The Conservatory Program

Unparalleled music education for students dedicated to their craft.

The only program of its kind in the state of Utah, our Conservatory program trains students to perform at a professional level, equipping them to enter the nation’s top music schools and build careers as soloists, orchestral musicians, and educators. 

Our international-level Conservatory admits students aged 8 to 18, by audition only, with full scholarships provided. Here, students join a community of like-minded peers who share a deep commitment to their craft. We foster an inspiring learning environment where students are not only guided by world-renowned faculty but are also motivated by the collective excellence of their fellow students.

Conservatory admissions
Conservatory curriculum

Our Mission:

We strive to develop well-rounded individuals who will thrive in the most demanding conservatories and universities — and in life. Our faculty, among the most respected in their fields, provide exceptional mentorship and instruction, empowering each student to reach their highest potential. 

To nurture the next generation of musicians, leaders, and visionaries.

A curriculum crafted for a holistic musical education

Strengthening students’ understanding of music’s structure and their ability to internalize melody and rhythm.

Music Theory

Providing regular opportunities for students to perform and receive expert feedback.

Performance Classes

Offering insight into the evolution of musical styles and forms, with specialized courses in piano and orchestral literature.

Music History and Literature

Learning how to identify music and composers of all periods and having the opportunity to compete at a national level.

Music Listening Contest

Offering fundamental and important piano skills for students whose main instrument is not piano.

Supplemental Piano

Exploring the mind-body connection through movement and frequent guest artist visits for masterclasses and workshops.

Forum

Choir, Orchestra, Guitar Ensemble, Piano Ensemble, Chamber Music

Developing collaboration, active listening skills, and musicality in an ensemble setting.

With each class, our students gain not only technical proficiency but also the artistry, discipline, and resilience that will serve them both in music and beyond.

View full curriculum details

Where dedication opens doors to opportunity

Our students are immersed in a culture of success, where dedication, hard work, training, and mentorship translate to life-changing opportunities. Each year, our Conservatory students receive hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarship offers from some of the world’s most prestigious universities and conservatories. We don’t just produce musicians—we inspire the leaders, educators, and innovators of tomorrow.

Our graduates have gone on to study at elite institutions such as:

Peabody Conservatory of Music

San Francisco Conservatory of Music

Berklee College of Music

University of Michigan

Brigham Young University

The Juilliard/Columbia Dual Degree Program

The Juilliard School

Curtis Institute of Music

Harvard University

Stanford University

The Colburn School

Yale University

New England Conservatory

Princeton University

University of Utah

Our teachers nurture a culture of excellence, achievement, and inspiration

Our 40+ world-class instructors produce students who go on to study at every top music conservatory in the United States. Academically oriented students have been accepted on scholarship to every local university and top academic programs like Stanford, Harvard, Rice, Columbia, and Yale. In addition, our students place at local and national competitions, are heard on NPR’s From the Top, and are frequently awarded national and regional level honors.

Meet the faculty

Young Community Artists program: A partnership between our Conservatory and Utah Symphony Utah Opera

Our Young Community Artists (YCA) program, which has partnered with Utah Symphony and their Associate Conductor Jessica Rivero Altarriba, is open to all students across the community who wish to participate in our wide range of Conservatory class offerings. Whether you’re pursuing advanced ensemble work or taking your first steps in a new discipline, YCA invites you to explore the full breadth of our music education programs.

Classes include ensemble and performance-based opportunities, and some may require a video audition or placement exam upon registration. To ensure accessibility, we offer both need-based and merit-based scholarships through our financial aid application, availablehere. Students already taking private lessons at Peterson School of Music will receive priority consideration for scholarships for their YCA classes.

Explore the course offerings below and register today to secure your spot in this exciting new program.

Young Community Artist Program Offerings

Ensembles and performance classes

Supplemental and academic classes

Movement and wellness
classes

  • Our orchestra program offers students the unique opportunity to participate in weekly rehearsals where they engage with a broad repertoire, preparing for 3-4 performances each year. With focused sectionals led by our expert faculty, string players receive specialized training to refine their ensemble skills. In an exciting collaboration with the Utah Symphony, students will prepare for the spring concert under the guidance of Associate Conductor Jessica Altarriba, making this an unparalleled experience for young musicians aiming to reach their highest potential.

    • Instructors: Eugene Watanabe and Shenae Akagi

    • Meets: Saturdays, 8:00-10:15 am

    • Tuition: $525/Fall Semester, $595/Spring Semester

    • Prerequisite: Video audition (2 contrasting pieces)

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

  • Join our Guitar Ensemble and explore an expansive repertoire for classical guitar while developing advanced ensemble skills. This group provides a unique opportunity to hone musicianship and artistry in a collaborative setting. Students will perform in a variety of venues throughout the year, showcasing their growth and dedication.

