Outreach Programs

The outreach programs of the Pasadena Conservatory of Music provides ACCESS to EXCELLENCE in musical experience and instruction for over 3,000 children annually because of the generosity of individuals, organizations and foundations that recognize that music study enriches a child’s life in myriad ways.

Yes, studies now assure us that music study has a positive effect on academic outcome. More difficult to measure are effects on those intangibles that make a child’s life interesting and joyful. Shall we even say exciting? Why not? Any life is more valued if it is meaningful, if those things that are curiouser and curiouser are placed before us. Music is of that ilk. A child studying music exercises mind, body and senses. The child learns to think, feel, listen, explore and create.  In short, the child becomes a whole human being.

Pasadena Unified School District Project

The programs in PCM's Outreach Project for students of PUSD provide students with developmentally-appropriate music education delivered by qualified and experienced Conservatory faculty.

Young Musicians Program at Jefferson Elementary

All preschool, kindergarten, first, second, third and fourth grade classrooms at Jefferson Elementary currently receive 32 weeks of music education from Conservatory teachers employing the curriculum of the Conservatory’s Young Musicians program. Students learn the fundamentals of music, including melody, rhythm, tempo, dynamics and expression. The curriculum exceeds state standards for grade-level music education.

Guitar for All

Low income students enrolled in San Gabriel Valley schools at the upper elementary and middle school level are selected to receive weekly tuition-free guitar lessons with Conservatory teachers.

Instrument Rental Program

The Conservatory makes over 150 instruments available for rent at a nominal fee for students in the Pasadena Unified School District.

Music Mobile

Assemblies conducted by Conservatory teachers introduce third grade students hroughout San Gabriel Valley to the concepts of classical music and to the four families of instruments that comprise an orchestra. Students become familiar with the look and sound of orchestral instruments and are given an opportunity to touch and play those instruments. The program is sponsored by the Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts.

See the Music Mobile on KCET's Life and Times

Financial Aid and Scholarship Program

The Conservatory's financial aid program provides need-based assistance for individual or class instruction at the Conservatory. Merit-based scholarships are also offered to students who demonstrate exceptional abilities and a strong commitment to music study.