The School of American Music is Michiana’s musical connection. The School of American Music was founded by D. Garth Taylor in 2012 to serve as a music resource in southwest Michigan. Over a span of 10 years, he built a student population up from one in 2012, to more than 100 students in 2022, assisted by a full Board of Directors and Priscilla Hellenga, who served as the first Executive Director, and Donna M. Mitchell who succeeded Priscilla in that role in 2017.

Today the School of American Music offers Harbor Country an array of services, including free concerts, music enrichment assemblies and after-school instruction in local public schools, and outdoor singalongs and music festivals.

The board is composed of volunteer community members who actively support its mission to provide education, performance, and audience opportunities in music and the related arts in the Southwest Michigan area. The school is supported by individuals, merchants, and foundations who recognize the cultural value SAM brings to the area.

Our VISION works toward an inspired, inclusive community united and enriched by the joy and love of music.

Our MISSION provides opportunities for area residents and visitors to participate in the arts and in educational program.

We Value:

EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING
We offer programs only when there are highly qualified people to lead them.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION
We operate a community institution based on transparency, fairness and openness to all in participation and governance.

AFFORDABILITY
We strive to keep fees low and provide scholarships to all those in need.

OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
We support local artists and teachers, who are vital to our quality of life.

SUSTAINABILTY
We have launched an endowment fundraising campaign to ensure financial security and the ability to continue to provide programs.

Jazz Sunday Brunch - Jazz Fest 2025

By School of American Music

Jazz Sunday Brunch - Jazz Fest 2025