Santa Barbara Conservatory

Teaching Philosophy

At the 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.

Currently Offered:
- Piano
- Violin
- Flute
- Clarinet
- Voice
- Composition/Arrangements
- Music Initiation (Carl Orff Method)
Levels:
- Grade 1–12 students — annual exams determine advancement to the next level
- Personalized, self-paced program for adults

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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.

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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:

Ear Training
Music Theory (all levels)
Music History & Appreciation
Composition & Arrangement
Music Initiation (Carl Orff method) for early childhood

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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.

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Performance Opportunities & Community Engagement

Showcase Your Talent:

We offer opportunities to perform in various communities, institutions, retirement communities, school, studio recitals.

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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.

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Faculty

Pascal Salomon (Pianist)

Drawing from a distinguished career as a globally acclaimed concert pianist and educator, Pascal Salomon is the visionary founder of the Santa Barbara Conservatory of Music Foundation. His profound passion for Music Phenomenology, cultivated through extensive academic and performance experience across continents, underpins the Conservatory's unique approach. Pascal carries the singular vision for this institution, driven by a deep belief in music's power to foster identity and stability for young people, ensuring a truly transformative educational experience for every student.

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Emmanuel Fratianni

With over 35 years in a wide-ranging music career, Emmanuel Fratiani brings practical industry insight and a passion for mentoring musicians of all ages. His mission is to nurture each student’s unique artistic voice through an inspiring, personalized approach that strengthens skills and fills learning gaps. Guided by mentors Dick Grove, Lou Levy, and Jack Feierman, their teaching emphasizes clarity, practicality, and musical confidence.

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Andrea DiMaggio

Andrea Di Maggio is a sought-after flutist and dedicated teacher known for her “silken tone and evident mastery.” Trained at San Jose State University and UCSB on full scholarship, she brings award-winning artistry and deep pedagogical experience to her students. As flute professor at Westmont College and a committed private instructor, she mentors musicians with clarity, encouragement, and a passion for expressive excellence. She also teaches the renowned Carl Orff music-initiation approach for early childhood.

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Nancy Mathison

Nancy Mathison brings a rich performing career to her teaching, drawing on experience with ensembles such as the New West Symphony, Santa Maria Philharmonic, and the Chicago Symphony. Trained at USC and UCSB and shaped by mentors Gary Foster, James Kanter, and Mitchell Lurie, she founded the South Coast Youth Band of Santa Barbara. She is dedicated to guiding students with clarity, professionalism, and a deep love for musical excellence.

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Mary Beth Rhodes-Woodruff, Violinist

Ms. Rhodes-Woodruff is a devoted music educator whose distinguished training shapes her mission to nurture young musicians. After studies at Interlochen, MIT, NEC, and Carnegie Mellon, she found her calling in teaching—building confidence, artistry, and opportunity for students. As founder of Santa Barbara Strings, the most prominent strings program in Santa Barbara County, she creates inclusive programs that support diverse learners and inspire each student to discover their unique musical voice.

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Alvise Pascucci

Alvise Pascucci is a distinguished Italian pianist whose international career is matched by a deep calling to teach. Praised for his virtuosity and artistry, he brings the same dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians. With training from renowned conservatories in Europe and the U.S., Alvise is committed to sharing his expertise with students and inspiring their musical growth.

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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.

Testimonials

❝ I’d like to express a few sentiments about Pascal Salomon, who has been our three kids’ piano teacher for the last 6 years. Pascal is simply a gem. He is clearly a highly skilled piano instructor with a slew of accolades and skills; but beyond checking all the standard boxes one expects, I’d like to focus on a few of Pascal’s unique traits. Our three kids could not be more different in their personalities, strengths, and challenges, and Pascal has an impressive ability to teach to each kid’s personality, drawing out the best in each one. He accomplishes this through establishing a connection to the kids and gaining their trust. There is never a doubt in our kids’ minds about Pascal’s full support and good intentions; and they correspondingly approach their lessons with effort, rigor, and joy. Simply put, his lessons are more than just piano lessons. ❞

— ANIA BLESZYNSKI JAYICH
Professor, Department Of Physics
Director, Ucsb Quantum Foundry
University Of California
Santa Barbara, California 93106-9530

❝ As an adult student I have been deeply impressed by the professionalism and empathy of Pascal Salomon, piano instructor at the Santa Barbara Conservatory of Music. His teaching combines technical excellence with a thoughtful, compassionate approach that fosters both confidence and musical growth. Each lesson is structured yet encouraging, allowing me to progress at my own pace while continually being challenged to improve. The supportive environment he creates has reignited my passion for music and transformed my learning experience into something truly rewarding. ❞

— Philip Prinz

❝ As a retired history professor who returned to the piano after 40 years of not playing, I greatly admire Professor Pascal Salomon’s talents as performer and teacher. To hear his students of all ages perform is to appreciate his love of teaching and his ability to develop the distinctive talents of each individual.

I’m playing at the advanced intermediate level, and am grateful that he is mentor, coach, ever encouraging—a true partner in my learning process. His technical advice is invaluable. Through all the details needed to master each work, his ultimate goal—and now mine as well—is that I learn to communicate the emotion and soul of the music. I look forward to each lesson and see real progress in my playing. ❞

— Barbara Lindemann

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Our programs are tailored to every skill level, ensuring beginners feel supported and can progress at their pace.

With the support of donors and sponsors, we are developing a need-based financial assistance program to make music education accessible to all.

Absolutely, our rigorous training and personalized mentorship are designed to significantly enhance your musical aptitude, both technically and musically.

Yes, we provide ample performance opportunities to showcase your talent and gain invaluable stage experience.

Our programs are flexible, allowing students to balance their music education with school or work commitments effectively.

Yes, we provide career guidance to help navigate the music industry and pursue your passion successfully, notably through assessment exams, scholarship competitions and auditions, regional competitions, and music colleges enrollments and auditions.

— ANIA BLESZYNSKI JAYICHProfessor, Department Of PhysicsDirector, Ucsb Quantum FoundryUniversity Of CaliforniaSanta Barbara, California 93106-9530

— Philip Prinz

— Barbara Lindemann

Is the training too challenging for beginners?

How can I afford the tuition fees?

Will I really improve my skills?

Are there opportunities for real performance?

Can I balance this with school or work?

Do you offer any career guidance?

— ANIA BLESZYNSKI JAYICH
Professor, Department Of Physics
Director, Ucsb Quantum Foundry
University Of California
Santa Barbara, California 93106-9530