Stax Music Academy’s After School program runs from the end of August through the first week of May.  The program is comprised of eight ensembles for vocalists and instrumentalists 6th-12th grade including classes for beginners on piano and a separate course for those interested in audio-engineering production. Each ensemble attends two (2) days per week (not including special rehearsals and occasional off campus performances). The days of attendance are determined by which ensemble the student is in, for example: Premiere Percussion Ensemble rehearses on Tuesday and Thursday. During programming, students work within their group/ensemble under the direction of professional musicians/instructors on staff to improve their vocal/instrumental skills as well as teaching them to read music.  Song selections in the ensembles come traditionally from the Stax catalog of music including a variety of other music genres.  

The Typical SMA Day

Students arrive on campus as early as 3:00pm.  They receive a snack and can use early arrival time to do homework. At 4:00pm SMA begins youth development programming to teach students learn life skills, mental health wellness and leadership. Most ensemble sessions are 4:30-7:00pm and include music theory.  Special workshops take place throughout the year with guest speakers and/or legendary musicians. 

Performances

Students perform an annual Black History Month program and summer grand finale alongside unique performance opportunities for various companies or community events locally and sometimes out of state (based upon ensembles needed and students selected).