Overview & Mission

Originally founded in 1999 as Pasadena International Music Academy, our institution was renamed California College of Music in 2008 and first blossomed under the leadership of legendary trombonist Wayne Henderson of The Crusaders and Grammy-winning producer Reggie Dozier, who designed our College's facilities to function as a professional-grade recording studio. In recent years, under the capable direction of our current Dean & Chief Academic Officer Chris Kapica, M.M., and our institutional Board of Directors, California College of Music has become known for its distinguished faculty of experienced music industry professionals, its focus on popular music performance and production, and the encouraging environment it provides for its students and the community at large to participate in music-making.

California College of Music is located at 42 S. Catalina Avenue in Pasadena, California, conveniently situated near the Gold Line Metro Rail and the 210, 134, and 110 freeways, providing our students with easy access to all major destinations in the Los Angeles area. Pasadena’s diversity and history of artistic vibrancy make it an ideal location for music study. With its unique blend of an urban feel with residential charm, Pasadena is a safe, fun city — perfect for aspiring young music students.

Our mission is to educate musicians effectively, empowering them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to express themselves dynamically through modern popular music. Our vision is to create an inspiring, diverse, and inclusive higher education space in which students, faculty, and members of the community may gather together to study, create, perform, record, and share music.