Chamber Music Program

Why Chamber Music?

We all know the benefits of studying a musical instrument with a private teacher. We've seen that participation in an orchestra develops children’s discipline, listening, camaraderie, and more.

At the Strings Program, we have also learned that studying in small chamber group or string quartets, with a qualified coach, furthers children's development in a most profound way.

From Tots to Teens

Two of the most unique aspects of the Strings Program overall, and of our Chamber Music Program in particular, are the young age of our players, and their high level of performance. As an example, our youngest chamber music group began at age 5, as the ‘KinderQuartet.’ These four girls renamed themselves the ‘BFF Quartet’ (for ‘best friends forever’), when they turned 8 years old. Their public debut was at a local farmer’s market, and they went on to perform throughout Los Angeles County at many venues, including a local senior center, and an event sponsored by our U.S. congressional representative. By now, they are veteran players.

We also have teen quartets of advanced players. We are proud that these groups have performed at many different types of events, including paying gigs!

Strings Program Director, Susan Pascale, attributes the success of the chamber music groups to the fact that each student learns to be responsible to the group, to play accurately, with good intonation and a full sound. “The musicality of the performance grows out of the relationship that each player has to others,” says Pascale.

“We've seen and heard some remarkable results from our groups,” she adds. “If you close your eyes, you would never imagine the players were 7, 8, and 9 years olds.”

Who is eligible for the Chamber Music Program?

All South Pasadena Strings Program students, including piano students, are eligible by audition or teacher recommendation to participate in our Chamber Music Program. Students may enter the program as a group, or asked to be placed with other players at their level.