Santa Barbara Conservatory of Music Foundation:
Transformative Music Education for Every Student
Led by internationally acclaimed faculty, we nurture not just technical mastery,
but emotional intelligence and authentic self-expression through the profound art of music.
Santa Barbara Conservatory: Where Passion Meets Opportunity
Our location at the Shoreline Community Church
935 San Andres Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Email: office@sbconservatory.org
Phone: 805-394-8999
Teaching Philosophy
At Santa Barbara Conservatory of Music, we believe that music is one of the highest forms of human expression. When approached with care and dedication, it connects the mind, body, heart, and spirit, making it one of the most profoundly transformative human experiences. Read more from here
In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, where music is often overlooked in education, we see our role as more than just teaching students how to play notes. By contrast, our mission is to nurture emotional intelligence and self-discovery through music, helping each student not just play music, but truly to internalize and identify with it.
We value musical form as the most reliable guide for accessing and engaging with music’s essence and expressing its content, not as an abstract intellectual idea, but as something to be experienced directly through active music making. Read more from here
At our school, we approach form not as a preconceived mold, but rather as a musical work’s unique expressive design, and thus as a vital element of musical experience. We guide students to understand and feel the structure of that design from the inside out—recognizing the shape of a phrase, the movement of a section, and the flow of an entire piece. Throughout the learning process, we emphasize more than technical accuracy. Rather, we help students connect deeply with the sound itself and explore how musical form, understood as design, reveals the emotional and expressive core of a composition. In doing so, students grow not only as performers, but as thoughtful, engaged musicians.
Nurturing Musical Excellence Through Transformative Education
Private Music Lessons
Holistic, personalized mentoring that honors each student's unique pace, needs, and musical identity. Our internationally acclaimed faculty guide students beyond technical accuracy to deep musical understanding and authentic self-expression.
Ensemble Training
Collaborative Performance:
Join our ensemble programs to experience the joy of making music together. From chamber groups to orchestras, students hone their teamwork, communication, and musical expression in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Music Fundamentals Curriculum
Dive deep into the fundamentals of music theory and develop essential skills in ear training, harmony, and analysis through comprehensive classes that bring foundational knowledge to life—not as abstract concepts, but as practical tools for musical understanding. Students also explore the rich tapestry of musical history and the diverse traditions of musical expression across eras and cultures."
Classes Include:
Masterclasses and Workshops
Expert Insights:
Gain invaluable wisdom from renowned artists and experts through our masterclass series. These intimate sessions offer unique opportunities to refine your craft, expand your musical horizons, and be inspired by the best in the industry.
Performance Opportunities & Community Engagement
Showcase Your Talent:
We offer opportunities to perform in various communities, institutions, retirement communities, school, studio recitals.
Financial Aid Program
We believe financial circumstances should never prevent a young person from experiencing transformative music education. Through our scholarship program (launching date pending donor funding), Students from underserved communities will be offered full or partial scholarships to support their musical education.
Our Commitment:
- Need-based scholarships for qualified students
- Instrument loan program
- No student turned away due to financial need (upon program launch)
- We are currently seeking donors and community partners to establish our scholarship fund.

Faculty
Pascal Salomon (Pianist)
Pascal Salomon, an internationally acclaimed pianist, brings musical mastery and educational expertise to Southern California. He has performed across three continents, taught at prestigious institutions, and is committed to music education, integrating his research in music phenomenology into his teaching. Salomon holds leadership positions in local music organizations and nurtures a dynamic piano studio.
Emmanuel Fratianni
Emmanuel Fratianni, a Billboard Top-Ten artist, is a conductor, composer, and pianist based in Santa Barbara, California. With over 35 years of experience, he conducts prestigious American and international ensembles, including the San Francisco Symphony and the Spanish National Symphony. Fratianni is also an award-winning composer, known for his work in video games and multimedia productions.
Andrea DiMaggio
Andrea DiMaggio brings over 35 years of teaching experience and deep industry knowledge to his work with students and emerging artists. He tailors his instruction to enhance each student’s strengths while addressing gaps in their development, drawing on the practical methods of his mentors, including Dick Grove, Lou Levy, and Jack Feierman.
Nancy Mathison
Nancy Mathison, a Southern California native, is a versatile clarinetist and woodwind player. She has performed with various orchestras, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Santa Barbara Symphony, and has collaborated with renowned artists like Leonard Bernstein and Andrea Bocelli.
Mary Beth Rhodes-Woodruff, Violinist
Ms. Rhodes-Woodruff, a violinist, began studying at a young age and later taught at Biola University Conservatory of Music. She founded Santa Barbara Strings, training young musicians and composing works. She has performed with various orchestras and is currently on the faculty of Interlochen Center for the Arts and the Ballard School.
Learn MoreAlvise Pascucci
Alvise Pascucci, an Italian pianist, has won over 60 awards and performed at prestigious venues worldwide. He holds degrees from several Italian conservatories and is currently a DMA candidate at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Discover What's Next: Upcoming Events
Spring Concert Series
Date: May 10th - May 15th, 2024
Join us for a week-long celebration of musical talent featuring performances by our students, faculty, and special guests. From classical masterpieces to contemporary favorites, experience the beauty and diversity of music in our Spring Concert Series.
Chamber Music Workshop
Date: June 9th - June 13th, 2024
Immerse yourself in the art of chamber music during our intensive workshop led by acclaimed chamber musicians. Collaborate with fellow musicians, refine your ensemble skills, and explore repertoire spanning various genres and eras.
Music Theory Bootcamp
Date: July 17th - July 19th, 2024
Sharpen your understanding of music theory in our immersive bootcamp designed for students of all levels. From basic concepts to advanced techniques, dive deep into harmony, counterpoint, analysis, and more under the guidance of expert instructors.
Why Choose the Santa Barbara Conservatory of Music Foundation?
Skill Enhancement
Boost your musical prowess with our rigorous training, tailored to propel your skills to new heights.
Mentorship Access
Gain unparalleled access to personalized mentorship, guiding you on your path to musical excellence.
Financial Support
Experience no barriers to your growth with our financial aid for underserved children, making music education accessible.
Artistic Growth
Unleash your full potential and grow as both a musician and an individual with our comprehensive support.
Community Belonging
Join a community where musicians thrive together, fostering connections and lifelong friendships in music.
Performance Opportunities
Showcase your talent and hard work through ample performance opportunities, gaining invaluable stage experience.
Professional Networking
Open doors to your future in music with our networking opportunities, connecting you with industry professionals.
Creative Expression
Find your unique voice and express your creativity in a supportive, encouraging environment.
Technical Mastery
Master the technicalities of music with our focused, in-depth training sessions designed for excellence.
Join Our Community
Registration Form
Welcome to Santa Barbara Conservatory of Music! We're thrilled that you're interested in joining our musical community. Please fill out the form below with detailed information to help us tailor your experience and provide you with the best possible support on your musical journey.
Get in Touch
For general inquiries, program details, or to schedule a consultation, please use the details below. We respond to all messages within 1-2 business days.
Email: office@sbconservatory.org
Phone: 805-394-8999
Have a specific question? Fill out the form below, and we'll respond as soon as possible.