Crowden Music Center

Location

1475 Rose St
Berkeley, CA 94702

About

When violinist Anne Crowden founded the Crowden School in 1983, she called it her “Grand Experiment.” She was entering unknown territory, and she certainly never imagined that her dreams of a supportive educational environment for musical children would develop into a thriving, established Bay Area cultural institution. Anne succeeded because of the quality of her vision and musical standards, and the force of her personality. Like Anne herself, Crowden inspires unusual dedication and passion.

Today, Crowden is a home for all to explore, to learn, to rehearse, to perform, and to listen to music. Between our rich array of music education offerings for the general public, day school for grades 3 to 8, public school outreach initiative, concerts and events, and community partnerships, Crowden serves roughly 8,000 individuals each year. Anne’s unique stamp—the commitment to musical excellence, the intimate family atmosphere, the particular passion for chamber and new music, the deep experience of interdisciplinary and creative learning—still combine into that tangible Crowden magic.

We believe that music is an inherent part of being human, and we believe in the power of music to change lives—indeed, to change everything.