    • Instructor: Sophie Stanley

    • Meets: Fridays, 4:00-5:00pm

    • Tuition: $450/Fall Semester, $510/Spring Semester

    • Prerequisite: Video audition (2 contrasting pieces)

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

  • Chamber music is a cornerstone of any serious musician’s education. At Gifted Music School, we place students in chamber groups based on playing level, style, and experience. Each group benefits from weekly rehearsals and coaching sessions with our esteemed faculty. In addition, students participate in guest masterclasses and have frequent performance opportunities, allowing them to refine their collaborative skills while deepening their musical understanding.

    • Instructors: Faculty coaches assigned by Chamber Music Chair, Dr. LeeAnn Morgan

    • Meets: Saturdays, 10:20-12:20pm

    • Tuition: $525/Fall Semester, $595/Spring Semester

    • Prerequisite: Video audition (2 contrasting pieces)

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

  • Chamber music is a cornerstone of any serious musician’s education. At Gifted Music School, we place students in chamber groups based on playing level, style, and experience. Each group benefits from weekly rehearsals and coaching sessions with our esteemed faculty. In addition, students participate in guest masterclasses and have frequent performance opportunities, allowing them to refine their collaborative skills while deepening their musical understanding.

    • Instructors: Matthew Robertson

    • Meets: Saturdays, 1:00-1:45pm

    • Tuition: $525/Fall Semester, $595/Spring Semester

    • Prerequisite: Grade 9-12

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

  • Join our Guitar Ensemble and explore an expansive repertoire for classical guitar while developing advanced ensemble skills. This group provides a unique opportunity to hone musicianship and artistry in a collaborative setting. Students will perform in a variety of venues throughout the year, showcasing their growth and dedication.

    • Instructor: Sophie Stanley

    • Meets: Fridays, 4:00-5:00pm

    • Tuition: $450/Fall Semester, $510/Spring Semester

    • Prerequisite: Video audition (2 contrasting pieces)

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

  • Mastering basic keyboard skills is a crucial element for every musician. Our Supplemental Piano Program ensures that students develop a strong foundation in reading both treble and bass clefs, identifying chords, and analyzing multi-part scores. Whether you’re a beginner or building on existing knowledge, these classes provide essential tools for musicianship. Upon registration and a placement audition, students are assigned to one of the four semester levels of the program.

    • Instructors: Eugene Watanabe and Shenae Akagi

    • Meets: Saturdays, 8:00-10:15 am

    • Tuition: $525/Fall Semester, $595/Spring Semester

    • Prerequisite: Video audition (2 contrasting pieces)

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

  • Interested in expanding your skills to the viola? This class is perfect for violinists ready to take their first steps in learning the viola. With a focus on developing proper technique, learning to read alto clef, and studying viola-specific repertoire, this course is an exciting introduction to a new instrument.

    • Instructor: Dr. John T. Posadas

    • Meets: Saturdays, 12:20-1:00pm

    • Tuition: $270/Fall Semester, $306/Spring Semester

    • Prerequisite: Video audition (2 contrasting pieces)

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

  • These monthly performance classes provide students with the opportunity to perform for their peers and receive valuable feedback from Gifted Music School faculty. Students will refine their repertoire in a supportive environment while gaining confidence in preparation for upcoming performances.

    • Instructors: Eugene Watanabe and Dr. Vera Oussetskaia Watanabe

    • Meets: First Thursday of each month, 6:00 PM–7:00 PM (except April 2026)

    • Tuition: $80/Fall Semester, $100/Spring Semester

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/20/25 (Fall), 1/5/26 (Spring)Instructors: Faculty coaches assigned by Chamber Music Chair, Dr. LeeAnn Morgan

    • Meets: Saturdays, 10:20-12:20pm

    • Tuition: $525/Fall Semester, $595/Spring Semester

    • Prerequisite: Video audition (2 contrasting pieces)

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

  • Our comprehensive Music Theory curriculum guides students through every stage of theory mastery. From foundational concepts to advanced chromatic harmony and form analysis, students are placed in the appropriate level based on a diagnostic exam. This multi-year sequence ensures that students gain the theoretical knowledge necessary to excel in their musical endeavors.

    • Instructors: Assigned based on placement exam

    • Meets: Saturdays 1:55-3:10 pm or 3:15-4:30pm (depending on placement)

    • Tuition: $800 for the full year (32 classes)

    • Prerequisite: Diagnostic exam on August 17th

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

  • Explore the breadth of Western music history through our engaging Music History curriculum. Students will be placed in the appropriate level based on their background and experience, starting with Music History I and progressing into specialized studies such as Orchestral History or Piano History.

