Student Development Program
Community Music Schools of Toronto (expanding from Regent Park School of Music) is a charitable organization that, since 1999, has given children and youth from low-income neighbourhoods in Toronto a music education that taps into their real potential and lets them thrive. CMST’s after-school, March Break and summer music programs give around 800 students, aged 4-18, a creative and nurturing place where they can, through musical and social programs free of charge, build their confidence and aspirations to pave the way for a rewarding future and play a role in creating more socially just communities.
Through workshops, performances, artistic expression and mentorship, youth can develop a sense of community, relationship-building abilities and problem-solving skills that will help them to develop a foundation for success. Studies have also shown that those who regularly participate in music lessons experience decreased levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. As part of our youth mental health initiative, the Aubrey & Marla Dan Foundation supports CMST’s work to help students flourish, both musically and socially, through CMST’s Student Development program.
