Leo Baluk: From Student to Mentor
Leo Baluk, a cellist and current director of the strings department at CMC, is a clear example of the positive impact accessible music education can have. Born and raised in San Francisco, his journey with CMC began in middle school when he started taking cello lessons at the Richmond branch. Over time, his connection with […]
Uke Can Do It! The Perfect Place for Beginners of All Ages to Start
We all have to start strumwhere, and if getting started on learning an instrument feels daunting, ukulele might just be your perfect match! Ukuleles are affordable, portable, and quick to get playing. They support your other musical endeavors too: you can accompany yourself or others singing, and make a great launchpad to get into larger […]
Singing to Heal: Alicia Zárate
In 2015, Alicia Zárate took a step that would change her life: she joined the Neighborhood Choir Program for Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities, which helped her overcome a deep sadness. In November 2014, she lost her husband, which plunged her into severe depression. It was her sister who encouraged her to try something […]
Finding Community: Monix’s Story
Monix’s voice resonates not just in harmony with others but with a deep sense of belonging. As a member of New Voices Bay Area TIGQ Chorus, a mixed-voice choral ensemble for transgender, intersex, and gender-queer singers, Monix began their journey as a way to connect with a community, and it has since become an important […]
The Voice That Never Fades: The Inspiring Story of Rose East-Bratt
Rose East-Bratt found an opportunity to experience life through joy and community in the Neighborhood Choir for Older Adults and People with Disabilities at CMC. After the death of her husband and a lung cancer diagnosis, Rose fell into a deep depression. However, through her participation in the choir, she has been able to rediscover […]
Celebrating Latinx Heritage Through Music
From September 15 to October 15, we celebrate Latinx Heritage Month, a great time to reflect on how Latinos and Latinas have influenced music in the United States. Their impact is felt across many genres and styles, enriching American music and helping it evolve. Latinx music combines different cultures, creating unique sounds that resonate with […]
Loren Gigi: Music Meets Astrophysics
Loren Gigi, an 18-year-old from San Francisco, has spent nearly her entire life surrounded by music. This fall, she will embark on her academic journey at UC Santa Cruz, where she will study astrophysics. Although her focus is now on the sciences, her passion for music remains strong. Loren has been playing the violin since […]
Connecting Generations Through Music: A Look Inside the Songs and Stories Class
We have a new tuition-free class that is open to you! “Songs and Stories” is an intergenerational class of storytelling and singing, taught by acclaimed theater director, singer, and educator Beth Wilmurt. This performance-oriented class will explore storytelling through songs while learning the practical nuts and bolts of singing along the way. Youth ages 8 […]
Giving Back to Music: Zahra Rothschild
In a world where music can sometimes seem inaccessible, CMC strives to make music education available to everyone. Zahra Rothschild, a talented vocalist, and dedicated music teacher, embodies CMC’s commitment to inclusion by sharing her passion for music with students of all ages. From her beginnings as a student to her current role as a […]
CMC Musicians Provide Live Music in New Series at Bissap Baobab this Fall
CMC is excited to join our neighbors at Bissap Baobab to provide live music every 1st and 3rd Wednesday! Enjoy delicious West African food, tasty beverages, and awesome community “teranga” (hospitality)—with a variety of talented CMC students, faculty, and community performers. It’s also a great opportunity for students to socialize and play with other musicians. The […]