This year marks 15 years of musical community service for Southeastern’s Community Music School (CMS). To commemorate the occasion, the CMS will host a concert to be included as a part of Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts’ Fanfare on Oct. 17 at the First United Methodist Church in Hammond.

The concert will showcase individual and group performances from CMS students and faculty.

“For 15 years, the Community Music School has offered music education and opportunity to anyone in the community who has the least bit of interest in music regardless of experience or profession,” said Jivka Jeleva, interim director of CMS. “My belief is it is beneficial for any young child that has an interest in music. In some way it helps them prepare for their life. It teaches them patience and perseverance that continues into their professional life.”

The school offers flexible hours and programs in St. Tammany and Livingston Parishes to help accommodate all schedules. In addition, the CMS routinely hosts live recitals and performance opportunities for each student division.

“Giving students the opportunity to perform in front of an audience helps build their confidence and will carry over to other aspects of their lives,” said Jeleva.

The school offers both private and group classes and is open to interested persons of any age.

“Never be intimidated to try, no matter what age,” said Jeleva. “You aren’t expected to have any ability or skill. The program is to help foster talent by developing it and making the most of it. It doesn’t expect you to already know everything.”

Children of Southeastern faculty have also been CMS students, such as English professor Dr. Jeffrey Weimelt’s two children.

“The community music school is fantastic,” said Weimelt. “It’s a great experience, with quality age appropriate instruction. It’s a very rigorous program.”

The CMS also offers choral and string ensembles and hosts the CMS preparatory choir along with preparatory music theory classes designed around a student’s grade and experience level. Students are also offered the opportunity to study with music professors in master class coaching sessions.

For those wanting a chance to see the students perform, the music school will be hosting its “Shining Stars” concert on Nov. 29 in the Pottle Music Building Auditorium, featuring the talent of a collection of their violin students.

More information about the CMS program, upcoming concerts or registration can be found by contacting Jeleva at 985-549-5502 or visiting www.selu.edu/cms.