining his performance experience. These online lessons laid the groundwork for his musical achievements, enabling him to study with world-renowned flutists, compete at national levels, and perform internationally. His journey exemplifies how online music education can provide the consistency and high-quality instruction necessary for students to reach their full potential.

The Free Music Academy of Silicon Valley embraces the potential of online lessons to reach students who might otherwise be unable to access quality instruction. By leveraging technology, we can provide consistent, impactful musical education regardless of physical location, ensuring that talent and dedication are never limited by distance.