ABOUT US

ABOUT PASADENA MUSIC ACADEMY

PASADENA MUSIC ACADEMY (formerly Modern Music School) was created in 2011 to give students and their families a fun, safe, and supportive place within their community where they could build confidence and explore their own creativity through the joy of music. 

With over 1000 students, we believe our success stems from the amazing community we’ve built here. Our team works hard everyday to create a supportive and energetic environment where students are excited to arrive and learn something new. 

Currently, we offer private music lessons to students of all ages and experience levels in piano, guitar, voice, drums, bass, DJ, music production, ukulele, violin, viola, trombone, saxophone, trumpet, flute, clarinet and early childhood music classes.

Join our amazing community today and discover new inspiration and a passion for making music that will last a lifetime. 

Posted on Yelp Yelp
Mingchun F. profile picture
Mingchun F.
July 18, 2026
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
My boy has been taking lessons at PMA since 2024 and he's learning and his instrumental skills improve so much. His drum teacher is Ardem and guitar teacher is Tracy. Both of Tracy and Ardem are the best, talented, patience, fun with kids and first time learners. My boy built up strong musical foundation thanks to them!
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Megan G. profile picture
Megan G.
July 16, 2026
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Only good things at PMA! My daughter began taking lessons in the late spring with Marcella and has made such tremendous progress, not only with her vocals but also stage presence and performance. A few weeks into lessons, Marcella recommended my daughter sign up for the recital. On the day of the recital our family was shocked at the progress made - she received a standing ovation! All thanks to Marcella! My daughter really enjoys having her as a vocal coach/instructor and looks forward to each session. She's patient, engaging and has built up my daughter's confidence, all while teaching technique, developing vocal skills. The front desk at PMA are also incredibly helpful and easy to contact, whether by phone, text or email. I appreciate how easy it is to book makeup lessons and change schedules online. My daughter also enjoys seeing Marcella's feedback and thoughtful comments posted after each lesson.
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Rev T. profile picture
Rev T.
June 28, 2026
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
We've had an amazing experience at PMA! Ardem has been an incredible drum teacher--patient, encouraging, and inspiring. Our son has grown so much as a drummer and genuinely looks forward to every lesson. We're grateful for everything Ardem and the PMA team have done and highly recommend them to anyone looking for great music instruction.
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Jesse G. profile picture
Jesse G.
June 7, 2026
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I started my daughter at PMA on the recommendation of a friend who is a musician, and we have been so happy with our experience there! My daughter has been taking voice lessons with Ms. Kris for a few months now, and she absolutely loves them. From the moment she walked out of her first lesson, my daughter was begging to keep taking lessons with her. My daughter didn't even want to skip her lesson on her birthday, and that says a lot. What more could you want as a parent?
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California L. profile picture
California L.
May 30, 2026
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
My son LOVES his teacher, Daniel. He's a grumpy 13 year old boy, but he lights up when he sees Daniel. He's learning to love and enjoy Piano. This school is great at communication, scheduling make-ups, etc. We are very happy here.
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Aaa Bbb
October 6, 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
We’ve had such a wonderful experience at this music school! Both of my boys really enjoyed their lessons, and we were very happy with their teachers, Ms. Elizabeth and Ms. Jessica. Ms. Elizabeth is very patient, attentive, and encouraging. She always made my son feel comfortable and helped him stay engaged and confident during his lessons. Ms. Jessica is warm, kind, and encouraging, and she made learning music fun and enjoyable for my other son. He always looked forward to his lessons with her. We’re taking a break for now because of our boys’ busy school and extracurricular schedules, but we’re truly grateful for the wonderful experience they had here. We would definitely recommend this school and both teachers to other families! ❤️
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Michelle Birmingham profile picture
Michelle Birmingham
September 26, 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My daughter has been taking drum lessons for 3 months now and it's been amazing. Her primary teacher is Lucas but she has had a substitute when he's not available. School is very communicative and detailed with changes; how long and what options we have. The front desk staff are helpful with making schedule adjustments since the website isn't as easy to navigate; you have to actively commit to canceling a class before you can reschedule. Overall, great school for kids wanting to get introduced to playing musical instruments.
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sherwin carballo profile picture
sherwin carballo
September 24, 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
PMA has been excellent for my 5 year old who is taking drum lessons. Its a very professional, yet relaxed and friendly environment. The front of house is very organized and friendly as well. Gibb is our son's instructor and he has been so good at working with a 5 year old. He makes the lessons kid friendly and interesting, and knows how to keep his attention which can be hard with such a young child. I would highly recommend.
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Josh Lee profile picture
Josh Lee
August 10, 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My son has had drum lessons with Mr Lucas. The school is easy to work with. My son has enjoyed his lessons and looks forward to his lesson after each session.
Posted on Google Google
Kristen Hansen Brakeman profile picture
Kristen Hansen Brakeman
July 9, 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Great music school and teachers. I'm an adult taking lessons for the first time and feel very comfortable doing so. The recitals are well done and they focus on making the students feel at ease.

Why Choose Pasadena Music Academy?

Teachers Who Inspire Growth

Our school is built on a team of professional musicians who are equally dedicated to teaching and music. Each lesson is designed to meet the student where they are in life and nurture their passion for music. With instruction available in piano, guitar, drums, voice, strings, winds, and music production, we offer a comprehensive range of opportunities under one roof.

A Rewarding Path to Progress

Music lessons become even more exciting when progress is recognized. Our optional Level Up program gives students clear goals to work toward and celebrates each milestone with stickers, certificates, and wristbands. This structure keeps practice fun and maintains high motivation.

Flexibility for Busy Families

We understand schedules change, which is why we offer unlimited make-up lessons. Reschedule easily online or contact our staff for help–we ensure that no student ever misses out on learning.

Annual Student Showcase Events

At Pasadena Music Academy, we host two recital opportunities each year, typically at the magnificent Boston Court Pasadena venue. These performances serve as motivational goals for students, providing a stage to showcase their musical achievements to loved ones.

A Welcoming Environment

Our school is designed with families in mind. Parents can enjoy free Wi-Fi, coffee, tea, water, magazines, coloring books, charging stations, and even a massage pillow while they wait. Parking is always free and conveniently located right in front of our building.

Support You Can Count On 7 Days a Week

Our friendly office team is available seven days a week to answer questions, help with scheduling, and ensure everything runs smoothly for your family.

Flexible Month-to-Month Enrollment

We believe in flexibility. All lessons are billed on a month-to-month basis, allowing families to continue at their own pace without any commitment.

A Community Favorite Since 2011

Hundreds of Pasadena families have trusted us with their music education for over a decade. Our reputation for excellent teaching and service is reflected in the reviews we proudly hold on Google and Yelp.

Safety First, Always

We prioritize student safety through comprehensive background checks for all teachers and staff, the installation of security cameras in every classroom, observation windows, and an open-door policy that welcomes parents to observe at any time.

An Annual Photo Day Tradition

Each year, we host a complimentary picture day with a professional photographer. Students love the chance to pose with their instruments and capture their musical journey in a fun, no-pressure environment. Adults are welcome too!

ABOUT US