Community School

At the Colburn Community School of Performing Arts, we are committed to making music education accessible to everyone who has a passion and curiosity for music at every level of ability. Our world-class teachers share their expertise with students of wide-ranging musical interests and varying ages, from seven months to adults.

Located in sunny Los Angeles, the Community School offers online and in-person music lessons on many instruments—piano, strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, and voice. All experience levels welcome, from beginner to advanced.

At the Community School, students join together to perform chamber music and as part of large ensembles. The school also focuses on students’ understanding of music theory. Classes cover the basics of reading pitch and rhythm. As they progress in musicality, students employ more complex analysis skills. We encourage students to combine theory with applied instruction and ensemble activities for a well-rounded educational experience.

Violinist wearing a pink turtleneck smiling with teacher sitting down

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Meet Our Faculty

Ted Sugata holding an oboe and smiling in front of a window. He is wearing glasses.
Ted Sugata, DMA
Oboe Faculty

A native of Southern California, Ted Sugata is currently second oboist with the Pacific Symphony Orchestra. Previously, he was a member of the Sarasota Orchestra in Florida, and principal oboist with the Lyrique-en-Mer Opera Festival in Belle-Ile, France.

Michael Yoshimi, DMA
Clarinet Faculty

At 17, Michael made his solo debut performing the Mozart Clarinet Concerto with the Honolulu Symphony as a winner of their Young Artists Concerto Competition.

Margaret Batjer
Margaret Batjer
Violin Faculty, Academy Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra

Margaret Batjer, a graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music, has served as concertmaster of the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra since 1998. Throughout her successful career as soloist, chamber musician, teacher, and concertmaster, she has established herself as a versatile and respected artist worldwide.

Miji Kim
Piano Faculty, Class Piano Faculty

Ms. Kim is active as a chamber musician and accompanist in the Los Angeles Area. She is a founder and pianist for Sharon Trio and Iris Chamber group.