About
A thriving community hub
Music for Everyone!
The Nelson Centre of Musical Arts is a bustling, thriving community hub that is accessible, affordable and inclusive.
Situated in the heart of Nelson, our mission is to be Aotearoa New Zealand's most vibrant, innovative and accessible music community. We have provided a welcoming and sustainable environment where our community can teach, learn, create, perform, appreciate and connect through music since 1898.
Our two performance spaces are acclaimed by local and visiting performers. The historic Nelson School of Music Auditorium is frequently regarded as one of the best concert halls in the southern hemisphere.
A word from our director
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Nelson Centre of Musical Arts.
Whatever your engagement with Music and the Sound Arts, we intend you will find a suitable place for it here, and friends here who share your vision.
At NCMA our definition of music is deliberately as broad as you care to make it. We love hearing new ideas and learning about new music, and our capable administration team are here to support our diverse and creative community.
Whether you join our team of 80 teachers, our 700-strong student body, our community of 800 regular users each week, or visit us as one of the 80,000 who attend an event or concert at NCMA each year, we aim to leave you feeling welcome, valued and inspired.
The historic Nelson School of Music Auditorium is a national taonga, and we are honoured to have the responsibility of managing the facility and ensuring it is maintained and available for generations of Nelsonians to come.
Thank you for trusting us with your music.
James Donaldson
Director