The Conservatory began life as the Ada Clement Piano School in 1917, founded by Ada Clement and Lillian Hodghead at 3435 Sacramento Street. In 1923 the School was renamed the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, offering also courses in the orchestral instruments and in chamber music. It was directed by Ernest Bloch from 1925 to 1930, then by Clement and Hodghead to 1950. From 1951 to 1957 its director was Albert Elkus, during whose years the Conservatory moved to 1201 Ortega Street, where it remained until its move to 50 Oak Street in 2006.

Moriz Violin, having emigrated from Vienna to San Francisco in 1939, aspired to join the ranks of the teaching faculty. It is unclear whether, despite his having talked to people influential in San Francisco musical circles, he was ever employed by the Conservatory.

Contributor: