Uh oh! You're using an unsupported browser.

It appears you're using Microsoft Internet Explorer or an early version of Edge. To fully enjoy this website — and pretty much every modern website in existence — we suggest you upgrade to Chrome or Firefox. You'll be happier.

More Info

History

Upper Valley Music Center (UVMC) was the brainchild of three founders: a parent with a background in marketing, a professional string teacher with extensive experience in academic and business administration, and an amateur chamber musician with years of involvement in the nonprofit field.

All three were active members of the presenter group supporting the Carnegie Chamber players. The success of the Carnegies’ modest outreach program persuaded the founders of the need for a regional organization to foster musical activities for players and singers of all ages and levels of experience. They founded UVMC in 1995 with a three-fold mission:

  • to create instrumental and vocal ensembles where none existed
  • to serve as a clearinghouse for information about the area’s musical organizations and activities
  • to provide a place for people to come together to develop their musical knowledge, proficiency, and enjoyment

UVMC initially focused on providing ensemble opportunities and chamber music, including two choruses for young people, a community orchestra for adults, and string ensembles for young instrumentalists

In 2002 UVMC started a Suzuki violin program, a philosophy and method of instruction that teaches music in the same way children learn their primary language. The success of the Suzuki Program, which included individual instrumental instruction, paved the way for a growing faculty in a variety of instruments and voices. 

In 2008, UVMC moved to 63 Hanover Street in Lebanon and expanded further to become the region’s only community music school. New program offerings included individual lessons, group classes, ensembles, workshops, and master classes with guest artists. Early childhood and adult programs grew quickly.

In 2017 UVMC’s Board of Directors launched Securing Our Future: The Campaign for a Home for Music Education in order to create a permanent home for the organization. With a flood of community support, UVMC purchased and renovated the Kendrick-Wood House, an historic building in downtown Lebanon. The doors opened with a grand opening celebration on September 9, 2017.

In May 2018, UVMC hosted Sing & Play 50k. This musical marathon featured 50,000 seconds of music in support of music education. The event raised $100,000 from more than 1,000 donors, but most importantly it created a day to celebrate music making by and for each other.

In 2021, the Bringing Us Together campaign helped UVMC install a state-of-the-art, energy efficient HVAC system. This forward-thinking investment provides fresh, filtered air to everyone making music, and helps UVMC be a good environmental steward. 

In 2025, UVMC will be celebrating 30 years of making music in the community. During this special year, we’ll be celebrating through gatherings and performances of all sizes and shapes, including children in their first recital, adults in orchestra or chorus, and accomplished faculty and guest artists sharing their music.

Our mission continues to be providing and promoting the best in music education throughout the Upper Valley and ensuring everyone has access regardless of their means.