What is LACESMA?

In 1941, under the leadership of William C. Hartshorn, Music Supervisor for the Los Angeles City Schools, the Los Angeles City Elementary Schools Music Association (LACESMA) was incorporated in the State of California for the purpose of promoting quality music education. Over the years, the not-for-profit 501(c)3 status of the organization has allowed LACESMA to use donations and membership funds to support our music students and music teachers in a variety of ways.

For Students

Scholarships are awarded annually by audition for LAUSD elementary school instrumental music students.  These scholarships fund lessons with a private teacher.  Many of the recipients would otherwise receive only group instruction at school. Past winners have continued in music, participating in high school and college bands and orchestras. Some become professional performers and teachers. 

LACESMA provides performance opportunities for selected scholarship winners in several venues where they perform for peers, parents, friends and teachers.

For Teachers

LACESMA is the voice of advocacy for our teachers to the LAUSD Administrators, helping the district to promote quality year-long sequential music education for all elementary students.