The Dhow Countries Music Academy (DCMA) is a non-profit, cultural and educational organization established in March 2001. DCMA opened a music school in Stone Town, Zanzibar in 2002 providing music lessons as well as instruments at minimal cost to anyone interested in studying music or acquiring mastery of an instrument. Particular emphasis is placed on teaching traditional Zanzibar music styles, such as Taarab, Beni and Kidumbak, with most of the teachers coming from Zanzibar. Occasional master classes and some guest teachers from outside give the musicians the opportunity to further their professional excellence.

The school is designed to consist of 6 major components: -

Music Lessons (e.g. Violin, Oud, Qanun, Cello, Guitar, etc)
Student Scholarship program (sponsoring talented individuals including opportunities to win instruments through competition)
Music Library (providing all necessary instruments for use in the Academy as well as music notes, lyrics, recordings, etc)
Student Orchestra (music from Zanzibar and the Dhow Region)
Music Agency (to promote musicians from Zanzibar and actively seek out new job opportunities nationally as well as internationally)
Workshops and Seminars

The Music Academy provides an opportunity to preserve and develop the unique musical tradition of Zanzibar and provides educational, vocational training and job opportunities.