Own Your Sound
Professional instruction.
State-of-the-art studios.
Zero cost.
Turner Foundation Music & Imagination opens doors for young musicians ready to grow, create, and perform.
Key Changemakers
Our Mission
The mission of the Turner Foundation Music & Imagination program (TFMI) is to foster intellectual engagement and growth by actively engaging young peoples' imagination through music.
We believe that by providing free access to professional music studios, high quality instruments, music education, and committed instructors that young people will become creatively, emotionally and intellectually stronger musicians while creating a healthy foundation for later success.
Our Core Programs
Music Exploration
Perfect for young musicians just starting their journey. This hands-on workshop introduced students to the magic of music through play, experimentation, and discovery. Students explore different instruments, learn the basics of rhythm and melody, and build confidence in a supportive group setting.
No prior. experience needed-just curiosity and enthusiasm for music.
Age Range: 6-12 years old
Time Commitment: 2 hours per week
Class Size: 8-12 students
Length: Semester-long
Skill Level: Beginner (entry-level)
Waitlist Status: Limited spots available
One on One Music Instruction
Personalized music instruction tailored to each student’s musical goals and learning styles. Whether your child is picking up their first instrument or looking to advance their skills, our instructors provide training in both technique and music theory. Students develop as complete musicians while preparing for to participate in our Youth Blues & Jazz Band. (Required of all students enrolled in One-on-One Instruction.)
Age Range: 8-18 years old
Length: Semester-long (with option to continue)
Skill Level: All levels (beginner to advanced)
Waitlist Status: Yes - high demand for private lessons
Instruments Available: Piano, guitar, drums, bass, trumpet, and voice
Youth Blues & Jazz Band
Our premier ensemble experience where students put their skills into action alongside their peers in either A Combo or B Combo bands. This performance-focused program allows students to explore blues and jazz styles while teaching the art of playing together-from listening and responding to bandmates to commanding the stage during live performances.
Age Range: 10-18 years old
Time Commitment: 2 hours per week (rehearsals)
Class Size: 6-8 students per combo (A Combo and B Combo)
Length: Semester-long
Skill Level: Intermediate (requires some instrument experience)
Waitlist Status: Yes - must complete One-on-One instruction first
EQ Vibes
Designed for teens to exercise and expand their social and emotional intelligence (EQ) skills. Students learn how to listen and respond to music and become aware of rhythm, pitch, dynamics, and tempo as they play and improvise. This partnership with AHA! combines musical exploration with social-emotional learning, helping teens develop self-awareness, empathy, and emotional intelligence through guided musical experiences.
Age Range: 13-18 years old
Time Commitment: 2 hours per week (workshop format)
Class Size: 8-18 students
Skill Level: All levels
Waitlist Status: Popular trips fill quickly
Amenities
When you enroll in any TFMI program, you become part of a community that cares about your complete well-being.
Our Three Music Studios
TFMI students have access to three distinct, professionally-equipped spaces, each designed for different aspects of music education and creation.
The Live Room
A versatile community space that accommodates ensemble rehearsals, group instruction, and larger musical gatherings. This room serves as the heart of our collaborative music-making, where bands come together and community connections flourish.
The Blue Room
Our primary recording and instruction facility, outfitted with professional instruments, recording equipment, and acoustic treatment. This controlled environment is perfect for focused learning, recording projects, and detailed musical instruction.
The Open-Air Sonos Music Studio
Santa Barbara's first outdoor music studio, built in response to the pandemic. This innovative space features professional-grade SONOS audio systems and allows for creative outdoor music-making and recording experiences.
All three studios feature professional instruments made possible through partnerships with organizations like: Sonos, Santa Barbara Bowl Foundation, and Yamaha.
Our Team
Turner Foundation Music & Imagination thrives because of the passionate individuals who bring music education to life every day. Led by our staff and supported by talented volunteer instructors, TFMI creates transformative experiences for young musicians across Santa Barbara's Westside.
The Heart of TFMI
Our Volunteer Instructor Community
TFMI is powered by an incredible team of volunteer instructors—working musicians, music educators, and passionate community members who believe music changes lives. These dedicated volunteers are the backbone of our program, making free, professional-quality music education possible for every student.
The Impact They Make:
Through their consistent weekly presence, our volunteers create mentorship relationships that go further than simply teaching technique. They witness breakthrough moments, celebrate achievements, and help students discover not just musical skills, but confidence to grow past their limitations.
Volunteer Benefits:
Access to professional studios and equipment for personal musical projects
Community building through mixer events with fellow local musicians
Snack and refreshments provided during teaching sessions
Watching students grow musically and personally
Interested in Becoming an Instructor?
Join our team
TFMI thrives through collaboration with an incredible network of community partners, sponsors, and organizations who believe in the power of music education. These partnerships allow us to offer completely free programming while maintaining professional standards, making high-quality music instruction possible for every student in our community.
Partnerships and Donors
Are you interested in learning a new instrument?
Click here to apply
FAQs
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In order to take lessons with our instructors, students must be on track to join one of our Youth Jazz & Blues Bands.
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Music Enrichment Excursions are only offered to our students who participate in one of our other programs. They are often on a first come first serve basis, and fill up quickly. If you would like to volunteer to chaperone a field trip, please click here.
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You can support TFMI by donating here, or by volunteering your time to assist us on events!
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Participating in any TFMI program is totally free! If you would like to support TFMI in offering high class music education at no cost to our families, please donate here.
Info Request Form