Business Details
41 Years
experience
Your Trusted Music Education Partner in Nashua
The Nashua Community Music School has been a cornerstone of musical education and community engagement in Greater Nashua for four decades. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, we are dedicated to creating innovative music programming that is accessible to all, regardless of age, background, or financial means. Our mission extends beyond traditional music lessonswe envision a world where music becomes a catalyst for social change, artistic expression, and community connection. With a focus on professional-level instruction, we cultivate an inclusive and creative environment where students of all skill levels can thrive. Our programs are designed to foster collaboration through music, offering customized experiences that cater to individual needs while building bridges across diverse populations. Over the years, we have provided opportunities for over 300 individuals weekly through scholarships and free programs, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder access to quality music education.Our team of experienced educators and therapists works tirelessly to deliver services that transform lives, open doors to new possibilities, and connect people from all walks of life. We take pride in our ability to adapt to community needs while maintaining the highest standards of musical excellence and innovation. From early childhood classes to adult enrichment programs, our offerings are as diverse as the community we serve. By combining technical proficiency with emotional and social development, we empower students to become not only skilled musicians but also confident, creative individuals ready to contribute meaningfully to society.
Services
Music Lessons
Music Therapy
Group Music Classes
Early Childhood Music
Music Outreach
NCMS Rock Band
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We have 40 years of experience serving Greater Nashua's musical needs
- Our faculty provides professional-level music instruction tailored to individual goals
- We maintain an inclusive environment welcoming students of all ages and abilities
- Our community collaboration initiatives connect over 300 individuals weekly through music
- We offer need-based scholarships ensuring access to music education for all
Services
Music Lessons
Personalized one-on-one music instruction for all ages and skill levels. Our certified instructors teach various instruments and vocal techniques while adapting to individual learning styles. Students develop technical proficiency alongside musical creativity through customized lesson plans that emphasize both classical foundations and contemporary applications. This program serves as the cornerstone of our educational offerings.
Music Therapy
Research-based clinical interventions using music to achieve non-musical goals. Board-certified therapists work with individuals facing physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges through tailored music experiences. Sessions improve motor function, communication skills, and emotional well-being while providing measurable therapeutic outcomes. This evidence-based practice integrates seamlessly with traditional treatment approaches.
Group Music Classes
Collaborative learning experiences fostering musical and social development. Offerings include string ensemble, rock band, and multi-generational performance groups that build technical skills alongside teamwork abilities. Participants gain stage experience through regular recitals while developing rhythmic precision and harmonic awareness in supportive group settings that emphasize collective achievement.
Early Childhood Music
Developmentally appropriate music education for children aged 0-7. These interactive classes use singing, movement, and basic instrument play to establish foundational musical concepts while supporting cognitive and motor skill development. Parent-child participation strengthens bonding while creating lifelong musical appreciation through playful, sensory-rich learning experiences.
Music Outreach
Initiatives expanding music access to underserved populations. Mobile instruction brings services to schools, senior centers, and community facilities while scholarship programs ensure financial barriers don't prevent participation. Outreach efforts focus on creating inclusive musical opportunities that build community connections through shared creative experiences across diverse demographic groups.
People
Chris Cole
Vice Chair
Over 15 years of involvement with NCMS through his twins' participation in lessons and ensembles. Committed to maintaining the organization's mission while addressing evolving community needs through musical innovation and excellence.
Donna Kraus
Board Chair
Active board member leveraging personal experience as both parent and advocate for music education. Focuses on sustaining organizational mission while expanding community impact through strategic leadership and program development.
Karen Boivin
Board Member
Joined the board after witnessing NCMS's transformative impact on her daughter's musical journey. Advocates for music education's role in personal growth and professional development through organizational stewardship.
Cassidy Smith
Board Member
Current student perspective on NCMS's educational quality and supportive environment. Promotes accessibility for learners at all life stages, emphasizing music's role in building confidence and creative expression.
Joel Desjardins
Board Member
Motivated to share music's benefits while modeling artistic engagement for his children. Focuses on community outreach and expanding NCMS's role as a cultural resource for diverse populations.
Questions
What music programs do you offer for different age groups?
We provide programs for all ages including early childhood classes, private lessons for children and adults, and senior-friendly music activities. Our group ensembles accommodate various skill levels and age ranges.
Are scholarships available for music lessons?
Yes, we offer need-based scholarships funded by The Community Fund. Over 300 individuals receive financial assistance annually through our commitment to accessible music education.
How can I join the NCMS Rock Band or String Ensemble?
Current NCMS students can audition for these performance groups. Check our website for specific requirements and seasonal audition dates for our collaborative, multi-generational ensembles.
Do you provide music therapy services?
Yes, our board-certified music therapists deliver evidence-based treatments addressing physical, emotional, and cognitive needs through customized therapeutic music interventions.
Reviews (3)
Catherine Ellison
May 18, 2022
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My 10 year old takes viola with Peter Paetkau and he does a great job. The office staff are friendly and knowledgeable.
Cassidy Smith
Feb 23, 2021
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I travel 35 minutes from Concord to Nashua for voice lessons at the Nashua Community Music School and have for four years because they are simply the best and worth it! As an adult student, I find the school a wonderfully supportive place where you're never too old to pursue a passion, with truly outstanding teachers. The school has also adapted beautifully to the pandemic and managed to make lessons via Zoom enjoyable and a welcome break from working from home. I cannot recommend NCMS enough to anyone.
Music School Parent
Jun 21, 2011
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We have two kids that have taken Harmony Road, choir and piano lessons at the school. They were very honest when my son was not well suited for music. They did not push it and insist that he continue when we realized his learning disability made it really uncomfortable to do lessons. On the other hand my daughter is interested in music and has taken many different types of lessons, classes and camps with them over the past four years. She has truly excelled and is enjoying music because of NCMS!
