Orange Coast Musical Arts (OCMA) is an independent, non-profit band and orchestra program founded in 1998 dedicated to providing quality music education and performance experience for youth (ages 6-18) without access to a band or orchestra program in their traditional school setting. The students come from varied musical abilities and a culturally diverse heritage to learn teamwork and support each other musically, spiritually, and socially. Our program promotes values of personal responsibility, discipline and self-confidence.
Music Programs Improve Academic Skills
Studies from UC Irvine and Berkeley report that music programs greatly improve academic skills. It is estimated that when a child has taken several years of music, his or her standardized test scores in reading, writing, science and math rise by 30%.
Performing Ensembles
OCMA and its directors provide a wholesome and mentoring environment while providing music classes. They offer four performing ensemble levels: Alpha Winds, Sound Waves, Hammerheads, and Charis Chamber Orchestra.
Financial Assistance
OCMA keeps its tuition extremely low and is dedicated to making its programs available to students of all economic backgrounds, providing scholarships and other forms of assistance to families in need.
Instruction, uniforms and music expenses are met through donations from foundations, private donors, tuition and child-involved fundraisers.
Community Performances
OCMA has been recognized for its depth of abilities, service to the community, and musical versatility. The opportunities to perform at major community venues such as Youth Expo, the Orange County Fair, Imagination Celebration, local Fourth of July and Christmas parades, and competitive jazz festivals provides our students with opportunities to give back to their community.