About MCMS
Changing lives through the power of learning, sharing, and making music!
History
Founded in 1983 by Sam and May Gruber, the Manchester Community Music School was the fulfillment of their dream to establish a community music school for Manchester Youth.
Since that time, MCMS has grown to serve more than 1,500 individuals each year across 60 New Hampshire communities. From our littlest maestros at 6 months old to our sensational seniors at 80+ years young, MCMS offers high-quality, accessible music education and music therapy services providing musical experiences across age, ability level, and interest. Programming includes early childhood classes, private lessons, ensembles, music theory classes, master classes, summer camps, the most comprehensive Suzuki program in the state, a well-established music therapy program, and an extensive outreach program.
In honor of their legacy, the Sam and May Gruber recital hall features prominently on the third floor of the Music School where students can be heard rehearsing and performing each and every day.
Community
Community is at the heart of our name. The Manchester Community Music School partners with more than 25 community organizations throughout the state of New Hampshire. These collaborations are important because they allow us to bring our programming into underserved communities and directly to those who could benefit most but who otherwise might not have access.
Performances
What better way to share the music than through performances. MCMS faculty and students perform in more than 50 concerts and recitals throughout the year both in-house and out in the community.
Financial Assistance
Core to our mission of changing lives through the power of learning, sharing, and making music, the Music School is committed to ensuring accessibility to all regardless of an individual’s financial situation. As such, MCMS awards an average of $100,000 in financial assistance each year and subsidizes outreach programming by an additional $100,000.
