Our Story.
Student Academy of Musical Leaders (SAML) was founded in 2020 by a close-knit group of former Drum Majors and Music Leaders who wanted to provide student leaders a competitive circuit that pushed the limits of their creativity, offered support and guidance in their growth as young leaders, and assisted them in refining their skills as musicians and creators. This led to the creation of the “T Pattern” and other innovative performance formats and educational programs.
With passion and undeniable drive, the founding members of SAML were able to create an organization that truly focuses on the ever-changing needs of student leaders involved in the marching and music performing arts.
SAML is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit organization based in Southern California that has served student leaders all over California and parts of Mexico. SAML is currently offering its programs to students in grades 5-12.
Our Mission.
The mission of Student Academy of Musical Leaders (SAML) is to provide student leaders involved in marching and music performing arts a platform to challenge their creativity and advance their skills and leadership through modern competitive events and progressive education.
Our Core Values.
Pursuit of Excellence: We will commit to creating better ways of doing the things we do. We will not rest on our accomplishments, but will rather build on them. We will aim to exceed expectations and excel in everything we do.
Preserving Tradition: We value and respect the traditions and history of our art forms. We will ensure our traditions and history continue to live on and are shared with future generations by including these things in our curriculum and competitions.
Community: We seek to maximize the participation of the community we serve by creating a safe space that highlights the marching and music performing arts.
Inclusivity: We believe in creating an inclusive, inviting environment that embraces the differences of everybody and offers them undeniable respect. We welcome everyone to bring their entire, authentic selves to our competitions and events.
Creativity and Innovation: We thrive to always foster creativity and encourage new ideas.