Business Details
43 Years
experience
Private Music Lessons & Therapy in Nashua, NH
Founded in 1983, Nashua Community Music School has dedicated four decades to transforming lives through music education and therapy. Our mission centers on creating accessible, innovative programming that fosters artistic expression and community connection. With board-certified music therapists and faculty holding advanced degrees, we deliver personalized instruction across 20+ instruments, evidence-based therapy sessions, and outreach programs tailored to diverse needs. As a 501(c)3 organization, we prioritize equity through need-based scholarships funded by The Community Fund, ensuring socioeconomic barriers don't limit access to the arts.Our partnerships with local schools and cultural institutions amplify our impact, while our leadership team's combined 50+ years of experience in music education and nonprofit management maintains our high standards. We measure success through student growth, community engagement metrics, and the measurable mental health benefits our therapy clients achieve.
Services
Private Music Lessons
Music Therapy
Group Classes
Scholarship Programs
Music Outreach
Summer Camps
Early Childhood Music
Instrument Instruction
Community Workshops
Performance Ensembles
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We offer 40 years of experience in community-focused music education
- Our faculty includes board-certified music therapists and master's degree holders
- Customized programs adapt to individual learning needs and goals
- Need-based scholarships ensure equitable access to all programs
- Community partnerships extend our impact through outreach workshops and performances
Services
Private Music Lessons
Individualized instruction available on piano, guitar, strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Expert faculty tailor lessons to each student's goals, skill level, and learning style. Remote and in-person options accommodate busy schedules while maintaining technical excellence.
Music Therapy
Evidence-based interventions led by MT-BC certified therapists address cognitive, emotional, and physical development goals. Custom programs serve individuals with disabilities, mental health challenges, and neurodiverse needs through songwriting, instrument play, and music-assisted therapy techniques.
Group Classes
Collaborative music education for children and adults includes beginner violin groups, musical theater workshops, and intergenerational ensembles. Structured curricula balance technical skill development with social interaction in weekly 45-minute sessions held at our Nashua facility.
Scholarship Programs
The Community Fund provides need-based assistance covering lesson fees, instrument rentals, and program costs. Applications consider household income, special circumstances, and commitment to musical growth without creating financial barriers to participation.
Music Outreach
Customized music education delivered to schools and organizations includes instrument demonstrations, performance ensembles, and tailored therapy services. Our traveling instructors adapt programming to client needs while maintaining educational quality and accessibility standards.
People
Lindsay Rinaldi
Executive Director
MM in Opera Performance with 10+ years leading music education programs. Recognized as 2019 Music Educator of the Year by Symphony NH, she develops curriculum and oversees faculty training while teaching voice lessons.
Krystal Bloom
Director of Music Therapy
MSW and MT-BC certified therapist specializing in trauma work and LGBTQAI+ mental health. Holds degrees from Berklee College of Music and University of New Hampshire, with expertise in community-building through music therapy.
Cody Switzer
Assistant Director
Classical guitarist with MA in Arts Administration from Florida State University. Organized Florida Guitar Festival and managed 100+ staff at Whole Foods before joining NCMS leadership team in 2023.
Brittany Stockwell
Marketing Coordinator
Classically trained violinist with teaching certification from Simmons University. Former studio manager and creative consultant brings marketing expertise to promote NCMS programs while teaching string instruments.
Melinda Schreffler
School Registrar
MM in Music Education with seven years teaching K-12 programs. Certified in Feierabend music education methods, she manages student enrollment and supports program accessibility for diverse learners.
Questions
What music lesson options are available?
We offer private in-person and remote lessons on 20+ instruments, voice coaching, and group classes for all skill levels.
Do you provide financial assistance?
Yes, The Community Fund provides need-based scholarships covering full or partial program costs for qualifying students.
What is music therapy?
Board-certified therapists use music interventions to achieve non-musical goals like improving motor skills, emotional regulation, and cognitive development for all ages.
Are there programs for young children?
Our early childhood classes include Mini Musicians for ages 4-7 and Musical Play Groups for children under 5 with caregivers.
Do you offer community outreach programs?
Yes, we bring customized music workshops, ensemble performances, and instrument instruction to schools and organizations across Southern New Hampshire.
