French Conservatory of Music

If you want top level musical training, look no further. As a producer and musician, the knowledge and experience I have gained through the French Conservatory has been invaluable. I have broken through a fair share of obstacles in my musical journey by the lessons I have received and I couldn’t be more grateful. Whether you want lessons for yours kids, a family member or yourself, I highly recommend the French Conservatory for serious students of music.

This is a long overdue review. I would recommand French Conservatory of Music to anyone looking for a rigorous level of learning that meets French standards. I got my end of study diploma there a few years ago and it was one of the best decisions. Skander runs the conservatory, he is also an excellent detail oriented teacher and consistantly checks on teachers and students.

I am a graduate student at UCLA and have been taking voice and piano lessons with Laure and John respectively for almost 4 years now and it has been an incredible journey of constant improvement and working hard to achieve my goals! My teachers are constantly pushing and challenging me to do better and practice more efficiently to achieve my desired sound. They are able to pinpoint exactly the exercises I need to work on my musicality, articulation, voice production, and even memorization skills. Learning music here helped me at UCLA as well in just being able to memorize scientific terms and concepts I needed to know for my exams. The owner of this conservatory, Skander, and his wife Alevtyna have been nothing but warm and accommodating to all of the new and continuing students. They have worked around my and their students' schedules so beautifully to ensure that we are receiving quality instruction. The teachers and staff here are very kind and will tailor lessons to whatever teaching style is best for the individual student's learning. The growth that I have seen in myself and in the other students in the last 4 years of recitals that I have attended and participated in is tremendous. When I started 4 years ago, I lacked self confidence in my voice and couldn't project well, leading to a low stage presence; however, after the last 4 years, I can see a marked difference in my posture, confidence, and voice. Many young students finish their first year having made so much tangible progress in whatever instrument they are learning and you get to be a part of that story as well. Watching the other students improve is both motivating and captivating as you can see the improvement in others and realize the progress you yourself have made as well. It isn't just a music school that you will find here, but also a family. The other students' parents are so warm to each other in acknowledging everyone's growth and the teachers genuinely care about both your emotional health and musical growth. Skander hasn't just built a music school, but a community for students and parents to watch growth in real time and to encourage and support one another. I can honestly say that this is the best find and decision I have ever made for the last 4 years of my life...and I will continue making the decision to attend this conservatory as long as I am in Los Angeles. Definitely call to book a trial lesson!

If you're looking for outstanding, compassionate, and highly experienced teachers, you won't be disappointed. My daughter looks forward to her lessons every week and always leaves motivated & inspired. I can say without reservation that she's truly receiving an education in music.

I have been looking for a place near UCLA where I could take music lessons for at least a year and I checked out a couple of places (some of which I thought were okay when doing an Internet search, but I was disappointed with when I went in person to check the place out). With this conseratory, I was a little skeptical since it was new, but I called the number provided and the owner of the school answered all my questions and we set up a date for me to come in and check the place out and to have a trial lesson! Not only that, but the day we had set up to meet, I got into a car accident and was a little frazzled. They are flexible in their scheduling and I was able to postpone the trial lesson to the following week! The day of the trial lesson, I found the place (it's kind of hidden). I walked up the stairs and at the top of the staircase the owner of the conservatory Skander was waiting to greet me. He showed me around the conservatory, explaining how the rooms were designed so that in the music rooms you can barely hear the piano playing in the other room, but outside in the waiting room parents can hear their children's progress. At the time, I was taking violin and singing lessons, but now I'm doing piano and singing (also with music theory). The teachers are all wonderful, truly dedicated to teaching the students, and wonderfully talented! When I first started piano lessons, the piano teacher John specifically chose a piece for me to play, saying "I think you'll really like this piece". Everyone who works here has such a strong music background that it inspires you to play and explore yourself to reach greater achievements. As a side note, the song arrangements they make in their free time are just truly remarkable! Everytime I (or anyone else) go in for a lesson, Skander always kindly offers tea, coffee, or some drink as you wait. The level of professionalism, cordiality, and politness is something I've never experienced before. They're really good at what they do. The atmosphere is very comfortable and I honestly love coming here for lessons or sometimes just to chill and see if I can see some amazing music happening! This place is honestly the best and seriously dedicated to properly training musicians! This place is definitely worth checking out!

The teachers and the curriculum at the conservatory are fantastic! Weekly piano and composition lessons here are the highlight of my son's week.

