Welcome to Hopeless Music Academy:

Hopeless Music Academy (HMA) is an inspiring, hands-on educational experience designed for youth who are curious and passionate about music or music business.

This program provides students with real-world exposure to both the creative and business sides of music. Whether they’re interested in guitar, piano, music production, songwriting, beat-making, music marketing, or music law, students are guided based on their individual interests. We want to assist youth in need with the tools, mentorship, and access to a path to employment in the music industry.

Through a combination of educational sessions, mentorship, and immersive experiences, students gain not just skills, but confidence, community, and vision for their future.

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What Students Will Learn

By the end of the program, students will:

  • Learn to play and perform a song

  • Understand how money flows in the music industry

  • Develop skills in marketing and promoting music

  • Build networking and communication skills

  • Practice singing with guided vocal warm-ups and techniques

  • Gain grounding tools through mindfulness and self-expression practices

Program Experience

Throughout the program, students receive:

  • A hot meal, snacks, and water at each session

  • Mentorship from industry professionals, youth workers, and college students

  • A fun, safe, and supportive environment to explore creativity and build friendships

  • An HMA notebook and pen for learning and reflection

  • Opportunities to visit real-world music industry sites, including studios and record labels

  • A graduation certificate and special HMA gift upon completion

On the final day, students celebrate their journey with a graduation event, where friends and family are invited to experience and support their work.

Industry Exposure

Students gain insight from real professionals and creatives. Past guests and experiences have included:

  • Management and A&R professionals connected to major releases

  • Project managers from iconic music labels

  • Producers behind major sports and entertainment collaborations

  • Songwriters and artists working with top-charting talent

These experiences help students see what’s possible and how to get there.

Program Details

When: Fall and Spring semesterly cohorts and Summer week-long camps

Location: North Hollywood

Optional: Virtual add-ons for select students

Eligibility: Open to all levels, beginners welcome

Cost: Fully covered (thanks to generous donors)

Programs like this often cost thousands at private institutions, but HMA is committed to making access completely free for participating students.

Inclusive & Accessible

We believe access matters. We accommodate student needs!

Additionally, parent and guardian communications are available in:

  • English

  • Spanish

  • Portuguese

Limited Enrollment

This is a specialized program with limited space, offered on a first-come, first-served basis.