CMC Features
Join us for our annual Friends and Family celebration! As a cherished friend of Community Music Center, we are thrilled to invite you to an evening filled with delightful food, refreshing drinks, and lively music! Bring along your loved ones for a night celebrating our community. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with music, light bites and […]
The Afro-Peruvian Cajon is more than just a percussion instrument; it is a powerful symbol of identity, creativity, and cultural pride. Born on the coasts of Peru, this simple wooden box drum has a fascinating history deeply tied to the Afro-Peruvian community and its resilience. The Cajon was created out of necessity and ingenuity. During […]
A cappella music has a unique appeal that not only captures the essence of the hits we love but also invites singers to explore and expand the possibilities of their voices. What’s fascinating about this style is the ability to turn a simple human voice into something much bigger: a musical instrument that can mimic […]
It started with trains. I loved model trains as a kid, and my dad and I would go stand by the railroad tracks in Oakland, CA to watch the real ones go by. When I moved to Walnut Creek, CA near the Iron Horse Trail, a former stretch of Southern Pacific tracks turned recreational path, I became fascinated […]
Throughout history, transgender, intersex, and gender-queer (TIGQ) singers have faced unique challenges, but they have also made extraordinary contributions to music. From paving the way for greater visibility in both classical and popular music to breaking barriers on global stages, these artists have transformed the way we understand identity and art. One of the earliest […]
By Sai Ray “If I could tell you, I would.” These were the first words that legendary trumpeter Terence Blanchard spoke to around 50 young musicians in SFJAZZ’s Miner Auditorium. Last month, Blanchard taught a free composition workshop to students from around the Bay Area, presenting a very special and unique educational opportunity. For me […]
At CMC, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of teaching. Through music, CMC educators create welcoming spaces where students from all backgrounds can grow both as artists and as people. Two teachers, Martha Rodríguez-Salazar and Michael Mohammed, show how inclusive teaching can transform students’ lives. Mariachi as a Bridge: Martha Rodríguez-Salazar Martha Rodriguez-Salazar, who […]
As Carolyn steps into retirement this year, CMC reflects on her incredible contributions, steadfast commitment, and heartfelt connection to the organization and its mission. Her journey with CMC has been one of passion, community building, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of music. Carolyn’s story is deeply intertwined with the city she calls […]