Ecole d'Art et de Musique - EAM began its journey in **2008** when Gilbert S. Mouawad, an educator and musician from Zgharta, North Lebanon, founded a modest music school in collaboration with his friend Michel Acolat. The school, initially named **Acolat de Musique**, was established with the dream of making quality music education accessible to all.

By **2011**, the school recognized the growing demand for comprehensive music education and was rebranded as Ecole d’Art et de Musique (EAM). This marked the start of its mission to nurture a new generation of musicians and artists in Lebanon.

EAM continued to expand, opening a branch in Kfarsaroun, Koura, in **2012**, which reached its first musical generation in **2017** under the guidance of EAM’s professional staff, establishing a solid reputation for organization and quality.

Recognizing the value of continuous education, EAM inaugurated a summer school in Ehden in **2016**, set in a historic building amidst **300 sqm** of lush greenery, providing students a serene mountain environment to continue their musical growth.

A significant milestone was achieved in **2017** when EAM was officially recognized by the Lebanese Ministry of Education under decree 143 on February 17.

In **2018**, EAM opened a branch in Batroun, strategically located with beautiful city and seaview surroundings. This branch quickly became one of the most active in Lebanon.

In **2019**, the school embraced modern education methods by launching an online learning system, extending its reach beyond physical classrooms.

EAM continued its innovative expansion in **2021** by opening a branch internationally in Erbil, Iraq, under the name **بيت الفن والموسيقى**.

The Byblos branch opened in **2024** as the first technology-friendly school in the MENA region. Known as **EAM Byblos**, it features a kids' zone, largest reception area, recording studio, and a **marketing office, combining a complete experience for students and parents with high-quality instruments and tech-integrated learning.

Following this, **EAM Ghazir** opened in **2025**, designed as a modern, human-centered, and technology-friendly branch. With interactive boards, camera coverage, cinematic lighting, premium highway-access location, and comfortable classrooms, it provides a safe, bright, and innovative environment for students to grow creatively.

The **Batroun NewGen branch** launched in **2026**, building on the success of the original Batroun branch. With modernized classrooms, high-quality instruments, and an inspiring, technology-enhanced learning environment, it represents the next generation of music education, offering students and parents a truly vibrant and innovative experience.

Today, EAM continues to inspire students across Lebanon and beyond, fostering a love for music and art while empowering them to achieve their artistic dreams, blending tradition, innovation, and technology in every branch.

Dr. Gilbert S. Mouawad, born in Zgharta in northern Lebanon, first encountered the musical world at 13. Despite outdated methods and discouraging teaching techniques, he pursued his passion by moving to Beirut for a richer education. He earned a teaching diploma in Music Education from the Lebanese University in 2007 and a Master of Arts in Music from USEK in 2016, while also studying at music schools in Lebanon, Italy, and France.

In 2019, during his PhD studies at USEK, Dr. Mouawad won the National Research Day, leading him to the GISPA Lab in Grenoble, France ,where he studied the muscles related to voice anatomy and obtained his PhD high distinction degree in music education. In 2024, he obtained a diploma in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from the American University of Beirut, further fueling his vision for expanding music education.

In 2008, Dr. Mouawad founded École d'Art et de Musique, a private school dedicated to making music education accessible to children and adults in Lebanon, particularly in the North. The school became a haven for artistic and personal growth, fostering unity in a fragmented society.

Now, in 2025, Dr. Mouawad is the managing director of seven branches, with the school thriving after 17 years. He opened a branch in Byblos in 2024 and is actively expanding to more cities in Lebanon and abroad. His journey is a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of music and art.