The Alpha Music School in Jamaica, best known for continuing Alpha’s 100+ year music education legacy, is now opening its doors to international music students from around the world.
The “Jamaican Music Experience” (JME) at the Alpha Music School is designed for musicians outside of Jamaica who wish to take classes on Alpha’s campus, from Alpha’s instructors and with Alpha School of Music students. JME students may choose to attend for one (1) semester (Fall or Spring) or even one (1) full academic year (Fall and Spring semesters).
The opportunity, says Alpha Bandmaster, Gay Magnus, is ideal for musicians who have some experience and are passionate about the music and the culture.
“The JME is a wonderful opportunity to learn about Jamaican music by learning alongside Jamaican students, teachers and performers,” said Magnus.
“Alpha has a 100+ year legacy in music education. Our alumni have impacted every genre of Jamaican music. We expect our current students to be a part of the future of the music industry and Alpha classes engage with the best talent in Jamaica. The JME program is a one-of-a-kind experience and a great way for overseas musicians to engage with Jamaican culture as well as learn and work with Jamaican musicians.”
JME students enroll in practical and theoretical courses in Jamaican music history, Jamaican sound system performance, ska, reggae, rocksteady and mento bands, and Caribbean ensembles.
Music executive Steve Wilson says Alpha is at the forefront of music training. “Alpha has taken the big steps needed to add the necessary modern practice, production, and performance spaces for its students,” he said. “Alpha is certainly the most comprehensive music education program in Jamaica.”
Prospective Jamaican Music Experience students must have some prior experience, be between the ages of 19-28 and complete a virtual audition process in order to demonstrate competencies in playing a primary instrument and reading notated music.
Read: Alpha brings together Caribbean band leaders for discussion and Jam session
