Elite Showband Program
Lakehouse Pros.
The highest level of musicianship and LhMA's go-to ensemble for events. For serious performers ages 13 to 19. Perform live, write original music, and record an EP at Lakehouse Recording Studios.
6 mo.
Season Length
8-12
Students Per Ensemble
2-4
Tracks Recorded
13+
Age Requirement
Original Songwriting
✦
Professional EP Recording
✦
Live Gigs June - October
✦
Auditions April 16, 2026
✦
Mixed and Mastered Tracks
✦
Elite Musicianship
✦
Original Songwriting
✦
Professional EP Recording
✦
Live Gigs June - October
✦
Auditions April 16, 2026
✦
Mixed and Mastered Tracks
✦
Elite Musicianship
✦
What Is Lakehouse Pros
A Real Music Career, Starting Now.
Lakehouse Pros is the pinnacle of the Lakehouse Music Academy student journey for teens. It's an intentionally small, audition-only ensemble that gives elite young musicians the same experiences working professionals have - gigging at top local venues, writing original music, and releasing a recorded EP.
We develop true musicians and artists, not just cover performers.
The ensemble runs April through October - a full six-month season of weekly rehearsals, live performances, and collaborative songwriting, culminating in a professional recording session and EP release celebration.
Drums
Keys
Guitar 1
Guitar 2
Bass
Vocals
Each instrument features a 1st and 2nd Chair - recognizing individual excellence while providing growth opportunities for all members.
PROS.
ONLY.
Spring / Summer 2026 Season
This program is intentionally kept small - 8 to 12 students - to maintain professional-level musical cohesion and give every member real stage time.
Requirements and Commitment
What It Takes To Be a Pro
Lakehouse Pros is an elite ensemble. Acceptance means serious dedication to the craft, to your bandmates, and to the season.
01
Eligibility
Must be 13 or older and actively enrolled in the Core Program throughout the entire season. Green Stripe achievement is recommended but not required.
02
Attendance
Maximum of 2 excused absences for the entire season. Must arrive on time and stay for the full 90-minute rehearsal each week.
03
Gig Commitment
Priority availability for all performances June through October. These are real gigs at real venues.
04
Professional Conduct
Stage professionalism, preparedness, and a collaborative attitude are non-negotiable. This is how professionals operate.
How To Join
The Audition
Prepare a 1:30 - 3:00 minute piece that showcases who you are as a musician. Solo performance or with a backing track - your call. Vocalists: no tracks with pre-recorded vocal parts.
Auditions are 15-minute slots. Music Director Paul Ritchie and the team are looking for:
- General musicianship and command of your instrument
- Stage presence and professionalism
- Pocket and time feel - do you lock in?
- Tone, pitch, and dynamic control
Don't overthink the song choice. Play something that genuinely represents your best at this moment. Authenticity over complexity.
Sign-up deadline: April 1, 2026. Use the form below to reserve your audition slot.
Important Dates
Sign-Up Deadline
April 1, 2026
Auditions
April 16, 2026
Lakehouse Red Bank
Lakehouse Red Bank
Acceptance Notifications
April 18, 2026
First Rehearsal
April 28, 2026
Mondays 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Mondays 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Gig Season Opens
June 2026
Season Finale and EP Recording
October 2026
What You Get
The Lakehouse Pros Experience
🎙️
Professional EP Recording
End-of-season studio session producing a 2-4 track EP including original songs - mixed, mastered, and yours to keep. Optional purchase of individual tracks for families.
🎸
Real Gigs at Real Venues
First call for premium gigs and showcases at top local venues. Spotlight partnership gigs with local businesses, plus festival and battle-of-the-bands submissions.
✍️
Original Songwriting
Collaboratively write 2-3 originals during the season with workshop support, Artist Program partnerships, and a dedicated Originals showcase at the season finale.
🎓
Mentorship and Recognition
Direct mentorship from advanced instructors and letters of recommendation for college or scholarship applications. Access to the program's alumni network.
🎉
EP Release Party
Season wraps with an EP release celebration and the chance to share your music with the entire Lakehouse community. A real moment worth marking.
The Path Here
The Lakehouse Pros Pathway
Lakehouse Pros is the destination - earned through dedication at every level of the Academy.
🎵
Private Lessons
📚
Core Program
🎤
Show Band Audition
⭐
Lakehouse Pros
Sign-up deadline: April 1, 2026
Ready to
Audition?
Reserve your 15-minute audition slot using the sign-up form. Spots are limited - this program is intentionally small.
Sign Up to Audition →