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Featured State News

‘Brighter Futures Through Music’: A Night of Inspiration and Giving in Raleigh

@SpectacularMag Staff

RALEIGH, NC—A spectacular evening of music, philanthropy, and community impact will take center stage as Community Music School (CMS) hosts its annual fundraiser, Brighter Futures Through Music, on May 7, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater in Raleigh, NC.

Honoring a Legacy, Changing Lives

This fifth annual celebration honors the legacy of the late philanthropist Tom McGuire, whose passion for music and commitment to enriching children’s lives continues to inspire. Funds raised from the event will provide life-changing music education to students who otherwise would not have access due to financial barriers.

An Unforgettable Evening of Music & Inspiration

John Brown

Guests will enjoy an extraordinary performance by John Brown, Vice Provost for the Arts and Director of the Jazz Program at Duke University. A renowned bassist and educator, Brown embodies the power of music to inspire and transform—a mission that aligns perfectly with CMS’s work.

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Ira David Wood III

Award-winning actor Ira David Wood III will host the evening, bringing energy and charm to ensure a memorable night filled with warmth, humor, and inspiration.

Supporting Music Education for All

For 31 years, CMS has been breaking down barriers to music education, providing high-quality, professional instruction and instruments to students ages 7-18 who otherwise couldn’t afford lessons.

Funds raised from the event will support:

  • Scholarships & educational programs
  • Instrument loan initiatives
  • Community outreach efforts

“We are immensely grateful to our supporters and sponsors,” said Melanie Doerner, Executive Director of CMS. “Their generosity ensures that more children can experience the transformative power of music and explore their full creative potential.”

Join the Celebration & Make a Difference

  • Date: May 7, 2025
  • Location: A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater, Raleigh, NC
  • Suggested donation: $100 (Sponsorships available)

The event is open to the public, but registration is required. Seating is limited, so attendees are encouraged to RSVP early.

For more information and to register, visit the CMS website.

About Community Music School

Community Music School (CMS), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing access to and delivery of high-quality professional, personalized music instruction in multiple genres to children ages 7-18 for just $1 per lesson, which includes a CMS-provided instrument. Since our founding in 1994, Community Music School has impacted the lives of 3,000 students in Wake County. Our program is held at the Longleaf School for the Arts just south of downtown Raleigh. We also operate three satellite programs at the Southeast Raleigh Learning Center, Elon Elementary in Zebulon, and Fox Road Magnet Elementary School in Raleigh.

Join Community Music School, John Brown, Ira David Wood III, and music lovers from across the Triangle for a magical evening celebrating the power of music!