About Us
Mission
Affordable Access
CMC enhances the greater Portland community by providing opportunities for all ages to learn about, make and enjoy music.
Service
We accomplish our mission by providing affordable music classes and lessons, free and low-cost concerts and workshops, low-cost instrument rentals, and other resources for the public, all subsidized by the City and the non-profit.
Results
About 350 participants of all ages currently enjoy regular music activities at the Center and through partner activities, instructed by a faculty of over 25 professional performing artist teachers.
History
Started as a PP&R program in 1955
CMC begins offering group classes for adults at the Knott Street (now the Matt Dishman) Community Center, under director Robert Crawley and Recreation Director Dorothea Lensch.
Moved to its own building in 1957
CMC became a stand-along program in a repurposed firehouse in the Woodstock neighborhood. Director Isadore Tinkleman added youth programs.
Non-profit Founded in 1960
A group of parents and other supporters including Elizabeth "Betty" Gray (pictured), formed the first official board of directors of the Community Music Center, to support PP&R music programs.
Moved to SE Francis Street in 1969
The program expanded once again into the current Francis Street location, another repurposed fire station. Philip Murthey and Charles Farmer directed and built the program in succession for 30 years.
Present
The Community Music Center continues to grow and evolve, now partnering with organizations in East Portland as well as continuing programs in the Francis Street location, under current director Gregory Dubay