Your support leads to our 112th year of inspiring minds and enriching community through music education!
A single note builds a resilient community
2025 brought us together to build music, resilience, connection and community. In 2026, we will increase our sound, reach, and legacy through music education, community connections, and building bridges of opportunity, hope and harmony.
Source: Nonprofits Source, 2024
About our mission
Neighborhood Music School was founded in 1914 by composer, musician, teacher and philanthropist Carrie stone Freeman. By contributing $1000 to launch NMS, it was her belief that music is a common language that builds community, care, and investment in the world around us. 111 years later, we carry this legacy of love as a core component of our mission to inspire minds and enrich community through music education.
Gifts from donors like you
3300+
Students served this year
Through private lessons, school residencies, workshops, and community creative sessions, NMS provides programming in 3 school districts in LA County.
6 Tuition free Ensembles
Playing together brings more joy!
Coro, Mariachi, Latin Jazz (NMS), Latin Jazz Sessions(AITP), Community Band(AITP), and strings comprise our Tuition-free Ensemble program at NMS.
$80,000+ tuition scholarships
Scholarship support ensures that every family budget can fit with NMS music education.
Private lessons at NMS are designed to be affordable for every family.
"Music is important in my life because it helps me express my emotions more. I get to socialize with others, I feel creative and it has taught that its okay to make mistakes and it is okay to take my time to learn."
- Omar G.