That teacher ruined your perfect school. So so sad :(

Hay

My experience has been amazing at this school. Every teacher is passionate and very understanding, but at the same time they push students to develop. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a prestigious institution, it's something truly extraordinary.

During my daughter's first lesson, the owner and the piano teacher both repeatedly called my daughter by the wrong name even though we had spent nearly two hours in person with them during an assessment the week prior. During the first online lesson, the owner took out his anger on my daughter via a FaceTime rant, yelling at her, telling her that "your mom is rude" and saying that this relationship was not going to work out. My daughter was scared. He verbally assaulted her, and when I confronted him about it in a phone conversation, he said that he speaks to everyone that way. I don't even speak to my child in the hostile way that he did. This man is scary, rude, and abusuve. He told me that we are "not his type of clientele," which, at this point, is a good thing because his "type" must be okay with verbally assaulting children. Update based on the owner's defensive harangue: I've been a public school educator for almost 30 years, so I know what good teaching looks like. I also know what positive relationships look like. He can spin this and insult me all day long, but it doesn't change the fact that he unnecessarily lashed out at my child and scared her so much that she couldn't even focus on the rest of the lesson. If he were teaching in public education, he would have been fired.

My daughter is 14 and started playing piano with the French conservatory of music of Los Angeles over 7 years ago. She had taken lessons for three years before that at her school and at another music school. The head of conservatory and also the lead teacher Skander Ladjimi made her start from the beginning to ensure she would get the right technic and to correct bad habits she had taken. She quickly caught up, really improved, and has continued to develop her skills over the years. The teachers at the conservatory are all professional musicians and are very also dedicated to teaching music. They understand children development and know what to teach when. While there is no pressure on the children, there is an expectation of practice. Milestones have to be reached: passing the annual exam to get to the next level is one of them and participation in the recitals is another. These milestones are not required but they are encouraged. The exam is based on the Paris French Conservatory of music curriculum. As I understand it, the leaders of that institution decide which pieces have to be presented each year in order to get to the next level. So, all children of the same level go through the same pieces together. The exam ceremony is quite formal and happens at a nice venue around Beverly Hills. The jury is composed of professions who fly in from Paris for the events and of American university professors of music. Children are nervous and also very pride of presenting their pieces. At the end of the exam, the jury members respectfully and kindly explain their grade to each child in front of the audience. They are very honest about what they appreciated and what can be improved. This is the candid feedback French people are not afraid to give. It is impressive and over the years it has made all these children strong and mature. I am impressed at how well my daughter has been able to take the feedback. Lessons can be taken at the conservatory or online. My daughter has taken her lessons in person except during the lock down. Online lessons are very efficient and help keep children focused on the learning process. My daughter really enjoys the one-on-one teaching, encouragement, and support but I am told also tends to be more focused online. My daughter has been enthusiastic about piano but also had moments as she became a teenager when she was losing motivation. Her main teacher (Skander Ladjimi) has managed to keep her interested and to bring her motivation back. I have been amazed every time to see that she was finding the energy again. I am incredibly grateful for the tailored efforts and one on one dedication she has benefited. I think that thanks to Skander and the other teachers, many children have managed to overcome that difficult phase when many typically give up and then regret it years later. Skander encourages that his students are exposed to more than one teacher at the conservatory as each of them might stress something different in general or in particular piece. As a parent I have also really appreciated that the teachers provide detailed feedback after each lesson. You are informed of the work, the homework expectations and in general of the progress. I have not received such attention from any other teachers of coaches except at the French Conservatory and the French Lycee. The French Conservatory teachers willingly share progress with parents when they are interested. This is not a common practice in Los Angeles in clubs of extracurricular activities in my experience where parents are not part of the equations. The French Conservatory teachers manage to develop strong bonds with the students and have also managed to create bonds among the students and among the parents. To practice for the recitals, the teachers group the students in one of the rooms and make them listen to each other play and encourage each other. I would like to add that the parent waiting room is comfortable and generally quiet. Parents quietly chat or work on their computers. It is also important to know that many of the teachers can teach either in French or in English and the environment is very international and respectful of diverse cultures and backgrounds. Many of the children are bilingual, not only French. Other European families from Russia, China and other geographies and off course Americans have brought their children to the conservatory because they appreciate the classic teaching of classical music in a formal and also family friendly environment.

