Overview
Welcome
The Pasadena Conservatory of Music is an independent nonprofit community music school that is proud to provide a comprehensive curriculum of music study to students in and around Pasadena, California.
We invite you to pursue your interest in music at the Pasadena Conservatory of Music, whether you are a student, parent, professional, audience member, or patron of the arts. The Conservatory's comprehensive curriculum and extensive schedule of performances, masterclasses and professional workshops offer many opportunities to become involved in our school.
Music instruction is offered at the Conservatory for anyone in the community--infants, senior citizens and everyone in between. The novice has a place in our musical community as does the emerging artist. Our lessons and classes are for those who want to engage in music as a subject - learning to make music, listening to music, expanding their knowledge about music. Wherever you may find yourself on your musical journey, welcome to the Pasadena Conservatory of Music.
Mission
It is the mission of the Conservatory to educate, advocate, inspire and share:
- to educate through a comprehensive music curriculum taught by an exceptional faculty;
- to advocate for the value of music study;
- to inspire through our performances of the old, new, traditional and avant-garde; and
- to share our expertise insofar as possible without regard to socio-economic background.
Our mission speaks of our roles as educators, advocates, musicians and community members.
Vision
It is the vision of the Conservatory:
- To provide a program of excellence while maintaining a position of open access;
- To encourage the development of individual musical identity while enriching our musical community.
Excellence
The word "Conservatory" evokes images of tradition and excellence. We celebrate our roots in centuries of musical practices and embrace the discipline that music study requires; recognizing that it provides students an opportunity to develop their capacity for excellence.
Access
The Conservatory provides an entry point to engage with music - classes for infants and the very young, lessons for the beginner, outreach and financial aid programs for the underserved. It is our vision to serve the community through music programs and, insofar as possible, provide access to these programs regardless of age, talent or socio-economic background.
Individuals
Musical aptitude is universal. It is our work to encourage the development of this aptitude in our students with an appreciation and respect for each one's individuality.
Community
The Conservatory is a community (students, parents, teachers, musicians, board members, donors, volunteers and staff) drawn together by our subject - music. Through our programs and performances, we train the musicians and audiences of the future. These programs and performances reflect our concept of the community music school and our role in the community at large.
History
Incorporated on New Year's Eve 1983 by founders Silke Sauppe and Wynne Stone, the Conservatory began its operations in space rented from a small church, with a faculty of eight, led by a volunteer administration. It has since grown to an established institution enrolling over 1300 students annually, taught by an exceptional and highly educated music faculty of over fifty. The school operates from its own campus in central Pasadena and is recognized for the vital role it plays in the cultural and educational communities.
Accreditation
The Pasadena Conservatory of Music is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Precollegiate Arts Schools and is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music. The Conservatory belongs to the National Guild for Community Arts Education and is a member of the Pasadena Arts Council.
Policies & Procedures
A copy of student policies and procedures is mailed to every student at the beginning of the school year. In addition, copies are available in the administration office throughout the school year and will be mailed to students upon request. The following are among subjects covered in policies and procedures:
- Enrollment and Registration
- Payments and Refunds
- Student conduct
- Safety and Supervision
- Facilities
The Conservatory does not discriminate on the basis of socio-economic background in its enrollment practices.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
The Pasadena Conservatory of Music offers need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships. The financial aid and scholarship policies and procedures pamphlet is available in the office throughout the year and will be mailed to students upon request. It contains guidelines for applying for and receiving financial aid and specifies the application period. It also contains policies and guidelines for merit scholarships.
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