Double Reed Academy
Join The Double Reed Academy Today!
The Double Reed Academy is a year-long program of PYO Music Institute and Settlement Music School dedicated to developing the next generation of oboists and bassoonists, from complete beginners to advanced students. Through expert private instruction, access to instruments and learning materials, and pathways to ensemble performance, the Academy provides a strong foundation for long-term musical growth and achievement.
Applications and inquiries are now welcome! Interested families are encouraged to contact Academy Director Dr. Rick Barrantes to learn more and schedule an introductory interview.
Who Can Join?
The Academy welcomes beginning oboists and bassoonists ages 10–14, with no prior experience required, as well as developing and advanced musicians up to age 18. Students interested in learning a double reed instrument for the first time are encouraged to apply. All applicants participate in a brief introductory interview to assess readiness and commitment.
Academy Benefits
- Private Instruction: 60-minute weekly lessons, 44 weeks annually (Academic and Summer Seasons)
- Instrument Access: Oboe or bassoon provided for the year
- Learning Materials: Reeds and lesson music provided as needed
- Ensemble Opportunities: Audition preparation and pathways to PYOMI programs and Settlement Music School chamber ensembles with full tuition remission available
- Financial Support: Need-based lesson aid and eligible ensemble tuition subsidies for students 18 and below
Your Pathway to Ensemble Performance
Through individualized instruction and audition preparation, Double Reed Academy students develop the skills needed to pursue membership in Settlement Music School Advanced Study Ensembles, and PYOMI ensembles, including PYO, PYAO, YMDO, PYSB, and PYCB.
Ensemble placement is based on musical development and successful auditions.
Tuition & Financial Aid
PYO Music Institute and Settlement Music School work together to make high-quality double reed instruction accessible to students and families.
Settlement Music School provides need-based financial aid for weekly private lessons and supports participation in its Advanced Study Chamber Ensembles.
PYO Music Institute provides instruments, reeds, and learning materials at no cost to Academy families, along with full tuition subsidies for students who successfully audition into PYOMI ensembles.
Academy students who successfully audition into Settlement’s Advanced Study Chamber Ensembles are also eligible for full chamber program tuition subsidies.
Apply to the Double Reed Academy
Applications and inquiries are now welcome! Interested families are encouraged to contact Academy Director Dr. Rick Barrantes to learn more and schedule an introductory interview.
Who We Are
Our highly credentialed and dedicated faculty bring years of professional experience to the classroom, customizing their approach to provide exceptional training for our students.
Our Branches
Our six branches serve the Greater Philadelphia region, ensuring that excellence in arts education is available to all, regardless of location.
Forms & Documents
Find all of your school resources here.