My oldest daughter and I both take lessons here. She has taken bass lessons here for 2 years and plays in two bands at the school. The bass teacher, Bret, is fantastic. He also teaches one of her band classes. They play awesome songs and my daughter is rockin'! I take drum lessons from Ulf and Ray. I have been self-taught as a drummer for a few years and they are helping me break a lot of bad habits and working on a lot of theory with me. It's fantastic. Everyone is kind and super talented - and so easy to work with. I will continue here for years to come. read more

Our kids love going here! We've been going for about a year now and take guitar and piano classes. The teachers are so fun and amazing! My kids unlike traditional piano classes, get to choose the fun songs to play and are actually engaged. My kid for the first time ever sat down at the piano by himself and started practicing. Spencer is a great manager, very responsive and willing to help. They also launched a great app to make rescheduling easy. We can't wait for the band! read more

Vocal lessons: Inga Bought a Daily Deal for 4 lessons POLICY: I do like the policy here where you need to cancel 24 hrs before - got that. I also like that they call you if you can do earlier. I had an issue that when I first started classes, I wasn't given a confirmation. I had to call and email several times to get a confirmation. They were good after the initial tho. ROOM: They say the room is soundproof, but it really wasn't. I heard the girl in the room singing and it made me SO uncomfortable because that means THEY CAN HEAR ME. And being kinda shy about myself, I did not like that. I knew people could hear me too. Yes... they can hear you. VOCAL COACH: Inga was great. VERY professional. She's also very talented. I like to research my teachers beforehand and she was on Idol for her country (Latvia) and has an amazing voice and she's gorgeous. So I knew she could help me. I gave her my song choices (which you need to email them to her a week before cuz she wants to review it) and pulls up the karaoke version. She's good at it. We did vocal warm ups and she helped me with that a lot. She showed me techniques. She's really great at getting the lesson out there in terms of technique. CRITIQUES: Everything was great... UNTIL you had to sing at the end... with a microphone and a speaker... I'm sorry... but if you were shy about your voice... giving a person a microphone to sing in in the beginning stages is SCARY as heck. Esp if they have stage fright. I think they should had started out slowly without the microphone and speakers because you don't want it to go through the wall. The reason people take lessons is to get better and for some to get over their fear and practice better... but to initially give them a mic to sing with speakers... nerve wrecking. PARKING: Many spaces available - private lot OVERALL: It's a nice studio. think if you have experience singing and want better technique and not a problem with stage presence... this won't be a problem for you. read more

My son rocks! And he's just 7. Thank you to Ulf and Modern Music School for bring out his inner rock star! In an unassuming strip mall, in an unassuming storefront, there is a small music school run by a passionate and patient staff. Drum instructor Ulf has, in just three months, gently taught my little man to read music, understand tempo and well,... rock! read more

I have been attending Modern Music School and getting vocal training lessons by Mariela for over a year now. Mariee is great at what she does. She's approachable and balanced in her encouragement. I have seen great results since i started attending her classes. She was able to adapt and teach me whatever i needed to know, regardless of what language or the style i sing in. She has been welcoming to new ideas and helpful with many projects that i took on my own. Besides the professional staff, the school is always clean, looks very "modern" as the name/pictures state. I have met and spoken to many of the other trainers and teachers at the school. They all are nice, respectful and friendly. read more

Most of the students here are children. A child, I am not. But I'm a kid at heart and not above chasing my lifelong dream of being able to carry a tune. I purchased a Groupon for private vocal lessons and was set up with Inga. I've since enrolled at the regular rate and while it is not "cheap" I feel I am definitely getting what I'm paying for: lessons with a competent, patient instructor who is giving me the tools I need to improve my skills at home with practice. Inga and Ulf (pronounced Ool-iff, I think) are both very kind and encouraging. Both my singing and, frankly, my self-esteem are improving weekly with their help. I love it here! :) read more

My son has been at PMA since he was in 1st grade and we're still going strong 4 years later! He has been with his awesome teacher Kathrin the whole time (even though we had switched around a little in the beginning due to scheduling) and she has been such an amazing mentor. Kathrin has made lessons fun and my son looks forward to working on his music! And we love the school so much - they are so flexible with cancellations or moving lessons around. You can tell they care they really go above and beyond to make their students involved, as well as parents, with all the fun events. We have lots of friends who go here as well and they all say the same thing! Yay for Pasadena Music Academy! read more

For all of you looking for a great music school, either for you or your children, look no further. Modern Music School is fantastic! Everyone there is very friendly, professional and most of all caring...They truly care about their students and their overall satisfaction and progress. I take two kids ages 11 and 5 (singing and drums) and they both love it. They can't wait for Wednesdays to come around and look forward to seeing their teachers and "rockin" out.. If you do one thing this summer, make sure it's to give them a call and try out the free sample lesson. You will not be disappointed.... read more

