We have a 13-year-old who started the 5th grade at the PBA day school (and is now in 8th) after being in the after-school program for three years. He really enjoyed the after-school program and learned a lot of music and music theory there and in the day school. He loves to sing and frequently sings around the house, or with his school mate with whom he rides to school. He is challenged by the school work and enjoys his classes which include 1.5 hours of singing every day. Three years ago they had a memorable musical experience performing with the SF Symphony with Michael Tilson Thomas conducting, one of many.
We also have a now-16-year-old who attended the after-school for two years and loved it, but then middle school happened and he got distracted there. In 8th grade by his own choice he was back in the after-school program after a two year break. He rode AC Transit to the program twice a week and really enjoyed it and enjoyed the other kids. He has been heard singing at home, alone and harmonizing with his brother.
The teaching staff is very qualified, stable, and energized. We went to the recent back-to-school night and came away impressed with the staff and grateful for the education our boy is receiving. The boys are mostly engaged and seem happy to be there. Parents of the boys, some of whom work at the school, speak highly of the PBA experience, two used the word “magical” to describe it.