For more than a century, the Community Music Center of Boston (CMCB) has used music to strengthen communities, promote learning, and improve well-being. In a recent WBZ NewsRadio interview, CMCB leaders Zachary Sheets and Rachel Chow shared how the organization continues to make music education and music therapy accessible to people of all ages.
As Rachel Chow explained, “Music therapy is a way to use music to accomplish non-musical goals,” helping individuals build communication, motor, emotional, and social skills through personalized musical experiences. Beyond teaching instruments, CMCB believes that “music is more than just the skills you learn on the instrument. It’s an opportunity for connection.”
The organization is preparing to expand into a new, fully accessible campus in Nubian Square, allowing it to serve even more students, families, and community partners. Designed with accessibility in mind, the new space reflects CMCB’s commitment to ensuring everyone can participate with dignity and joy.
CMCB also offers affordable music lessons, youth employment opportunities, music therapy services, and summer programs, all guided by the belief that “we want music to be accessible for everybody, and finances shouldn’t stand in the way of that.” Through its growing programs and new home, CMCB continues to demonstrate that music can bring people together and create meaningful opportunities for learning, healing, and community.
