The Compeer Program is an innovative and fun community engagement program that unites Music Academy fellows and audience members in rewarding one-on-one friendships. Unique to the Music Academy, this extraordinary program is an integral part of the Festival experience for all involved. Academy fellows are matched with a "Compeer," an individual or family from among the Academy’s most enthusiastic and devoted audience members and donors. Friendships formed through this program are a vital part of the fellows’ Santa Barbara summer and offer Compeers insight into the lives and careers of the next generation of great classical musicians and the unique opportunity to bond with bright, focused and dedicated musicians from around the world. Because of Compeers, fellows enjoy an incredibly supportive community and have someone to personally play and sing for instead of an audience of strangers. Both fellows and Compeers enjoy a much more meaningful musical experience because of the genuine friendships and connections enjoyed throughout the Festival.
This year marks the 19th season of the Compeer Program, which begins each season with a celebratory dinner on campus. Throughout the Festival Compeers become personal friends with the fellow(s) with whom they are matched. Compeers extend a special brand of hospitality and community which is one of the most appreciated aspects of the Music Academy, according to fellows. Dinners, relaxing at the Compeer’s home, and sightseeing around Santa Barbara are just a few of the many activities fellows and Compeers enjoy together. Most importantly, Compeers support and inspire fellows by attending performances and greeting and congratulating fellows before and afterwards. Fellows and Compeers interact roughly once per week, possibly more often depending upon schedule availability. The Music Academy provides housing and meals and local trasportation for all fellows. Academy fellows are housed at the nearby Westmont College campus, a beautiful campus conveniently located in Montecito. Compeers are not responsible to host fellows at their homes or offer financial assistance.
Fellows and Compeers often develop friendships that carry on long after the fellows’ attendance at the Music Academy. Some fellows from 1998, when the Compeer Program began, are still in touch with their Compeers. Academy alumni often express the profound impact Compeers have on fellows, both personally and professionally. In their own words…
“I heard that our Compeers would be our "personal cheering section" for the summer, allowing us to get to know the people that support the Academy. It was just that, and so much more!”
“The community experience cannot compare to any of the other festivals I have attended. It was extraordinary.”
“The social gatherings were a welcome chance to relax in good company!”
“Seeing my Compeers in the audience allowed me to enjoy performing even more than normal…I really appreciated the interest of all the Compeers, not just my own, in the lives of the fellows.”
“it is so valuable for musicians to know their audience. I was inspired by my Compeer’s enthusiasm and interest. It reminded me why I am a musician.”
“I felt truly connected to my Compeer by the end of two months, and our tearful goodbye was heartfelt. We will certainly be continuing this special friendship!”
To learn more about this program, please email compeer@musicacademy.org or call 805-695-7923.