I'm an adult learner and have been studying at the FCM for 5 years now. It has been a wonderful and transformative experience and the best thing about the teachers is it doesn't matter your age or experience, they will do everything they can to elevate your skills to the highest level possible. Very supportive and welcoming community and specifically recommended for adult learners like myself who found a love of music later in life.

Amazing music school for kids and adults. We've been all students there for 4,5 years already - 2 kids and I. Very professional staff, personal approach, recitals and concerts are really fabulous events for the whole family. Highly recommend

Discover the French Conservatory of Music that just opened in Beverly Hills! Private lesson in Violin, Piano, Violoncello, Guitare, Clarinet, Voice, Music theory, Music production..., or even sing in the Conservatory's choir ! The lesson are in English and/or French and is partner with the Conservatoire International de musique de Paris founded by Maurice Ravel in 1925! The teaching methodology is similar to the one taught in France, emphasizing on the acquisition of skills and techniques necessary to reach full freedom of (artistic) expression. Website: http://www.frenchconservatoryofmusic.com/ Choir: http://www.frenchconservatoryofmusic.com/the-conservatory-choirs.html Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frenchconservatory Discover the Conservatory through this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HvMcFlp6JxI

I am a graduate student at UCLA and have been taking voice and piano lessons with Laure and John respectively for almost 4 years now and it has been an incredible journey of constant improvement and working hard to achieve my goals! My teachers are constantly pushing and challenging me to do better and practice more efficiently to achieve my desired sound. They are able to pinpoint exactly the exercises I need to work on my musicality, articulation, voice production, and even memorization skills. Learning music here helped me at UCLA as well in just being able to memorize scientific terms and concepts I needed to know for my exams. The owner of this conservatory, Skander, and his wife Alevtyna have been nothing but warm and accommodating to all of the new and continuing students. They have worked around my and their students' schedules so beautifully to ensure that we are receiving quality instruction. The teachers and staff here are very kind and will tailor lessons to whatever teaching style is best for the individual student's learning. The growth that I have seen in myself and in the other students in the last 4 years of recitals that I have attended and participated in is tremendous. When I started 4 years ago, I lacked self confidence in my voice and couldn't project well, leading to a low stage presence; however, after the last 4 years, I can see a marked difference in my posture, confidence, and voice. Many young students finish their first year having made so much tangible progress in whatever instrument they are learning and you get to be a part of that story as well. Watching the other students improve is both motivating and captivating as you can see the improvement in others and realize the progress you yourself have made as well. It isn't just a music school that you will find here, but also a family. The other students' parents are so warm to each other in acknowledging everyone's growth and the teachers genuinely care about both your emotional health and musical growth. Skander hasn't just built a music school, but a community for students and parents to watch growth in real time and to encourage and support one another. I can honestly say that this is the best find and decision I have ever made for the last 4 years of my life...and I will continue making the decision to attend this conservatory as long as I am in Los Angeles. Definitely call to book a trial lesson!

I cannot say enough good things about the French Conservatory - and am truly remiss for not having posted a review sooner. My 11-year-old​ son has been attending the conservatory for the last year and a half and has grown so much as a musician. He attended another conservatory prior and was stuck in a bit of a rut. We were lucky to have stumbled on the FC after an appointment nearby. We popped in unannounced and the Director, Skander Ladjimi, was so welcoming and supportive. We weren't exactly sure of what our son needed, but we knew he wasn't improving after a year at the other conservatory. Skander hooked us up with Hannah Ureste, an amazing trumpet player, and teacher. When I tell you my son's grown - it's been exponential. He went from a kid who played trumpet to a budding musician. Hannah's been an absolute godsend. A few months ago our son started taking music theory with John Jihanyan and that has been an amazing experience for him. It's all coming together, and we have Skander and the teachers at the French Conservatory to thank. What I think is so special about the conservatory is the family feel you get. Skander's wife makes amazing baked goods​ and is just extremely thoughtful. It's a pleasure to be in such a kind, supportive community. One of the things I also think is special about the conservatory is the yearly exam the students take. Judges come from the FC in Paris, and their commentary is extremely helpful for the students. We intend to continue at the French Conservatory​ and hope that our son continues to advance, ultimately receiving his Diploma of Musical Studies.

