September 6th, 2025 - As fall arrives, it's time to step into action! Join the Student Academy of Musical Leaders for our annual Fall Step-Off event at Downey High School. This event is tailored for students competing in band reviews, parades, and conducting field shows, and those eager to enhance or learn these skills while developing their leadership abilities. Don’t miss a step - register today and take your skills to the next level!
August 9th, 2025 - SAML alumnae Ju. Framan and H. Nakamura (2023 Principal Champion) lead the Pacific Crest and Mandarins DCI Drum Corps at the DCI World Championships at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.
April 12th, 2025 - A. Martin has historic day. In addition to her titles, Martin ties the record for most appearances in Open Traditional, brakes the record for most points earned in a single season as well as most points earned all-time.
April 12th, 2025 - SAML's 5th Annual Championships held at Garey High School, featured 126 performances. M. Jenkins of Chino HS was named 2025 Contemporary Champion and recipient of the John Doan Memorial Amaryllis Bowl.
April 5th, 2025 - The final contest of the season leading to the championship event featured 125 performances, included 15 Highland performances. E. Jaimes of Glendora HS earned gold in SAML’s first ever Highland contest!
2025 Champions
Traditional
Contemporary
Avant Garde
Conducting
Virtual
Top School
Grand Champion
T-Pattern
PROMOTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF STUDENT LEADERS
TO INSPIRE CHANGE IN THE MARCHING & MUSIC COMMUNITY
What We Do…
We provide student leaders in the 5th -12th grades involved in the marching and music performing arts a platform to challenge their creativity, advance their skills and leadership through modern competitive events and progressive education.
Student Academy of Musical Leaders (SAML) was founded by former Drum Majors and Music Leaders dedicated to the advancement of the marching and music performing arts.
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 a circuit that truly focuses on the ever-changing needs of student leaders involved in the marching and music performing arts.
SAML is based in Southern California and hopes to expand its reach in the future and is currently offering its programs to students in grades 5-12. SAML is also a 501(c)3 Non-Profit organization.