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.
Music Therapy Stories:
Chris
Christopher was born 14 weeks premature and with drugs in his system. He weighed one pound, 12 ounces. His blindness was the result of his extreme premature birth. He was adopted by his aunt and uncle — who are now his mom and dad. Christopher was around five when he was diagnosed with autism. His speech pattern was echolalic — meaning he would repeat back what he heard — but he had little ability to communicate.
Christopher entered the Music Therapy Program in 2008 where he and his family learned to communicate with songs — songs about putting on socks and shoes, or about shampoo. Music therapy helped Christopher focus on speech and language skills, gradually gaining the ability to communicate. Since then, Christopher has performed to a capacity crowd at Fenway Park, to attendees at the American Academy of Pediatrics conference, and at fundraising events for the NH Charitable Foundation.
Joe
Vera & Mary
Mini Maestros Family
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.
David
Individual Music Therapy Client
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.
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.
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."
Meet The Team
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.
From the Music Therapy Archives:
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.
Support Our Music Therapy Program
As we celebrate this milestone year, we invite individuals, businesses, foundations, and community leaders to partner with us in expanding access to music therapy for children, adults, and families throughout our region.
Give what you can. Sponsorship opportunities begin at $500 and provide vital funds to ensure the continuation of our program.
The Music Therapy Program 20th Anniversary 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?
