MSU Community Music School's Inclusive Music Program

Learning to sing or play an instrument is not just for kids! People of all ages and abilities are invited to the MSU Community Music School (CMS) open house Sunday Sept. 8, from 3–5 p.m. Take this chance to learn more about the wide array of music programs offered at CMS, including music therapy clinical services for individuals with special needs.

(EC Open House) Playing with scarves during an interactive early childhood class designed for children 0-7.

There will be plenty of engaging activities for the whole family during the open house. Start with the instrument “petting” zoo which gives people, both young and more mature, the opportunity to try a variety of instruments. At CMS, there is no age limit or prior musical experience needed to pursue one’s passion for music.

At any point throughout the open house, take the time to:
• talk to members of the “New Horizons” adult community bands about how even those with no music experience can be a part of one of the bands;
• visit the CMS piano lab for some hands-on, fun learning with one of CMS’ piano instructors;
• participate in an informal audition for one of the CMS Children and Youth Choirs
• register for lessons, classes or ensembles.

(Piano Open House) Getting the feel for the pianos in the CMS piano lab.

“The Community Music School has something for everyone and the open house is a great time to learn more about CMS programming. We are lucky enough to see the impact that music can have on people and want to make these experiences possible for everyone,” said Jaime DeMott, CMS director. “CMS offers financial assistance for families in need and a discount for MSU faculty, staff and students.”

CMS offerings include private and group lessons, adult and children’s choirs, early childhood music, music therapy, beginning band for adults, string ensemble, Suzuki strings, piano and more. Enrollment for fall lessons, classes and ensembles can be done through the CMS website, by phone or in-person at the CMS office. Fall semester begins Sept. 9.

CMS is located at 4930 S. Hagadorn Road in East Lansing and is the outreach division of the MSU College of Music. With the mission to provide comprehensive music education, CMS strives to offer a variety of classes and quality instruction to interested individuals of all ages and abilities, with financial assistance for those in need.

For more information, visit www.cms.msu.edu or call (517) 355-7661.