This school has been wonderful to my son. It's been two years and he has blossomed as a musician , as well as a person. I particularly recommend Anne Lise for her warmth and rigor; Skander for his professionalism and expertise; and John for his talent catering to the needs of young musicians. The price is great for the value.

I have always loved piano music and wished I had taken lessons at a child but... instead I played soccer. By chance I met the owner, Skander, and told him I was interested but as a self-supporting adult with a kickin' social life did not have the time to fulfill this acoustic dream. He suggested I take Music Theory lessons once a week so I could ascertain if the more tedious part of playing an instrument interested me. (Music Theory classes are for reading music and composing, in case you did not know. As I did not know at the time). I have been taking theory for about 3 months with John and I really love it. He's able to explain the material in a way which makes perfect sense and helps me remember each lesson. As an adult, I worried I would be slow or have difficulty but John is extremely patient and has made class a breeze. I just started piano lessons and am flying along. I seriously can't believe I am catching on so quickly. I find myself saying all the time, "I can't believe I just played that!" YES!!! A large part of my success has to do with how strict and professional this school is. I think a lot of the random music teachers out there do not have the right training to really teach you to properly play an instrument like the French Conservatory does. If you are thinking about learning an instrument, I would definitely check this school out first. Even if... ahem... you are a slow adult like I am. ;)

It took me some times to write this review because I am not used to share on Yelp the way I feel or what I think about a place but I felt I have to share my great experience with the French Conservatory Of Music. Last year, I was working on a film and had to play a famous music teacher. I have been very lucky to find this place and even more to meet with Skander Ladjimi. Skander and John Jihanyan helped me tremendously for the role and taught me with a lot of patience how to write the solfege. They helped me to be confident with the role. I spent sometimes at the Conservatory and was amazed by the serious, the patience and the passion that Skander was putting into the Conservatory: the organization, the children, all the people he had to deal with and always being very professional and nice. After all his hard work, I am not surprised to see the progress of the children in their craft. Skander has chosen all the teachers with a lot of care to make this place to become the Best you can find. The Conservatory is growing more and more with success. Thank you to Skander and his team, well deserved! I love this Conservatory and I will always recommend it. A bientot!

I took lessons at the conservatory for 4 years and started with basic music theory, violin lessons, audio production, and then composition. All I can say is that the people at the conservatory are really at the top of their game. They have prepared me for many music exams and a university audition which I'll be attending this fall. They teach skills that truly help a motivated student pursue a career in music. All the teachers, especially Skander, have so much knowledge and experience to share with their students it was honestly a privilege to learn under them. They are very good with kids and it definitely has a type of family-oriented vibe that really makes you feel at home and comfortable. I'm grateful to have found them and I highly recommend them for any level student!

I have been looking for a place near UCLA where I could take music lessons for at least a year and I checked out a couple of places (some of which I thought were okay when doing an Internet search, but I was disappointed with when I went in person to check the place out). With this conseratory, I was a little skeptical since it was new, but I called the number provided and the owner of the school answered all my questions and we set up a date for me to come in and check the place out and to have a trial lesson! Not only that, but the day we had set up to meet, I got into a car accident and was a little frazzled. They are flexible in their scheduling and I was able to postpone the trial lesson to the following week! The day of the trial lesson, I found the place (it's kind of hidden). I walked up the stairs and at the top of the staircase the owner of the conservatory Skander was waiting to greet me. He showed me around the conservatory, explaining how the rooms were designed so that in the music rooms you can barely hear the piano playing in the other room, but outside in the waiting room parents can hear their children's progress. At the time, I was taking violin and singing lessons, but now I'm doing piano and singing (also with music theory). The teachers are all wonderful, truly dedicated to teaching the students, and wonderfully talented! When I first started piano lessons, the piano teacher John specifically chose a piece for me to play, saying "I think you'll really like this piece". Everyone who works here has such a strong music background that it inspires you to play and explore yourself to reach greater achievements. As a side note, the song arrangements they make in their free time are just truly remarkable! Everytime I (or anyone else) go in for a lesson, Skander always kindly offers tea, coffee, or some drink as you wait. The level of professionalism, cordiality, and politness is something I've never experienced before. They're really good at what they do. The atmosphere is very comfortable and I honestly love coming here for lessons or sometimes just to chill and see if I can see some amazing music happening! This place is honestly the best and seriously dedicated to properly training musicians! This place is defintiely worth checking out!

