World Music
PCM’s World Music Department explores diverse musical traditions from around the world, celebrating the universal language of music. Through our ensembles, students explore the rhythmic beats, enchanting melodies, and unique expressions that span various cultural traditions.
Ensemble Offerings
Winter: November 18, 2025 – February 24, 2026
Spring: March 3 – May 26, 2026
Tuesdays 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Instructor: Noel Ayala-Loera
Tuition: $240
Mariachi Pasadena! students learn to play and sing mariachi standards in an ensemble setting. This includes learning songs and instrumental tunes from all over Mexico and Latin America.
Adult and youth ages 12+
Spring: March 7 – May 31, 2026
Adult Ensemble
Sundays: 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Youth Ensemble*
Saturdays: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Instructors: Celia Yu Liu, Susan She, Xiaobo Li
Tuition: $540
This course offers an immersive introduction to Chinese folk music through hands-on study of the pipa, guzheng, or erhu. Students choose one instrument (provided free for the first quarter of instruction) and explore the historical and cultural contexts of regional Chinese musical traditions while developing fundamental performance techniques. Emphasis is placed on listening, imitation, ensemble playing, and expressive interpretation.
No prior experience with Chinese instruments is required. Students have 50 minutes of instrument-specific instruction in a group setting followed by a 60-minute rehearsal combining all three instruments to create a Chinese folk ensemble.
* Youth ensemble is ages 8+.
Winter: November 22, 2025 – February 28, 2026
Spring: March 7 – May 30, 2026
Saturdays: 10:00 – 11:30 am
Instructor: Natalie Brejcha
Tuition: $504
Come make music with your peers in a relaxed but lively setting where everyone – from the beginner to the seasoned expert – can participate at their level of ability and comfort. Together students discover and play folk music from around the world starting with American Roots Music (Fiddle tunes, Bluegrass, Country, and Blues).
The ensemble is open to all instruments—but particularly chorded instruments like acoustic guitar, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, and solo instruments like violin, viola, and cell.
Instructor: Yuri Inoo
Tuition: $112
Percussion instructor Yuri Inoo leads children and adults in fun and inspiring drum activities suitable for all ages. No prior experience necessary.
Ages 6+ with an accompanying adult are invited to enroll.
Visit the Fees page for more information about tuition and registration fees.