Elaborating on the detail of the revised guitar program, Akoni says, "The basic premise is to provide a more well-rounded system to meet the needs of the contemporary guitarist." He adds, "Our flexible curriculum and specialized training will allow all skill levels to get the most out of their time at the Academy. A guitar department that used to follow a 'one-size-fits-all' approach now offers the incoming student more choices to support their prospective direction."

In addition to Akoni, who teaches Rock and Studio Guitar, the group of core instructors and specialists include respected Jazz guitarist and educator Forman (Jazz) and virtuoso studio great and solo artist Verheyen (Advanced Technique); Bill Fowler will continue to teach Sight Reading; Andy Abad will handle World Guitar and private instruction; German Schauss will teach Advanced and Progressive Rock; Jodie Fisher and Jamie Rosenn join Forman for Jazz instruction; Steve Gregory and Ken Song, private instructors, as well as Art Renshaw (Sight Reading/Jazz), Dave Hill (String Theory/Contemporary Guitar) and Ross Bolton (Funk) round out the highly experienced teaching staff.

LA Music Academy continues to offer scholarships for the guitar, as well as bass, drum and vocal departments. Interested domestic and international students demonstrating exceptional musical talent, ability and enthusiasm can apply now for the 2009 school year. Applicants are evaluated based on their essays, academic history, playing skills, and letters of recommendation.

For more information, contact Iris Alba at LA Music Academy by calling 626-568-8850, 800-960-4715 or e-mail [email protected].