

Welcome to the Villa Maria Conservatory
New from Villa Maria Academy
Aspiring young musicians have the opportunity to learn from the best in an intensive, in-depth, and dynamic environment. The Villa Maria Conservatory offers a carefully-curated educational program, unlike any in the area, which approaches music education from all facets. Operated as an independent institution on the campus of Villa Maria Academy High School in the western suburbs of Philadelphia, the Villa Maria Conservatory offers a peaceful and beautiful suburban setting where inspiration and excellence can take root.
Our Philosophy
Structure, Development, Knowledge, Performance
With a goal of developing well-rounded musicians with broad knowledge, the Villa Maria Conservatory surrounds the young musician with knowledge, support, structure, and discipline. Music instructors bring excellence, artistry, and creativity to their lessons, encouraging students to develop and share their unique skills, talent, and personalities.
Students will have a focus on music that serves as a building block toward great achievements as they grow. Coursework from the Associate Board of Royal School of Music (London, UK) curriculum as well as external opportunities to personally excel in their musical pursuits and showcase their skills at competitions are a focus for our dedicated students.
With additional opportunities to participate in the Penn Youth Orchestra or private lessons, students will improve their musicianship skills with other skilled students.
Curtis Institute of Music
A valuable partnership
It's at the Curtis Institute that the world's most talented young musicians become the leading artists, creators, and innovators in classical music. Villa Maria Academy High School and Conservatory have a special opportunity to experience the artistry of Curtis musicians in interactive programs curated specifically for them. We are indeed thrilled to experience the musical performance excellence defined by the Curtis Institute of Music at Villa Maria Academy High School.
Other Partnerships
- American Harp Society
- Associate Board of Royal School of Music (Testing Center)
- Pennsylvania Youth Orchestra
- Music Angels Inc.
Meet the Director
Ms. Leah (Kyoungwoon) Kim-Tomilson

Ms. Leah (Kyoungwoon) Kim-Tomilson is the founder/president of MusicAngels non-profit organization and the Fine Arts Department Chair and Director of Music at Villa Maria Academy High School. Ms. Leah is the founder/director of Villa Maria Conservatory, a violinist in Fairmount String Quartet, La Croix Quartet, and founder/Director of Pennsylvania Youth Orchestra and Chamberstrings Summer Camp.
Our director studied Performance and Pedagogy at Juillard, Peabody Conservatory at Johns Hopkins University, and the National Conservatory in France. She was invited to teach in a forum sponsored by five conservatories in Madrid, Spain during Summer 2026.
Apply Today!
2026-27
Diploma Program
The Diploma Program includes:
- Theory
- Ear Training
- Solo Coaching
- Sight Reading
- Chamber Music
- Other Workshops Offered by the Conservatory
(Students do not need to be taking lessons at the Villa Maria Conservatory in order to participate in the Diploma Program.)
Read about the curriculum, audition information, and class dates.
PMEA District 12 Workshop
Coming soon!
Private Music Lessons
The Villa Maria Conservatory also offers private lessons for anyone who wants to take music lessons at Villa Maria. Lessons are available for all instruments, with the following fee structure:
Pay as you go. Lesson length can be:
30-Minute Lesson
45-MInute Lesson
60-minute Lesson
Lessons are available for:
- Bass
- Bassoon
- Cello
- Clarinet
- Flute
- Oboe
- Piano
- Saxophone
- Viola
- Violin
- Voice
Fees may be found on the application form.
Important! After you apply, please choose your preferred instructor and time using this Google Form:
Choose Instructor/Time
Please reach out to Ms. Leah Kim-Tomilson with any questions.
Individual Courses
Music Theory & Ear Training
Our class follows coursework from the Associate Board of Royal School of Music (London, UK) curriculum. This is a year-long class.
Chamber Music
Participate in a music ensemble of two students or more. Each session includes a time for rehearsal and coaching.
Solo Coaching
Individual session with theory-background pianist/music faculty for solo repertoire coaching.
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