The Alpha School of Music (ASOM) is the evolution of 100+ years of preparing students for the commercial music and entertainment industry. A diverse cross-section of musical styles is offered allowing students with a passion for music and performance to explore the best that each genre has to offer from ska and reggae to pop, jazz and folk music.
The Associate Degree in Music Performance at the Alpha School of Music is a two-year programme developed to train musicians for the commercial music and entertainment industry. It is the only tertiary programme in Jamaica that focuses on ensemble performance and also offers two pre-qualifying years of instruction for students who do not have the requisite knowledge to enter the Associate Degree programme. Classes begin in September and an audition is required. Click here for details.
The Certificate in Professional Music Development (Pro Music Pathway) at the Alpha School of Music is a two-semester programme designed for practicing musicians who seek to refine their craft, expand their knowledge and develop new competencies. This individual education plan provides a structured approach to professional growth specifically designed for the learner’s goals and areas of need. Learners may choose to complete any or all of the courses in their selected pathway. The Certificate in Professional Music Development is only awarded upon the successful completion of all prescribed courses in the pathway within two years of commencing the programme..
ASOM is based on the ensemble method, emphasizing accompaniment and solo work within a group context. Alpha’s approach is guided by lessons learned over a century and that music professionals are best trained through practical, group-based learning in a vocational setting, coupled with expertise in music business and marketing.
Work experience and internships are fundamental to Alpha’s programme and help to strengthen the transition from school to work. All students gain stage and studio experience as quickly as possible. Click for details.
For students interested in classical music or music technology, the Associate Degree in Music Performance from the Alpha School of Music offers industry-standard technology training and popular music concepts in order to become more employable.
Curriculum
The Alpha School of Music trains students for the commercial music and entertainment industry. The curriculum includes individual instruction on guitar, bass, drums, saxophone, trombone, trumpet, and keyboards, a foundation in music theory and ear training, best practices in music recording and production as well critical principles of music business and entertainment administration. Ska, reggae, blues, jazz and folk music are the primary instructional styles.
Facilities
- State-of-the-art practice rooms
- Small and large group rehearsal rooms
- Recording studio
- Keyboard lab
- Computer resource centre
- Disc jockey set ups
- Sound system
- 24/7 streaming radio station
- Outdoor stage
- Up to 30 Digital Audio Workstations running industry-standard Pro Tools and Sibelius software for student use.
Make your music passion your career
Services
As part of our commitment to the transition from school to work, a career counselor is available to assist students with work experience, work placement, music business internships and career counseling.
Careers
Alpha graduates go on to become performers, recording engineers, radio technicians, stage technicians, songwriters and private instructors.
