I don't know about you, but when I hear the word conservatory, I think conservative. (Not one of my favorite words these days, but that's another article...) I think classical music and string quartets, not Rock School and Battle of the Bands. Conservatory conjures up smugness and exclusivity, not community. But hey, you can learn something every day. There's a whole new paradigm in music education: South Pasadena Music Center and Conservatory and it ROCKS.

SPMCC is every bit a Conservatory in the European classical tradition. The instructors are world-class, the course offerings are broad and rigorous, and Creative Director Almer Imamovic has vast and respectable experience. (Just read the bios, they'll blow your mind.) Serious students have gone on to study at LACHSA, Berkeley College of Music, and USC's Thornton School of Music, to name a few; and beginning students continue to develop a solid foundation.

But, South Pasadena Music Center and Conservatory departs somewhat from traditional music schools in that it offers Jazz Studies and Rock and Contemporary Music Studies, as well. These two curricular disciplines are equally emphasized and exceptionally well-staffed. Students also have the unique opportunity to play in a myriad of ensembles-- like Jazz, Guitar, Flute, and Vocals-- and let me tell you, there is no better experience than making music with a group of peers.

Rock School, one of the most popular programs offered, is definitely a step forward in the evolution of conservatories. This is a 12-week program during which students are grouped by ability, coached through the learning of a classic or modern rock song, and ultimately record a CD of an original composition. When they "graduate", the bands participate in the Battle of the Bands, which draws hundreds of people from miles around. (Winter semester Rock School begins January 10, 2008. Summer Rock School has a completely different schedule, so check the website for more info.)

Even better than the top-notch instruction from the incredibly well-educated staff, and the plethora of classes available, is the community that has grown at SPMCC. And while there are loads of young hipsters taking music lessons, there are a good number of grown-up adults starting anew or picking up where they left off with a beloved pastime. (You know, like after you get a job that consumes all your free time, or you become a parent, and somehow your guitar just collects dust in the corner...) The community is truly diverse-- young and old, beginners and experts, from all over Los Angeles, all interacting with music at the highest level.

Owners Walter and Rachel Zooi had community in mind when they opened their doors four years ago. Walter laughs when he says, "You don't open a music store hoping to make tons of money. You do it because you want to do something that is meaningfully woven into life, woven into the community." Not only are these people visionary, they are phenomenally generous. All proceeds from Battle of the Bands and other community concerts go directly to public school music programs. The Zoois are in the process of forming a non-profit to provide scholarships for students who need and deserve them. They are also organizing an outreach program that will target inner-city schools and help endow public music programs. (Wouldn't it be grand if the conservatives followed suit?)

I love taking my kids into SPMCC for their lessons because I know I'm doing something good for them. But I also appreciate the vibe of the place for myself, interacting with all the other people who love music. I feel hopeful when I'm there. The staff is very cool-- Samantha and Miranda are great help with rentals, lessons and instrument sales... and they're absolute dolls. Open Mic Night is every other Thursday and there are student recitals and community concerts to look forward to. Check the website event calendar for details. There is plenty of parking, and SPMCC is only a two block walk from the Metro Gold Line Mission Station-- which is not a big deal... unless you're lugging a tuba up the street.

South Pasadena Music Center and Conservatory
1509 Mission St.
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Phone: 626-403-2300
Fax: 626-403-2329

Store Hours
Monday - Friday: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
Saturday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Closed Sunday

www.southpasadenamusic.com

kat@la2day.com

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