The Pascale Method® is an innovative and systematic approach to teaching the violin from the beginning, to children as young as 3½. Through a series of clearly structured, progressive and fun activities, students learn to play the violin with good form, relaxed disposition, beautiful tone, and a basic knowledge of theory and music in general. This is accomplished in a relatively short period of time.

The Pascale Method differs from the Suzuki Method in many ways. With the Pascale Method,

• Students can learn to play the violin in 14-weeks.
• Children learn to read notes from the beginnning.
• Students learn difficult techniques and concepts quickly and easily.
• The approach is natural and individualistic. We understand that each child is unique.
• There is a high success rate. At the conclusion of our 14-week KinderViolin® class, for example, 99% of students continue their stringed instrument studies.

The first step in the Pascale Method is the group KinderPiano ® class. From there, we offer a progressive series of classes and ensembles.

START THEM YOUNG
KinderPiano®

• Recommended age: 3.5 years minimum.
• Children learn listening, note values, rhythm, basic note reading, cooperation and good practice habits.
• Must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Taught as a class, or in private lessons.

WHEN THEY ARE READY
KinderViolin®

• KinderPiano® class, or the equivalent, is a prerequisite for KinderViolin®. Teacher assesses readiness.
• Recommended age: 4 1/2 - 7 year olds.
• 14-week session.
• Student must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Bass, viola and cello are introduced at the conclusion of the session

PEER SUPPORT AND TEAMWORK IS FUN AND ACCELERATES LEARNING
Training Orchestra

• Graduates of the KinderViolin® class enter the Training Orchestra.
• Student must be able to play a scale and hold instrument correctly.
• Students learn how to play in a group, follow the conductor, rhythms, tempos etc.
• 14-week session concludes with a joint performance with the Children’s Orchestra

Children’s Orchestra

• By audition only. (Prerequisite: Must be enrolled in private lessons with the South Pasadena Strings Program, and have taken Training Orchestra class)
• Seating auditions are required to determine placement in the orchestra.
• The repertoire for this orchestra includes middle and high school-level compositions.
• Performances: 2 neighborhood concerts, 1 competition, and more.

ONE-ON-ONE INSTRUCTION IS KEY, AND REQUIRED
Private Lessons

• “Pascale Certified” teachers follow curriculum for beginner through Intermediate levels.
• The first eighteen months of instruction cover:
• Basic scales (covering major keys)
• Left hand techniques (including “Daily Finger” exercises, trills, double stops, and more)
• Performance pieces
• Third position
• 3 Octave Scales/Arpeggios
• Vibrato
• Orchestra Music
• Minimum 2 recitals required per year. (Must be accompanied and memorized)

Chamber Music (optional)
Some children form quartets with children the same age and playing ability starting at 5-years-old. “KinderQuartet”, “BFF Quartet”, etc.