I just wanted to respond to the most recent post from the gentleman, Ali, and the older post from the lady named Samira. I am sorry that they had the misfortune of having such a bad experience. I posted a review back in 2016 and, had a different experience which you can read. Today, I still feel the same. As with anything, there are plenty of great places to get training and, you have to find what best fits for you or your child. What works for one person does not necessarily work for someone else. That being said, it should not take away from the fact that The French Conservatory of Music has worked for a lot of people. As you can see from most of the reviews, students have actually taken the time to express how wonderful the program truly is for them and, I find there are enough good reviews to weigh out the bad reviews. In addition, I have seen the growth in all the students that are attending here. If you are considering the French Conservatory of Music, take the time to make that decision for yourself. I always give something a try before I judge it based on what a few people's experiences are. As the saying goes, "Don't knock it, 'til you try it!" Skander has been nothing but gracious and humble. I give him credit for sticking with it and growing this Conservatory from the ground up. I remember when there were not that many students and, I too, did wonder if this was something that was a waste of our time. Funny how time passes us by and, here we still are today. His Conservatory has grown tremendously and is continuing to grow. His success is from all his hard work and dedication and, it is finally starting to pay off. He deserves to reap the riches of his labor. I am very happy for him, as well as for us. My son is happy here and, you cannot put a price on happiness! I must say, I do not feel he is all about the money! I am going through a very tough time right now and, Skander and my son's music theory teacher, John, have been more than generous to assist us and support us until we can get through this trying time in our lives. They are not throwing us out because of a bump in the road. They want my son to keep growing. I hope to pass it on. Communication is the name of the game. I think sometimes we forget how to do that, so that we can avoid circumstances such as Ali and Samira had to go through. I have never had a communication problem with Skander and, illnesses have always been worked out. He has been accommodating when he can and, when he is unable to do so, he always tries to do the best he can. Life is not perfect but, the fact that he tries, says something about his character. I have always been the type of person to communicate and it truly affects the type of relationship you have with someone. Also, I believe respect is the key to everything and without that you have nothing. Skander has our respect and we have his. I wish nothing but the best for Ali and Samira and, I hope they both find their perfect fit!

So happy to have found the Conservatory- excellent instruction on both technical skills and musicality. Skander and John (I take lessons with both) genuinely care about the student's success and enjoyment. As a working professional, I also appreciate their flexibility. Would recommend to beginners or adults like myself returning to the instrument after many years of not playing.

The French Conservatory is definitely by far the best school for musicians in Los Angeles. I have been looking for a serious school with proper musical instruction. This school is second to none! I'm so glad I found this place.

I started at the French Conservatory of Music in December to improve my Piano and Theory skills and pass an exam at the end of the academic year. First this conservatory seduced me because it is linked to the International Conservatory of Music of Paris and their high standards. Therefore you'll get a diploma of international conservatory level if you pass. The conservatory is in a good location, it is clean and welcoming. The owner is reactive and seems to really care about my progress, plus he is a concert pianist himself. My piano teacher is good, she is able to tell me everything I do wrong in a blink of an eye and how to improve it. In about two months I believe I did a lot of progress if compared to these years as an autodidact. The music theory teacher invests himself a lot. He is calm and patient, times goes fast during the lessons and he always makes sure everyone follows. He really cares. I'm friend again with theory now. The teachers in this conservatory are real pros who know what they are talking about. I would recommend this place to anyone being serious about music and expecting a superior level of performance.

Impressive music education being offered by its Director and staff who focus on not only the importance of creativity but the technical necessities to enter higher level music education facilities. As a professional artist, educator and Mother I highly recommend visiting the conservatory and seeing if this is a good fit for your child's music education. Los Angeles is very fortunate to have this facility in the central part of Beverly Hills. Bravo!

Skander and his team are highly professional and passionate about musical excellence. Considering the school's affiliation with its Paris namesake; formal exams; biannual recitals; fair policies; and the care and commitment of its teachers - it represents a superb value. My 8 year old daughter performs with greater nuance, technical mastery and joy each week (more than justifying the drive from Santa Monica)!

