Business Details
Your Premier Destination for Music Education in Manchester, NH
Manchester Community Music School has been dedicated to transforming lives through music education since its founding. Our institution provides comprehensive programs including private lessons, ensemble performances, and board-certified music therapy for students of all ages and abilities. With 40 of New England's finest educators and therapists, we serve over 1,500 students annually while maintaining a strong commitment to accessibility regardless of financial circumstances. Our facility in historic Manchester, NH, offers a supportive environment for artistic growth through weekly theory classes, masterclasses, and recitals.We prioritize individualized instruction matched to learning styles while fostering community connections through outreach programs and performances at venues like The Currier Museum of Art. Our financial assistance initiatives ensure music education remains accessible to all, reflecting our core belief that music should be a universal right rather than a privilege. Through adaptive lessons and specialized programs for students with diverse needs, we demonstrate our commitment to inclusive music education.
Services
Private Lessons
Music Therapy
Ensemble Programs
Early Childhood Classes
Adult Education
Suzuki Method
Performance Opportunities
Music Theory
Adaptive Lessons
Community Outreach
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ experienced music educators and board-certified therapists
- Our programs include 12 diverse ensembles for all skill levels
- We provide adaptive lessons for students with special needs
- We guarantee performance opportunities at regional venues
- Our financial assistance ensures accessibility for all families
What people say
Friendly staff
Awesome teachers
Improve talents
Professional pianist
Favorite activity
Services
Private Lessons
Personalized music education for all ages and skill levels with professional instructors. Students receive tailored instruction matched to individual learning styles and goals. Includes access to weekly theory classes, masterclasses, and accompanied recitals.
Music Therapy
Board-certified therapists use music to support physical, emotional, and cognitive development. Programs address motor skills, communication, stress management, and creative expression through individualized treatment plans. Available for all ages and abilities.
Ensemble Programs
Twelve diverse performance groups including orchestras, jazz ensembles, and chamber groups. Develops musical skills through collaborative playing while building social connections. Opportunities for public performances at regional venues.
Early Childhood Classes
Specialized programs for children aged 0-8 including Suzuki method and Mini Maestros. Focuses on foundational music skills through age-appropriate activities. Parents participate in classes with young children.
Adaptive Lessons
Customized instruction for students with disabilities or learning differences. Qualified instructors implement necessary accommodations while maintaining high educational standards. Combines music education with therapeutic benefits.
People
Polly Towner
Executive Director
Professional voice and choral teacher with extensive experience in music education leadership. Oversees all operations while maintaining active teaching responsibilities. Holds advanced degrees in music performance and education.
Suzanne Denu
Director of Music Therapy
Board-certified music therapist with expertise in early childhood development. Specializes in creating engaging, individualized lesson plans for toddlers. Leads the school's innovative music therapy initiatives.
Marln R. Wolfe
Director of Development
Manages fundraising and community partnerships to support the school's mission. Brings decades of nonprofit development experience to expand access to music education programs.
Sipra Kolar
Director of Performance
Coordinates performance opportunities and recruitment efforts. Ensures high artistic standards across all ensemble programs while fostering community engagement through musical events.
Cindy Wester
Business Administrator
Handles financial operations and administrative systems. Ensures smooth day-to-day functioning of the school while implementing efficient business practices.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We offer programs for all ages from early childhood (0-5 years) through adult education and lifelong learning opportunities.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes, we provide a payment plan option and financial assistance programs to ensure music education remains accessible to all families.
What instruments can I learn?
We offer instruction in piano, violin, guitar, woodwinds, brass, percussion, voice, and music composition with qualified specialists.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes, students participate in recitals, community performances at senior centers and The Currier Museum, and 12 different ensemble groups.
Do you offer special needs programs?
Our adaptive lessons program provides customized music education for students with disabilities or learning differences using specialized teaching methods.
What makes MCMS unique?
We combine 40+ expert educators, board-certified music therapy, and community outreach programs to create a comprehensive, inclusive music education experience.
Videos
Reviews (2)
Ariana Hernandez
Jan 30, 2020
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What I personally love about this place is that the instructors are very kind and patient. My older brother went here for some piano lessons. Although my brother has been playing for 7 years, he wasn't good enough to be called a "professional pianist" until he came here. He learned so much and was playing like a pro in about a week! I would have to say that this music school really can help you improve your talents in a way you couldn't imagine. But see for yourself and see what I said was true.
Tristan Aho
Nov 20, 2017
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Best School for all ages. Grate Teachers. I would recommend this school to anyone who wants to learn music
