SOL-LA Music Academy’s mission is to provide high quality performing arts education to students from all backgrounds and economic circumstances, in an engaging and encouraging environment fostering achievement and community. Our comprehensive program reflects the belief that vibrant cultural education nurtures all areas of learning, connects diverse societies and enhances enjoyment of life.

Founded in 2007, SOL-LA Music Academy is based on founder Margaret Lysy’s experiences as a student at the City of Belfast School of Music in Northern Ireland. During “the Troubles,” a time of great political sectarian strife. The Belfast School of Music brought students of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds together from across the religious divide, providing a safe haven through programs that would effect social change through music.

Like the City of Belfast School of Music, SOL-LA has created a program that uses music education to support youth empowerment, giving students a wide range of experiences that will help them to develop crucial life skills, from infancy to adulthood. All students, regardless of their cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic circumstances, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability are encouraged to participate.

We have a roster of over 20 world class teaching artists who guide our young musicians through the many aspects of a well-rounded musical education.