With support from the California Arts Council, Miller Music Academy (MMA) will sustain and expand its year-round music education programs serving 600–800 participants annually, including approximately 500 individuals through summer programs across San Diego County and Orange County. CAC funds will support core operations directly tied to program delivery, including teaching artist compensation, program coordination, instructional materials, scholarships, and facility costs.
This investment will enable consistent weekly instruction, ensemble rehearsals, community performances, and introductory instrument access opportunities, while preserving affordable participation through MMA’s sliding-scale tuition and family fundraising model.
Funds will be used in full compliance with CAC guidelines and will not support ineligible expenses such as fundraising, lobbying, capital improvements, or equipment purchases.
Between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027, Miller Music Academy will provide inclusive, community-centered music education and performance opportunities throughout San Diego. Programs take place in schools, parks, community centers, and partner sites, expanding access to high-quality arts learning in neighborhoods where opportunities have been limited. The Academy is also planning Miller Music Academy Creative Studios, a community flex space offering affordable rehearsal, teaching, recording, and creative gathering space to support artistic collaboration and neighborhood vitality.
Primary activities include weekly group music classes for children, youth, adults, and seniors in band, orchestra, choir, jazz, modern band, and early childhood music. Programs are designed to serve charter school students, homeschoolers, refugee populations, and youth connected to the San Diego Regional Center, often culminating in shared student showcases.
After-school, weekend, and intergenerational programs welcome families to learn together. Partnerships with San Diego Parks and Recreation and Kupanda Kids Refugee Support Organization help provide free and low-cost enrichment opportunities.
Public performances, including community concerts and the Pride Pop-Up Symphony founded in 2024, promote connection, visibility, and civic pride.
Financial accessibility is supported through sliding-scale tuition, scholarships, loaner instruments, and family-led fundraising. Neurodivergent-affirming programs, including the nature-based In Harmony Educational Enrichment Program for ages 4–14, feature sensory-aware environments and flexible instruction.
Serving 600–800 participants annually, Miller Music Academy employs about 10 teaching artists and engages thousands through performances, cultivating belonging, creative expression, and community pride.