Community Music School of Webster University Celebrates 100 Years of Musical Education

The Community Music School (CMS) of Webster University is celebrating a century of enriching the St. Louis community through high-quality music education, inspiring countless musicians, and fostering a love of music for generations.

Founded in 1925 by visionary music educator and pianist Edna Lieber, the school has made music education accessible to all, from young children to adults who are rediscovering their passion for music. Along the way, the school has produced famed musicians, composers, conductors and entertainers.  It has offered countless music programs, adding to the rich tapestry of arts in the St. Louis region. Throughout its history, CMS has partnered with distinguished musicians, including members of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, ensuring every student receives exceptional instruction regardless of their ability to pay.

“This is more than a celebration of 100 years,” said Nicole Springer, Director of the Community Music School. “It’s a chance to honor our roots, celebrate the present, and imagine the future of music education in St. Louis and beyond.”

The CMS began under the Settlement House Music Schools Committee of the Missouri Federated Music Clubs.  Over the years, the CMS evolved through various transformations, merging with the St. Louis Institute of Music in 1974 to become the Conservatory and School of the Arts (CASA) and later partnering with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra in 1994 as the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Music School. Today, as part of the Leigh Gerdine College of Fine Arts at Webster University, CMS continues its proud tradition of excellence.

Throughout the year, several special events will be held to mark a century of music education in St. Louis. The public is invited to join the celebrations: 

• Members of the public can submit their personal stories and photos that they may have of the CMS over the years for inclusion in a digital time capsule.
• Donate. Donations are always welcome to help a local child learn the joys of music, build confidence and foster creativity.  And every donation is tax deductible as the CMS is a registered non-profit organization.
• Browse through blog posts, historic photos and personal stories on the CMS website.
• Join the community in the 100-day practice challenge. Practice playing an instrument for a minimum of 20 minutes a day for 100 consecutive days. 
• Subscribe to the CMS’ newsletter and receive updates on programs, concerts and special events.
• Support the CMS with exclusive Centennial merchandise. 

For more information about the 100th anniversary events and initiatives, visit webster.edu/cms-centennial.

About the Community Music School of Webster University

Founded in 1925, CMS offers outstanding music education and performance opportunities to students of all ages and skill levels in the St. Louis metropolitan region through individual lessons, early childhood music programs, orchestras, ensembles, chamber music programs, summer camps and the Young Composers Competition.

The Community Music School of Webster University is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music and is a certified member of the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts.