Enrol now at the Christchurch School of Music

Christchurch School of Music

The Christchurch School of Music is a not-for-profit family-oriented community aimed at providing quality music education. Why not come along and join us?

From ages 2 to 92 we have something for everyone!

On a Saturday morning the whole family can find something to suit. Preschool and junior school children can start their musical journey by joining in our experiential “Take Off with Music". These classes are run by experienced music educator and CSM’s Music Director, Celia Stewart, who has extensive training and experience in working with children of all ages. The classes are carefully planned to ensure maximum fun, engagement and music learning.

At 4 1/2 years children are also able to begin learning Suzuki violin or cello with our very experienced Suzuki teachers and at 5 years old the recorder is a great way to start children learning an instrument that will set them up with music reading and musicianship skills that will last a lifetime.

Older children and adults may opt for group or individual lessons on a specific instrument (including voice). Those who already play are welcome to join in one of the great ensembles which all take part in regular concerts including Saturday soirees and a wide range of community events. Recitals where individuals can perform are also held regularly.

The UC Christchurch Youth Orchestra, CSM’s top orchestra, generously sponsored by the University of Canterbury Foundation, has an exciting concert series throughout the year. Their upcoming concert, “Confessions” being held in the Charles Luney Auditorium on 11 August is an excellent opportunity to hear Christchurch’s top youth musicians in concert. (Tickets available through Eventfinda.)

With six orchestras, two concert bands, a Big Band, a jazz combo, 6 wind ensembles, rock bands, two choirs, chamber groups, a samba band and a guitar ensemble there is an ensemble to suit all levels and all ages.

CSM also provides a comprehensive music education to participating primary schools via its Outreach programmes. With programmes offered in band, strings, recorder and ukulele in a wide range of Christchurch schools this is an area of the School which has grown fast over the last few years.

Another popular area of the School is the Late Starters programme where adults approaching retirement with more time on their hands have really enjoyed learning an instrument they never had the chance to play in their early years and join an ensemble with other like-minded adults.

If Saturday isn’t an option, CSM also offers a range of weekday opportunities for learning and playing music.

If affordability is an issue, CSM may be able to offer a discount through funding provided by the Rata Foundation.

Enrolments are open for Semester 2 so please contact us via our website www.csm.org.nz and let us start you on a musical journey that will bring pleasure for a lifetime. Learn more