For 20 years, Manchester Community Music School’s Music Therapy program has used the power of music to create connection, foster self-expression, and build a sense of belonging for thousands of individuals and families throughout our community.

Meet Vera & Mary

Mini Maestros Student

When Mary moved to the area, she was looking for more than just activities, she was looking for community.  

She found it at MCMS through our Mini Maestros groups, where she and her daughter discovered connection, joy, and a shared love of music.

Mini Maestros is not just about learning music early . It’s about finding your people. 

Mary Kennedy and her daughter Vera
-Mary Kennedy and her daughter Vera attend weekly Mini Maestros Early Childhood classes
-David and his brother Tom, perform at Rising Stars NH after weeks of preparing in our MT program.

Meet David

Individual Music Therapy

For more than a decade, David has been a familiar face in the Music Therapy program at Manchester Community Music School. A lifelong lover of music, he attends his weekly music therapy session without fail, making it as much a part of his routine as work, coffee with friends, or family time.

Through music therapy, David has explored piano, percussion, xylophone, and performance opportunities that allow him to express himself, connect with others, and experience the joy of making music. While his favorite songs and instruments may change, one thing never does: his excitement about coming to MCMS each week.

For David, music therapy is more than a session, it is a place of belonging. It is a space where he is known, welcomed, and encouraged to live fully through music.

Meet Joe

Band Practice

Young performers are invited to apply for the opportunity to work directly with Rachel in an interactive Broadway masterclass. Participants will receive coaching on performance skills, stage presence, audition techniques, and storytelling through song.

This class is open to all musical theater performers.

Space is limited. Register today to be considered for participation.

Music Therapy
-Joe comes to Band Practice every week with his dad.

Save Your Seat for the first annual Music Therapy Showcase

August 29th | 11 AM
MCMS Gymnasium

This community open mic event will feature performances by Mini Maestros children & Music Therapy clients, participants, families, with MCMS Music Therapists Suzanne, Lyle, Leah, and Cami.

Reserve your seats today and join us for an inspiring morning of music.

Meet The Team:

Suzanne Denu, MT‑BC

Director of Music Therapy
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"Programs don't change communities overnight. They change communities by showing up week after week, year after year. For two decades, MCMS music therapy has been a constant source of healing, growth, and belonging in Greater Manchester." - Suzanne Denu

Cami Carpenter

Cami Carpenter, MT-BC

Music Therapist Voice
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Leah Joy Clark

Music Therapist Board Eligible
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Lyle Shaw, MT-BC

Music Therapist, Keyboardist, Guitarist, Bassist
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Jacqueline Ward

Music Therapy Intern, Voice, and Piano
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Our team of board-certified music therapists provides more than 2,500 music therapy sessions each year, helping individuals of all ages and abilities build connection, confidence, self-expression, and a sense of belonging through music.

Wear your Support of Music Therapy

Support music and healing with our music therapy merch at MCMS. Please note shipping may take up to 15 days. Please order with enough time before the showcase.

20 Years of Music Therapy at Manchester

Support MT a Sponsor

As we celebrate this milestone year, we invite businesses, foundations, and community leaders to partner with us in expanding access to music therapy for children, adults, and families throughout our region.

Sponsorship opportunities begin at $500 and provide vital funds to ensure the continuation of our program.

The Music Therapy Program is proudly supported by:

Your support expands access to therapeutic care, strengthens community partnerships, funds financial aid, and ensures that people of all abilities can experience the healing, connection, and joy that music makes possible.

Together, we are celebrating 20 years of impact and building the foundation for the next 20 years of changing lives through the power of music. 

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Questions? Email Development@mcmusicschool.org

Snow Day Alert:

Closed Monday, February 23rd, due to winter weather. School re-opens on Tuesday the 24th for make-up classes only. NHYE rehearsals cancelled. Happy Winter Break!