High-level training. Inspiring musicians.
The Fried Music Pre-College Program is a conservatory-style training program for dedicated young classical musicians (ages 12–18), offering weekly performances, chamber music, orchestra, and classes in an inspiring, performance-driven environment.
Applications are now closed.
Email foundation@friedmusic.com for any further registration inquiries!
Audition Requirement: Please prepare two pieces to play for the audition. However, if one piece is substantial enough to demonstrate musicianship, it will be acceptable to only perform one work.
Live auditions will take place at our school in Alhambra. Video audition option is available made on a case-by-case basis. Please email info@friedmusic.com for your reasons when you send in the application. Scholarships will be awarded based on auditions.
Important Dates
Important dates for Pre-College are linked below for convenience. Application deadlines, program schedules, recitals all detailed!
Program Details:
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Performing is a key aspect of being a musician. It's not just about playing the notes; it's about connecting with an audience, managing stage nerves, and building the confidence to shine in any setting. Through live performance opportunities, students learn to navigate the challenges of the stage, improving their accuracy and stage presence beyond the practice room. These experiences are crucial for personal and musical growth, helping students not only evolve as musicians but also as individuals. The program provides ample performance opportunities through community engagement concerts around the city.
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Chamber music is all about the magic that happens when musicians come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. It’s a chance to develop skills like sight-reading, listening, rhythm, and the subtle art of musical expression—all while collaborating with others in an intimate ensemble setting. There’s something truly special about the way chamber music pushes you to grow, not just as a player, but as a teammate. And it’s a lot of fun too!
The Pre-College Program successfully merged with the Junior Chamber Music program in the past two years, with students benefiting from multiple opportunities granted exclusively through the partnership both programs. No additional time commitments or repertoire preparation is needed to join JCM, but students will be able to enjoy opportunities and competitions offered exclusively by the program.*The Junior Chamber Music program tuition and fees will be included in the total tuition of the Fried Music Foundation’s Pre-College.
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String orchestra/large ensembles for pre-college students challenges musicians to grow through the community and also expanding their musical repertoire. With a focus on fostering collaboration and skill development, the orchestra encourages students to reach new heights in their musical journey. For the last two years, the program also featured commissioned works by our resident composer, Wesley Chu, whose original compositions are tailored specifically for our students, offering a unique and inspiring experience.
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In the first semester, students dive into the fundamentals of music theory and ear training, building a strong foundation for their musical journey. While learning their newly assigned repertoire, they'll deepen their understanding of how music works, helping them connect more meaningfully with the music they play. This strong start equips them with the tools to not only play music but truly understand its structure — laying the groundwork for a lifetime of music-making and appreciation.
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For young, ambitious musicians, competitions are a valuable way to push their skills and gain valuable experience. However, the right preparation is key to standing out and performing at their best. We provide students with the tools they need to succeed, offering regular performance classes, personalized advice from musicians actively competing on the international stage, and more. This hands-on guidance helps them build the confidence and strategy they need to compete powerfully and with purpose.
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Every musician’s journey is unique. That’s why we take a personalized approach to scheduling and practice hours, tailoring each student’s experience to their specific needs and goals. With a hands-on approach that’s special to small programs like ours, students are encouraged to communicate openly with Connie, ensuring that their individual needs are met while also being part of a supportive and collaborative community.
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Scholarships are merit based and will be awarded based on the live audition June 6, 2026. Student are typically granted scholarship between 50-80% of the full tuition cost.
Total Tuition:
Full Year (approximately 35 Saturdays): $5,500
Per Semester: $2,750Tuition includes:
Chamber Music Coachings (Scheduled weekly, depending on both student and teacher availability)
String Orchestra
Individual Practice Time
Community engagement performance opportunities
Weekly Performance Classes
Exclusive Masterclasses with Visiting Artist Faculty
Two Formal Concerts (with professional video/audio recording)
Junior Chamber Music, which includes exclusive competition/tour opportunities
FAQs
Every Saturday from 10:00am to 5:30pm seems like a lot. Can my child handle this?
When we first launched the program, there were many trepidations about the time commitment. However, we found that the time truly flies by! Our students sometimes stick around till as late at 8pm. We do ask for a steady and regular commitment on the Saturdays where Pre-College takes place. Inevitably, non-avoidable conflicts will occur, such as outside concerts, exams, and/or required school events. We can make exceptions to the absence under these special circumstances with early and detailed notice from a guardian/parent of the child. As a full scholarship program, committed attendance becomes of the highest importance.
What does a typical day look like?
The daily schedule of our students can vary depending on the time of the year and the needs of our students. But the basic structure is as follows:
10:00am-12:30pm - Class/Lecture/Practice Time
12:30-1:30pm - Lunch
1:30-3:30pm - Chamber Music
4:00-5:30pm - Orchestra/Performance Class
This sample schedule adapts depending on the needs of our students. Individual practicing, special workshops, performances, or community engagement concerts will affect the “usual” scheduling.
How do I know if my child is at the appropriate level for this program?
The best way to know is to audition. Generally, students with a steady and consistent history of private lessons and daily practice are good candidates for the program. A high level of seriousness and commitment to music is expected.
What is Junior Chamber Music and how does it work with the Pre-College Program?
Junior Chamber Music is a program that was founded in 2002. It strives to bring students from around the city together and provides them with the joyful experience of making music as small groups. In our collaboration, we provide the space and rehearsal/coaching scheduling on a weekly basis, reducing the burden of scheduling rehearsals and coachings outside of the Saturday Pre-College dates. Therefore, the JCM requirements are built into our Saturday program, avoiding extra time commitment on the students and their families.
Who is eligible to apply?
Violinists, violists, cellists, pianists, classical guitarists, and flutists are eligible to apply. We are open to applications of other select instruments, not listed above! Please email us or send in an inquiry to confirm whether or not your instrument can be accepted into our program.
What is the age requirement?
Our recommended age limit is 12-18 years old. However, we can make exceptions (both under and above the limit) to this rule based on the audition, and if we feel they would be a good fit for the program.
What is being said…
“The Pre-College Program provided opportunities for my kids to develop teamwork and listening skills while in chamber music, to learn music theory and ear training and finally to strength self discipline when practicing. Choosing to attend Fried Music was one of the best decisions that we ever made and I am very grateful for the experiences that we have had here.”
“Ansel has grown through this program—both musically and personally. His confidence has increased tremendously, and it’s been amazing to watch him develop his skills and passion for music. We love the opportunities he has to watch others perform and to perform in front of a crowd. I truly appreciate the support and encouragement Fried Music provides to all their students.”
— Lucy L.
— Angel & Andy