    • Instructor: Dr. Koji Attwood

    • Meets: Saturdays, 2:00-3:00pm or 3:15-4:15pm (depending on placement) 

    • Tuition: $640 for the full year

    • Prerequisite: Placement exam

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

  • Led by ballet dancer Jennifer Beaumont, these classes focus on the mind-body connection and the role of movement in musical performance. Guest speakers throughout the year will cover a variety of topics, including performance preparation, music careers, and improvisation.

    • Instructor: Jennifer Beaumont and guest speakers

    • Meets: Fridays, 4:00-5:00pm or 5:00-6:00pm

    • Tuition: $375/Fall Semester, $425/Spring Semester

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/20/2025 (Fall), 1/5/26 (Spring)

    • Instructor: Mark Rau

    • Meets: Fridays, 5:00-7:00 (4 levels of 30-minute classes, depending on placement)

    • Tuition: $150/Fall Semester, $170/Spring Semester

    • Prerequisite: Placement exam

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/20/25 (Fall), 1/5/26 (Spring)

    • Instructors: Eugene Watanabe and Shenae Akagi

    • Meets: Saturdays, 8:00-10:15 am

    • Tuition: $525/Fall Semester, $595/Spring Semester

    • Prerequisite: Video audition (2 contrasting pieces)

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

  • Explore how the physicality of table tennis complements musicianship by improving timing, rhythm, and focus. Under the guidance of internationally-certified coach Wesley Guan, students of all skill levels will benefit from this unique and engaging wellness class.

    • Instructor: Wesley Guan

    • Meets: Saturdays

    • Tuition: $45 (90-minute group class) or $45 (30 minute private lesson)

    • Registration Deadlines: 8/15 (Fall), 1/5 (Spring)

The Starling Scholarship

We are grateful to have received another generous grant from the Dorothy Richard Starling Foundation, which is recognized nationally for supporting the education of future top concert violinists. Since 2017, the Foundation has chosen to partner with us in supporting the violin studio of Peterson School co-founder, Mr. Eugene Watanabe.

  • The Dorothy Richard Starling Foundation Scholarship is available to violin students who demonstrate a serious commitment to their musical studies and meet the following eligibility requirements:

    • Applicants must be admitted to the Conservatory at Peterson School of Music (new or returning students), and enrolled for the coming school year.

    • Students who are awarded the scholarship will study with Mr. Watanabe as their only primary violin instructor, or in approved special circumstances, in close collaboration with a Conservatory violin faculty member. 

    • Applicants must demonstrate exceptional talent and commitment to pursuing a career in music.

    Visit our Admissions page to learn more about application and audition requirements.

  • The criteria for selection include, but are not limited to:

    • Evidence of an absolute commitment to becoming a concert violinist:

      • Solid track record of practicing consistently (4-hour daily average) and thorough preparation

      • Past record of achievements or successful performances that suggest a possible performance career at a national or international level.

      • Demonstrated prioritization of music training (e.g prioritizing Conservatory over conflicting activities or extracurriculars)

     

    • Evidence of a commitment to comprehensive, well-rounded musical instruction:

      • Full commitment and participation in the artistic and academic offerings of the Conservatory program.

      • Citizenship in both Mr. Watanabe’s studio and the Conservatory.

  • The scholarship covers the following for each recipient:

    • Tuition for the Conservatory program.

    • Private lessons with Mr. Eugene Watanabe.

    • Limited accompaniment fees for working with a collaborative pianist (Dr. Conlan Miller or Dr. Whitney Pizza)

    • Limited reimbursement for travel to national/international competitions.  Students need to file a travel assistance request (and approval) prior to the event.

     

    Students wishing to renew their scholarships will need to file a renewal application outlining their accomplishments for the past year. Students who receive these awards will be named “Starling Scholarship Recipients” and will play a critical role in representing our school and the Watanabe Studio in competitions, performances, program notes, and biographies.

You can direct any questions about our Starling Scholarship to scholarships@petersonschoolofmusic.org

Resources

Audition information:

  • March 1-May 15: Online applications are open; application fees due by May 15

  • May 23: Live auditions at our school

  • June 20: Final decisions sent 

    Full admissions information > 

Student handbook: 

Review a copy of the current student handbook here. 

Upcoming competitions and festivals: 

Bachauer Junior and Young Artists International Competitions

  • Pianists 11-18 years old: Junior (11-14 years) and Young Artist (15-18)

  • Application Deadline: Due September 15, 2025

  • Competition: Junior, June 14-20, 2026; Young Artist, June 21-27, 2026

  • Location: Salt Lake City, UT

Recent performance videos from our Conservatory

Explore our full library on YouTube