imagine…
Imagine attending a public high school in the heart of downtown St. Paul, unlike any other in the country. Learn the skills and techniques to become a professional artist from current working artists. Receive a college conservatory level arts education under the guidance of current professional artists. Prepare for college academically in on-level, advanced or AP classes.
No audition. No tuition
SPCPA provides authentic arts training taught by current professional artists using the conservatory model while delivering rigorous academics aligned with Minnesota state standards in English, math, science, social studies, and world languages. Students engage in a comprehensive educational experience that integrates college-preparatory academics with intensive arts instruction in a supportive, creative community.
I had an amazing experience at this arts school! From the moment I walked through the door, I felt inspired by the creativity and talent all around me. The faculty and staff were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, always pushing me to be my best and never giving up on me. Not only did I develop my artistic skills in ways I never imagined, but I also made lasting friendships with fellow students who share my passion for the arts. The resources and opportunities available at this school are unparalleled, and I feel so grateful to have been a part of such a vibrant and welcoming community. I would highly recommend this arts school to anyone looking to grow their talents and discover their potential as an artist.
An important part of SPCPA’s purpose is to connect the students and the school to the Twin Cities professional arts community in a number of ways.
Need more?
Welcome to SPCPA Miguel Gonzalez!
Miguel Gonzalez is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer known for his genre-defying approach to the guitar. Originally from Monterrey, Mexico, Miguel’s musical journey began with a rigorous foundation in Classical Guitar at the Superior School of Music of Monterrey. He later expanded his expertise into Music Production at the Monterrey Institute of Technology and Composition at the University of Music of Monterrey.
After relocating to St. Paul, Minnesota, Miguel was awarded the prestigious Honor Scholarship at McNally Smith College of Music and ultimately earned his BM in Classical Guitar Performance from Augsburg University.
As a dynamic performer, Miguel serves as the lead guitarist for the Progressive Rock project Materalia, and the Latin ensemble Alma Andina. His influence extends into the digital sphere as an endorsed artist for Koloss Guitars, Talon Guitar Picks, and Kirlin Cables. With over 15 years of pedagogical experience as the founder of MGzzMusic Academy, Miguel bridges the gap between traditional technique and modern industry success, helping students find their unique voice in today’s diverse musical landscape.
We’re thrilled to have Miguel bringing his experience, creativity, and passion for music to SPCPA! 🎸💚🖤
#spcpa #theworldneedsmoreartists #weholdeachotherup … See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Smile or don't smile…but yearbook and ID photos will be tomorrow at SPCPA! Photos will be taken from 1:00-3:00. If you had your picture taken at Back-to-School Night then you're all set. If not please bring your smiles (or non smiles) this Friday!
#weholdeachotherup #spcpa #theworldneedsmoreartists … See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Say cheese, SPCPA! 😁📸
Picture Day is this Friday, September 11th.
It’s time to capture the students, artists, and people who make our school community so special. 💚🖤
Get ready to show off your best smile! … See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
SPCPA Fiber Arts club is back!
Fiber Arts offers a safe dedicated space, where fiber artists (or those who want to learn) can meet and unwind during the school week and form connections over a shared interest. Free supplies and lessons are available to all our members to ensure the craft is accessible to every student.
Meetings are Tuesdays after school in room 306.
#SPCPA #spcpafiberartsclub #weholdeachotherup #theworldneedsmoreartists #alecisamazing … See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Today's the day SPCPA!
If you are going to the State Fair today don't forget to stop by the Grandstand at 7:30 to cheer on Ananda in the Finals of the Amateur Talent Contest!
We are very proud of Ananda! 💚🖤
#spcpaproud #weholdeachotherup #spcpa #theworldneedsmoreartists … See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
SPCPA Spotlight
Over 300 students auditioned for the Minnesota State Fair Amateur Talent Contest. Out of 42 teen semifinalists SPCPA’s own Ananda Dunigan WON 1ST PLACE!!!
A junior at SPCPA, Ananda blew the crowd away with her rendition of Late Nights and Heartbreak by Hannah Williams and the Affirmations.
We’re so proud of Ananda—but she’s not done yet! She has advanced to the FINALS this Sunday, September 6, at 7:30 PM at the Grandstand!
Going to the Fair this Sunday? Grandstand tickets are FREE! Come cheer Ananda on and show some SPCPA support from the crowd! 💚🖤
Good luck in the finals, Ananda! We are #SPCPAPROUD of you!
#spcpa #weholdeachotherup #theworldneedsmoreartists #minnesotastatefair … See MoreSee Less
4 CommentsComment on Facebook
We are back!
What an amazing first week at SPCPA! A big welcome to all of our new students and staff, and welcome back to everyone returning to our community. Our building is full of energy, creativity, and students finding their rhythm again.
Thank you to our students, families, and staff for a great start. We can't wait to see what happens next! 💚🖤
#spcpa #weholdeachotherup #theworldneedsmoreartists … See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Welcome to SPCPA Paul Fonfara@
Paul is a multi-instrumentalist composer, songwriter, producer and all-around nice guy.
He has toured numerous times throughout the US, Canada and Europe as both a soloist and band member with performances on NPR and BBC. He has been awarded 5 grants for composition, writing for chamber orchestra, Balkan’s style brass bands and songwriting collaborations. As a songwriter, Paul has recorded 5 albums that are an eclectic mix of effects laden odd meter post punk, Eastern European folk and jazz. His last mostly instrumental record received a 4 star review in Downbeat Magazine and in 2024 produced an album of Venezuelan folk songs that was voted best new Latin release on Billboard and a first round selection for a Grammy. In addition to numerous commissions to score and perform for silent films, Paul has scored documentaries for Netflix, Hulu/Disney and writes for NBC/Universal. Often collaborating with West Thordson for feature films, Paul’s playing can be heard on M Night Shyamalan’s Glass, Queen of Bones and in the outro credits of Breaking Bad El Camino. Paul’s music has been placed in over 70 episodes of TV world wide.
Paul has been teaching clarinet, saxophone and guitar lessons in the metro area since 2005 as well as general music, band and music therapy in Minneapolis Public Schools.
We are excited to have you on our team! #spcpa #weholdeachotherup #theworldneedsmoreartists … See MoreSee Less
8 CommentsComment on Facebook
📣All Students Start Monday! 📣
A reminder that all SPCPA students start school this Monday, August 17! This is a change from previous years, so we wanted to make sure everyone has it on their calendar.
Doors open by 7:30 AM, classes start at 8:00 AM.
We can’t wait to welcome everyone back! 💚🖤
#spcpa #weholdeachotherup #theworldneedsmoreartists … See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook