Music as a Vehicle for Community Development

Music has long been a powerful tool for connection, expression, and social change. Community music programs remove barriers and provide young people with access to innovative music education. Our first webinar for 2026 features Richard Marsella, Executive Director of Community Music Schools of Toronto (CMST) on transformative models in community music, from noise parades to musical playgrounds.

Drawing on practical examples from his own research and lived experience, Richard will highlight how community music can bridge cultures, foster exploration and creative expression, and cultivate engaging, inclusive, and healing spaces.

Founded in 1999, CMST (formerly Regent Park School of Music) has grown from 71 students in its first year to bringing music to 800 youth annually in the Regent Park and Jane Finch communities of Toronto. More than just a place to learn music, CMST provides students with social enrichment activities, mentorship and volunteer opportunities, workshops, talks, industry experiences, special artistic collaborations, and most importantly, a sense of personal belonging and identity within and beyond their communities. Check out this spotlight video about CMST on YouthREX’s You-Tube channel, REX TV.