Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Berkshires’ Academy for Advanced Musical Studies — BAAMS?
Set in the Northern Berkshires, BAAMS is a nonprofit music-education organization providing after-school music instruction to students ages 12-18, with special emphasis on the art forms of improvisation and musical composition, taught by a world-class faculty. BAAMS is part of a strong musical community dedicated to fostering a positive learning environment for all levels of musicians.
How much is BAAMS’ tuition?
The program is $189 per month* (based on a *full 8-month commitment). Families are billed at the first of the month.
What does a BAAMS student receive for their tuition?
Students will receive a world-class music education via a variety of classes offered in person and also livestreamed. Students have access to our online audio and video library. BAAMS will be hosting special one-day Master Classes with guest instructors throughout the year. Students will be urged to compose, record, and share their own music compositions and improvisations.
Does BAAMS offer tuition assistance?
Yes! Students and families may apply for scholarships to make tuition affordable for their family budget. To request a scholarship application, please write to: info@berkshiresacademyams.org.
Can students take individual lessons?
Yes, BAAMS currently does offer individual lessons; our programming is designed and works best for students who are enrolled full time. At the current time, BAAMS members will be taught instrumental lessons in small, specialized groups.
How may I get involved with BAAMS, whether I'm a student or not?
Families and members of the community at large may join our ‘Circle of Support’ via donation, and we also welcome in-kind donations of needed equipment or services, and any volunteer help for BAAMS’ special projects and events throughout the year. Interested Volunteers and Supporters may reach out to: giving@berkshiresacademyams.org.
What ages of students MAY audition for BAAMS?
Any student from age 12-18 who has an interest in playing brass instruments, saxophone/woodwinds, piano/keyboards, drums, bass guitar or upright bass, or guitar, or other instruments of their choice, may join. Exceptions may be made, in special circumstances, for a student's age; please contact Richard Boulger, our Executive Director, directly to discuss: info@berkshiresacademyams.org.
THIS IS A GREAT PROGRAM! How may I donate to BAAMS?
Please donate here.
Or, donors may contact Jane Forrestal, BAAMS’ Director of Development, at: giving@berkshiresacademyams.org.
Does BAAMS offer online learning?
Yes. Due to our national experience coping with keeping learning going forward during the COVID-19 pandemic, BAAMS is offering a variety of opportunities for online learning. This also allows students who live at long distances to learn with BAAMS. These will include direct, live-streaming instruction from our faculty, use of an extensive library of original educational videos and audio play-along tracks, practice exercises, and much more.
What COVID policies does BAAMS have in place?
We are committed to ensuring the health and safety of all our students, faculty, and community and will be largely following the guidelines set forth by the CDC and local and state public health officials.
Is there a fee to attend the Berkshires' Summer Jazz Day Camp, August 15-19, 2022?
The Jazz Day Camp tuition rate is $400, thanks once again to the generous support of our donors and members of the BAAMS’ Circle of Support.