Wonderful teachers! I had been looking for months for the best options suitable to my 6 y.o. Having studied piano back home for years (in Paris), I was very picky and the French Conservatory of Music was the right fit. I knew it before I even visited the place. I enrolled my daughter who adores her piano teacher (Anne Lise) and even after a long school day, can't wait to get there. She's been so inspired that she started to write her own "Symphony" lol! I'm so glad I met Mr. Skander Ladjimi, the director, who has a wonderful vision to shake up the Music schoolplace in Los Angeles. When I go there, I feel like this is the Julliard of the West Coast! Definitely recommand Cynthia Wiley

I had heard great things about the Conservatory from a good friend, and as always was on guard about anything till I experience it myself. I was invited to an event at the Conservatory, and was more then impressed but amazed. Everyone was so amazingly kind, extremely talented, and beyond professional. I also can't speak enough about the amazing knowledge and love that the teachers have for their craft. This is such a great place to learn, and to be associated with plus the conservatory's love for music is truly infectious and wonderful.

In my family its a tradition and culture to play at least one instrument. I brought my sister to French Conservatory about 4 months ago, she loved it right away, which is very weird for 7 years old child, i remember i was rebellious at first when my parents told me I have to do music. She loves the atmosphere and her instructor. I also see a lot of improvements each week. Would highly recommend this conservatory!!!

Stay away!!!! Save your time and Money!!! I enrolled my 2 children into the French Conservatory for Piano Lessons. They started taking home lessons with one of the teacher from the conservatory. It's with dismay I had to remove them from the conservatory due to the racists and negative attitude I received from Skander the CEO. I had requested a different time slot due to other school activities, he then removed me from the Friday slot and gave it to another student and then told me that there are no other slots available. He then would refuse to call me, because of the selfish and unprofessional mistake that he made. Finally, once I got a hold of him, he yelled, disrespected me(a female) with rude remarks and then hung up the phone like a 5 year old child!! Skander is extremely unprofessional, and fake. He pretends to have good etiquette in front of people but once he gets you locked in to the program and feels comfortable enough, he shows his real self. Skander is nothing but a oversized unprofessional bully. I have lost all respect for the conservatory for having chosen such an unprofessional individual like Skander to run the place. The conservatory lost 2 of their young dedicated students whom have been there for almost a year, because of such unprofessionalism from Skander Ladjimi!! Just a warning, not to be fooled by his initial mannerism, he is nothing but a fake underneath it all!!!

Wolves! Going here to learn how to play an instrument or get a sense of classical music is the same as going to McDonald's to have a great burger experience. I suggest private tutors at UCLA Music School instead of this place. Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, this "school" aims to collect money before anything else. After attending many classes, your teacher can charge you the full amount when you get sick and forget to let them know. Art is not about money. Artists don't care about money in the first place. It's really sad to see how lots of people buy into the "french" image of this place and send their kids or go here themselves.

Great teachers who are dedicated to educating students on the classical style of playing their instrument of choice. I have taken saxophone lessons here after not playing for years, and I rapidly improved with the help of their teacher. I highly recommend this conservatory to anyone who is serious about learning an instrument (or singing!) or improving their skills.

I took piano lessons here with Jennifer. I really enjoyed my experience as the owner Skander is very hospitable (he always offered me refreshments upon my arrival and snacks as well if there were any) and because Jennifer is very knowledgeable and skilled at the piano. When I would arrive early for my lessons, they would let me practice on one of their pianos if it was available. I also really like how they have a degree program and recitals every year that you can work towards. Despite their curriculum, they are very flexible in terms of the student's goals and what he/she wants to play. They don't have parking, but it worked out for me because the meters were free after 6pm. There is also free residential parking a couple or so blocks away. The only downside is that they accept cash or check only.

Brilliant instructors, fantastic atmosphere. If you're interested in learning music theory, composition, or an instrument, I cannot recommend another conservatory higher! Contact Skander for more info - he's amazing.

This is a LONG OVERDUE yelp review! I took classes here awhile back and I have to say that I was so impressed with the professionalism and caliber of knowledge that I received as a Piano /music theory student. I was coming in completely new to piano and theory and my instructor John was so incredibly patient with me. He made it simple to understand the piano and how to read music. Not only did they welcome me with open arms, they also let me audit any class that interested me. I really liked that they were able to cater to my goals. basically just tell Skander what you want to accomplish and he'll put together a type of class schedule for you. Skander, along with his staff are so incredibly talented! I honestly never thought I would be able to learn how to play from a classical perspective and actually understand the process. Especially well into my 20's and with zero experience. John is seriously a talented guy and a wonderful teacher/ roller hockey champion. This is a very clean, relaxing & nurturing environment. The ability to collaborate with other students allows you to grow in your craft and brand. Instructors range from piano to cello to voice to violin to music production, etc. They even prepare you for exams in order to receive certification from the actual conservatory. And they have concerts for you partake in :) I was only here for a few weeks but I absolutely loved my experience here and hope to come back soon! Parking was never an issue for me around 6pm+. If there isn't a spot right in front there are more spots across the street behind the hotel. Overall love this place and the occasionally baked treats are so thoughtful and delicious provided by Skander's lovely wife. The French Conservatory of Music is definitely worth checking out. Partake in an audit to see what I'm talking about. :) Thanks!