Had a great 1st lesson. Thanks to another reviewer, Nancy T., I prepped myself to be amongst children and that I was. At first I walked into a lobby full of adults and I thought, "oh cool, probably others who bought the same deal as I on LivingSocial" but after just 2 short minutes, I realize they were all parents waiting for their kids. 30 minutes fly when Inga (my vocal instructor) gets you right down to singing! As nervous as I was, she had a no-nonsense aura to her that I knew I better get the butterflies out and do as she said. And glad I did cause she gives really good constructive feedback. I even have homework. And just to be clear, to me, Inga was unassuming, sincere in her desire to help you bring out your inner "Whitney", and quite encouraging! Can't wait for my next lesson. Will update after the end of my lessons. read more

I have been working with Ronja for about 3 sessions now I can honestly say that I couldnt be happier! I have had a few vocal instructors in the past but no one compares to Ronja! She is awesome! Not only as an instructor, but as a person :) I love it here and I'm so happy that I found a place where I'm actually learning, and having fun doing so! Thank you Ulf, and Ronja! :) read more

My son took his first of a package of 4 voice lessons last Monday with Ronja. He has had lessons before and I have never seen him so excited after a class - he learned more in this one lesson than in any of the other classes combined, and he can't wait for the next one! Limited lobby seating, so bringing the whole family is not the best idea. I only saw child students, but I imagine they teach adults as well. The staff was incredibly helpful, accommodating and friendly. read more

My son has been taking drum lessons since the school opened 4 years ago. He was five years old at the time and learned to read sheet music within a couple of months. He has blossomed into a very good drummer but the most important part of the experience is the self confidence he has built over the years. What separates this music school vs others is 1) amazing teachers. Ulf, a very accomplished musician, has accumulated a staff with amazing experience that allows them to customize each lesson to each of their students. They really care and that is very evident in their enthusiasm that I see week after week. 2) learning development. The school's founder, Hans Peter Becker, has extensively studied child development and has incorporated different learning techniques into the program that has produced incredible results. My daughter is also taking voice lessons and we have seen a remarkable improvement in her expression and voice projection that has built up her confidence. This is a remarkable school that offers individual and band lessons. The school also puts on concerts several times a year to showcase the student's skills. I highly recommend this school for anyone, young and young of heart. read more

I've been at PMA (formerly known as modern music school) for 2 years now and I am super happy to say that even through COVID, I learn new techniques and improve my overall playing every week. I personally play the drums and right now, we are working on a mashup of Mr. Brightside and Don't Stop Believin'. All the teachers here are really patient and their lessons are engaging, fun, and thoughtful. As a student, I feel pushed to try out new rudiments and techniques while learning my favorite songs at the same time. I would highly recommend for anyone of any skill to go try this out. read more

MMS has been a wonderful school for me as an adult learner. I decided to learn the drums as an adult, something I always wanted to do, and MMS helped me feel comfortable being a beginner, while also taking my goals seriously. The staff is friendly and approachable and their instructors are top notch. When COVID shutdowns hit, they handled it professionally and quickly. I moved seamlessly to online lessons at my usual time and the sound and video setup worked well. When they opened up again, the environment was clean and well thought out to protect everyone and help students take advantage of the benefits of in-person learning. I highly recommend Modern Music School! read more

Well almost 16 y old and still here. Between, songwriting, music theory, Bass, guitar, PIANO, voice, band class and their awesome program Tommorows Rockstars w Lucas we drive all the way out here 3 days a week. The communication w the owner is clear and precise. He listens as you work together to do what's best for your child and their learning process. It's amazing to see how far she has come and loves every minute of it. Can't thank Ulf, Lucas, Bret and others for her learning to implement her love of music. You NEVER have to ask her to practice ever! Her growth from all the talent here at MMS abounds in many directions. Thank you to all the staff that makes her continually feel proud of her accomplishments, goals and dreams! What next... well she says drums! And w the staff that she adores I am sure we may be looking at a fourth day! The constant updates to be current w the office etc is sure to make you feel the progress and growth of the staff to make everyone feel welcomed. read more

We have loved MMS (now Pasadena Music Academy) for what... 8 years now? WE LOVE IT. My son has been taking drums with Ray weekly for that long - he's awesome. Ray keeps the lessons interesting and engaging and my son never misses - he loves it that much. Never bored. We can't wait for the band program to start back up - if you are on the fence , try it out. Ulf is wonderful - the whole team is great. We whole heartedly recommend them. read more

My oldest child started taking violin lessons at PMA when she was falling behind in her school zoom instruction. She really enjoyed her lessons and is blossoming. She likes it here so much that she started taking vocal lessons as well. My middle child was reluctant to start drum lessons, but after his first visit, he was hooked and can't wait for his next class. They were really great with scheduling and managed to get both of the kids' classes scheduled at the same time. We're looking forward to signing up our youngest for the early music program in the fall. read more

I have both kids in different music classes here, one play Drums and the other Saxophone and both love it! They have fun whilst learning both music reading/notes and their instrument. I appreciate the philosophy of the school with teachers that have a nice balance of theory and playing contemporary music. read more

