The Douglas College Community Music School has been a part of New Westminster’s arts community since 1984. Known as the “CMS”, our continuing education classes provide a dynamic environment dedicated to nurturing and enhancing musicians at all levels including:
- singers or instrumentalists seeking to join an ensemble
- youth and adult musicians preparing to apply for music programs at the post-secondary level
- anyone interested in an introduction to audio engineering & music technology and/or developing skills in music literacy
- current Douglas College students looking to participate in non-credit ensemble opportunities
We also offer a variety of courses over the summer for youth and adults. Please see the tabs on the left for more information on specific course offerings.
All classes and rehearsals are held at the New Westminster Campus in our state-of-the-art facilities including multiple rehearsal rooms, practice studios, a music technology lab, and two recording studios. Concerts and recitals are held in the 350-seat Laura C. Muir Performing Arts Theatre.
Community members and all non-music Douglas College students are welcome to join any of the Music Department's ensembles alongside students in our music programs. All ensembles rehearse and perform at the New Westminster campus. Ensembles include Chorus, Chorale, Concert Band, Jazz Band, and Percussion Ensemble. More information and audition details can be found here.
The Music Prep Classes focus on the fundamentals of music literacy including theory and aural skills. Designed for those interested in pursuing music at the post-secondary level, these classes build on previous experience in music including high school music programs.
Music Technology Prep Classes are designed to provide potential applicants to the Music Technology Diploma Program with the skills and knowledge required for entry in the program. The classes are also available to anyone interested in in an introduction to recording engineering technology and music theory. No previous experience is necessary.
The Audio Engineering series is made up of three sequential courses that are offered by CMS as part-time, non-credentialed learning. Participating students will learn how to set-up and operate recording equipment and audio software through hands-on experience.
The Community Music School is planning a relaunch of our Summer Programs in the future with the following classes:
- Jazz Intensive (all ages)
- Concert Band Intensive (all ages)
- Music Technology for Secondary Music Educators
More information and registration details will be provided here once the new program dates have been confirmed.