Why I Give

Thanks to outstanding leadership and support, the Pasadena Conservatory is a thriving, nationally accredited community resource for music study and performance. A key element in the Conservatory's success is its commitment to funding the annual operating budget through a ratio of approximately 75% earned and 25% contributed income. This business model has enabled the Conservatory to attract and retain an excellent faculty; to develop a comprehensive curriculum; and to provide an excellent environment for music study while keeping its tuition affordable.

The Conservatory receives annual support through grants from foundation and organizations and especially through two individual fundraising appeals-the Patron Drive in the summer and the Annual Fund in the fall. Contributions such as memorial and honor gifts are also received throughout the year. These gifts from PCM family and community members, combined with the generosity of the Board and Advisory Board, provide important support for the Conservatory's music programs, masterclasses and community concerts. Individuals who contribute aggregate gifts of $250 or more during the year receive priority invitations to the Mansions & Music concert series and other special events. The Conservatory is grateful to the generous individuals who support PCM and its efforts to provide the highest quality music education for the community. We look forward to acknowledging these donors in the Annual Report published in November.

Carol Bramhall

“I am enthusiastic about PCM! The very first Mansions & Music concert I attended was just the start of many rewarding times ahead. Music and art have always been a big part of my life-classical at Carnegie Hall, dancing to the big band music of Tommy Dorsey and Benny Goodman, plus salsa and rumba to the Cuban beat!

“The in-depth history classes taught by Priscilla Pawlicki are a learning treat, as were those taught by Carlos Rivera. In addition, the Conservatory's A Tour Through Time recitals at the Norton Simon Museum present an extraordinary and unique combination of art and music through the ages.

“I find that the master classes and student recitals are special opportunities for me to witness students' growth in confidence and performance abilities. I feel a great sense of pride and affection for those young musicians, especially for those I have followed over the years. I love watching the littlest ones with their eyes focused on their teacher while tapping on a xylophone or a drum.

“What captivates me about this exceptional place is the children– their dedication and hard work. Their reward is knowing that they have the gift of music forever!”

Learn more about Carol Bramhall

Patsy Ketchum

“I've been involved with the Conservatory almost from its beginning, attending classes in the two little white bungalows in north Pasadena. I'm inspired by PCM's growth and outreach into the community, under and by the devotion and creativity of Stephen McCurry. The Conservatory realizes there's a need for music education that's not being met in the schools.

“I have attended and enjoyed many of Priscilla Pawlicki's music history classes for adults. I find the Conservatory's multi-faceted approach to music education for all ages very inspiring.”

Learn more about Patsy Ketchum

Jane Kaczmarek

“Music is the balm for all that ails me in life and the busier my life becomes, the more important PCM has become. It is my haven. The place I go to for peace and contemplation and camaraderie. I am so lucky to be living in Pasadena and to have PCM as my home away from home.”

Learn more about Jane Kaczmarek

Olin Barrett

“I give to the Pasadena Conservatory of Music because it is a unique community resource with outstanding leadership. PCM's commitment to supporting the Pasadena Unified School District, its range of programs for music students of all ages and its national accreditation are among distinctive indicators of excellence.”

Learn more about Olin Barrett

Elisa and Eric Callow

“The Pasadena Conservatory of Music is one of those rare institutions that is: thoughtful and uniformly excellent in its approaches to actualizing its mission generous in its partnering with individuals and community organizations, maintains a consistent practice of self-evaluation and is financially responsible. All of this is achieved while maintaining a commitment to the forward momentum of a vision that continues to extend its value, quality and innovation.”

Learn more about Elisa and Eric Callow

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