I have been attending the French Conservatory Of Music for around 7 months and it has changed my life immensely. I've always loved music, but when it came to reading and playing instruments, I lacked the ability to read notes and have proper technique. The space is somewhat hidden which I like, and inside it's beautiful. You have instruments that perform amazingly and all the teachers there are kind. If you truly love music and want to acquire the tools one needs to play well, this conservatory will get you there in no time. Of course hard work, determination, and patience is needed, as with any creative endeavor, but you will SEE RESULTS! AND FAST! Skander is an incredible teacher- he will shape you into a pianist and help you open your eyes for details you may haven't noticed before. If you want to be able to play the piano, take lessons with him!Thanks to him I can play a full piece now, and more to come! His wife is also very sweet, and bakes goods that she leaves out for everyone to enjoy. John, who teaches theory, is very kind and patient, especially good with younger kids. He helped me truly understand how to read music, after my years of failed attempts of desperate googling and even being in an orchestra program. Laure has a beautiful voice and will help you feel comfortable singing in no time. You learn how to breathe properly and at the same time find your style, which can be a hard thing to do. I breathe and live for music, and I feel lucky and thankful beyond words that a place like this exists. Whether you're a beginner or a musician going at it for some time now, I really recommend The French Conservatory Of Music. Thank you so much to Skander and all the teachers who have created such an incredible space and made my dreams into true manifestations.

My lessons at The French Conservatory of Music were nothing short of fantastic. I was fortunate enough to receive instruction from Skander and John, both of whom are extremely talented and knowledgeable. I have always been very interested in playing the piano and learning about music, but I have struggled with it in the past. Skander taught me music theory. I was able to understand/grasp concepts that I have struggled with before, for the first time. He broke down the ideas and presented them in a way that makes you think you've known it all along but really it's Skander's amazing way of teaching the information. Although John also taught me some theory my lessons with him were more focused on learning the piece I was playing. Being taught by John made it seem as though learning the piece happened on it's own, and really this is due to his astute teaching style. He is very attentive to how you're playing and sees what's holding you back from advancing on a piece, even when you're not able to see what's holding you back, in this way he makes learning easy and enjoyable. Both Skadner and John were very professional and friendly. I highly recommend instruction from either of these two as they have been wonderful in helping me advance my passion and aptitude for music!

My two children wanted to take instrument lessons, so I looked around for quality instructors and found the French Conservatory of Music through Yelp. When I spoke to Skander, the CEO of the Conservatory, I was so impressed with the seriousness of the curriculum, the high caliber of the instructors, and the Conservatory's philosophy and approach to teaching, that not only did I enroll my children, I also started taking lessons myself. The results have been excellent. In addition to instrumental lessons, my children are enrolled in a weekly "choir initiation" class in which they learn French folk songs, music theory, singing and ear training. They love the class and they've been learning to sing in tune, and they've developed their musicality and technique without even realizing they are learning; it's just a fun activity to them. The choir initiation class has had a big effect on their musicianship in general, and helped them with their instrument lessons, which are also top-notch. In the last two months, their musicianship has just soared. And my music composition class has been superb -- I'm learning classical theory (I'd had a bit before but hadn't studied it vigorously) and get amazing guidance on composing my own pieces. What makes the Conservatory's approach so valuable is that (1) each of the teachers has a serious background in music and a serious passion for music -- they are world-class performers who have had years of high-level training (once in a while I'll hear some of them preparing for a concert while I'm waiting for my kids to finish their lessons and it's like getting free tickets to the symphony -- they play at the highest levels); and (2) they are all very personable and inspiring, effective at communicating their passion to the students, and highly supportive. It's been a great experience so far, and I'm looking forward to continuing for a long time to come. Definitely recommend.