San Francisco, CA – The Community Music Center is proud to announce its expanded Mission Branch Campus, a historic milestone for the organization. The new state-of-the-art facility, situated in San Francisco’s Mission district, underscores CMC’s century-long commitment to music education and community engagement.
“We’re excited to celebrate the grand opening of our expanded campus, reflecting our dedication to preserving the neighborhood’s history and fostering music education,” said Executive Director Julie Rulyak Steinberg.
The expanded campus will provide access to 900 additional students annually, offering instruments, 35 new group classes, rehearsal spaces, and performance opportunities. Currently serving over 3,300 students, with nearly 70% receiving tuition assistance totaling $2.98 million in 2023, CMC remains dedicated to inclusive music education.
The $15.1 million project, supported by private donations and a new market tax credit, broke ground on February 16, 2022. Gelfand Partners Architects, Inc., Oliver & Company, and Ventura Partners led the project.
The remodeled 1880s Victorian house adjacent to CMC’s current location at 544 Capp Street offers 4,000 additional square feet. Spaces include a digital piano lab, six teaching studios, seven rehearsal spaces, two administrative spaces, and a 50-person Recital Hall. Each space prioritizes state-of-the-art acoustics, HVAC systems, and safety/accessibility.
In addition, the Concert Hall, built in 1926, has been remodeled, presenting over 50 free and low-cost performances annually. Outdoor spaces have been refreshed for community engagement.
Founded in 1921, CMC has a rich history, offering decades of tuition-free programs. The expanded Mission Branch Campus aims to continue fostering inclusivity, creativity, and the transformative power of music for generations.
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