The Journey of Emiliano Diaz-Graham: From MDYMP to the School of the Arts
Emiliano Diaz-Graham’s music journey began with the violin at Westport Elementary, but after two years, he realized it wasn’t for him. “I didn’t really like the violin that much, and I didn’t like my teacher much either,” he recalls. During his time in this school orchestra, he discovered his true passion: the bass. Fascinated by […]
Congratulations to Our 2024-2025 Merit Scholarship Awardees and Recital Performers
The CMC faculty and staff audition students every May for full scholarships for private lessons in the upcoming school year. These scholarships are awarded based on need and merit. This year, the jury listened to numerous students playing a diverse range of repertoire. The jury would like to express their gratitude to everyone who helped […]
Melodies of Heritage: Celebrating Asian Music in the US
May is Asian Heritage Month, a time to honor the diverse cultural traditions, histories, and contributions of Asian communities. At CMC, we celebrate the significant influence of Asian music and musicians in the United States. This month, we spotlight the rich contributions of Asian musical traditions and artists who have enriched the American musical landscape, […]
Unleashing Your Voice: A Guide to Expanding Your Vocal Range
Whether you’re just starting your vocal journey or returning to the world of singing after a hiatus, expanding your vocal range is a crucial step towards unlocking your full potential as a vocalist. Your vocal range not only determines the notes you can sing comfortably but also influences your versatility and ability to tackle a […]
Sabrina Raphael: Making a Difference Through Volunteering
Sabrina Raphael embodies the power of volunteering, especially in the community of music. Her heartfelt commitment to facilitating access to music education for all has driven her involvement with the Community Music Center (CMC). For Sabrina, music is a unifying force that brings people together, creating a community of like-minded individuals who share the same […]
Buying a Keyboard: Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Instrument
As a piano student, selecting the right keyboard is crucial to your musical journey. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, your instrument should embody quality, functionality, and inspire your creativity. In this guide, we’ll explore the essentials of buying a keyboard, including features, brands, and sample models across different price ranges. Basics A […]
Beginner’s Guide to Voice Studies
“I don’t sing because I’m happy. I’m happy because I sing.” ― William James There are few joys as accessible as singing—whether it’s singing along to the radio, joining a community choir, singing a bedtime lullaby to a child, or just in the privacy of your own shower—it’s the only instrument that’s part of yourself. […]
From Student to Opera Composer: The Journey of Vance Maverick
Vance Maverick, a composition student at CMC, is ready to debut his first opera this June at the CMC Concert Hall in the Mission. His path to this achievement has been marked by dedication, collaboration, and support from the community. Maverick’s passion for musical composition began at 13 when he discovered the Bach Brandenburg Concerti. […]
Elevating Trans Voices: New Voices Bay Area TIGQ Chorus
Creating community through music, especially through singing, is an incredible gift that we all possess. We have this amazing ability to connect through communal music-making, communal creation, and shared purpose, and it’s something that is perfectly encapsulated in choir and choral settings. It’s such a refreshing and soul-releasing opportunity that we have, becoming an amazing […]
Black Music- A Soundtrack of Social Movements and History
If you ever want to know anything about what people have gone through, in writing it can be manipulated and changed. And we know that we have seen narratives changed over and over throughout the years. But one thing you cannot change is the music, the music has always told the story. – Maestro Curtis, […]