My son and I love MMS! The admin is super friendly, helpful and provides great customer service.  We started with piano/vocal lessons with Alejandra. She is so patient, sweet and excellent at teaching young children.  She made the practice very fun and my son looked forward to her piano lesson every week.  My son has grown tremendously in piano lessons. When the in -person lesson restarted, my son switched to drum lessons with Jonas because he wanted to try something new. (Yes, they have a variety of instruments to choose from! ) Jonas is an amazing teacher and knows how to motivate kids to improve their skills and also makes lessons always fun. Both Alejandra and Jonas helped and worked so hard to maximize his skills. My son has been a very successful school talent show contestant for two years in a row in playing piano and drum. MMS teachers and staff are so professional, wonderful and caring.  They really engage with the students and put their effort into meeting students' needs and expectations.  I cannot say enough great things about this school. read more

MMS is the best! Staff are awesome and approachable and foster such a welcoming, warm and encouraging environment. I love music but have never learned anything myself and Ulf is soooo awesome and encouraging to my 5 year old and Bret is kind, patient and encouraging to my 8 year old who is learning to play the guitar (even through some disabilities that he has). I would HIGHLY recommend this school to anyone looking to expand their love and understanding of music. Keep the music ALIVE!! read more

I've always wanted to learn to play the guitar and so I checked out Modern Music. The place is really nice and the manager, Ulf, took the time to show me around and to explained to me how much more training their instructors get compared to other schools. I am definitely going to give it a try. read more

Modern Music and the owner, Ulf, have greatly transformed my son's knowledge and skill in drumming. My son had been taking drum lessons for years but never was taught as a music professional until he had lessons at Modern Music. Ulf was so patient and professional with my son and really fostered my son's passion for drumming even more. I have recommended Modern Music to several friends and will continue to refer this amazing gem of a music school! read more

I'm so happy I found the right fit for my vocal coaching needs! Ronja (and Lucas) have been very thorough and encouraging instructors. Having very little formal training and singing in a weird, dark-wave electronic band makes me a challenging student, but both instructors have truly helped me find my voice and improve my vocal health. I am just at the beginning of my learning experience, but I truly feel like I am in good hands. Modern Music School is motivating me to focus more and improve my vocal technique as well helping me with the creative aspect of songwriting. I like the format and the organization of the business model. Thumbs up!!! read more

My daughter has been going there for 4 years now and has made some great relationships in her group lessons and loves her piano teacher, Ronja. Everyone on staff is so friendly and personable. They really work with the strengths of each individual. My daugher is really happy and it has really helped with building her confidence and opened up her love for music! We all need a good balance of art, music and academics! I highly recommend the school! read more

My wife and I came for music instruction as a duo, keyboard and voice. Lucas is fantastic to work with -- he is supremely adaptable, able to meet our needs in the moment even as those have varied widely between developing a song performance with the two of us, focusing on voice and/or keyboard, and helping me recognize chords by ear. He's given us some great tools and Ulf has also been very helpful in making sure our needs are met. Thanks for a great musical experience! read more

Great music program, amazing teachers. All of my kids are really enthusiastic about their music lessons and after every lesson they are already excited for the next one. 5 stars no question! read more

My family has been part of MMS since it's early beginnings in Pasadena. We finally found a place where kids are encouraged to play music they LOVE and still learn the fundamentals of music that will benefit them for years to come. Every teacher we have had has been kind, encouraging and professional. The office is comfortable, staff friendly and warm, and equipment state-of-the-art. MMS is a place where music is loved and seen as a gift to be enjoyed. We wouldn't take lessons anywhere else! read more

Modern Music School has been a terrific experience for our kids, exceeding our expectations! Our 14-year-old daughter began learning to play the drums there 7 months ago and enjoys it so much she takes two lessons a week. She looks forward to these lessons, eager to learn more of her favorite songs. Her progress has been so quick and impressive. Our 12-year-old son began learning the bass at Modern Music about three months ago and now is part of a weekly band workshop where he gets to play with other musicians, which he is enjoying immensely. I can't credit Modern Music enough for their exciting and fun teaching style, letting the kids learn their instruments through the songs they love right from the start. The kids get to feel the thrill of playing to their favorite music from their first lesson, always developing their skills as they progress through different songs. read more

Modern Music School is German thoroughness in a great teaching philosophy, very qualified, skillful and kind instructors who are real musicians themselves and very professional teaching environment and equipment. The instructors are from all over the world and bring a wonderful dynamic and international spirit that naturally attracts and has a great influence on our kids in learning and loving music. Our three children all are learning to play music and two of them are playing in a band class. With their band they have surprised themselves, us the parents and their own teachers by playing classic rock and pop songs superbly, in 3 public performances. Nothing but gratitude and admiration what MMS has done for our kids. read more

Ulf Geist is great! My son plays the drums and has taken lessons before, but since taking privately with Ulf he is actually practicing at home for the first time! He claims Ulf is patient with him and his mom and I really encouraged in a way we've never seen him before. Thanks MMS! read more