R. Paul Eliot - Instrumental Music & Songwriting

The mission of the Instrumental Music Program at SOTA is to provide advanced training in music on a highly individualized basis.  The program seeks to integrate its concepts with other disciplines and provide students with real-world opportunities through performance, recording and musical involvement in the community.  The Instrumental Music Program is committed to offering college-prep curriculum alongside entry level courses in order to engage all students in music education.

The program at SOTA has two halves:  The Instrumental Music Conservatory and the Songwriting & Audio Recording Program.

The Conservatory Program seeks to prepare traditional musicians for life as a college music major.  Students who play traditional band and orchestra instruments (including piano, classical guitar and harp) and read music proficiently may enter this course of study.  The focus is on the individual musical development of each student toward their highest artistic potential.  Students perform regularly as soloists, in chamber ensembles and in SOTA’s large Symphonic Orchestra.  Additionally, students take courses in Music History, Music Theory and Composition and various music electives including Jazz Combo Workshop.



The Songwriting & Audio Recording Program seeks to provide musicians who play non-traditional instruments with rigorous music education.  Students who play popular styles of music and sing or play instruments such as guitar, drum set, bass guitar and electronic instruments should enter this course of study.  The focus is on the individual musical development of each student toward their highest artistic potential.  In Songwriting courses, students work in a project-based environment where they write and perform and record original songs.  In Audio Recording courses, students then learn the skills necessary to engineer recording, mixing and mastering sessions in SOTA Studios.