Business Details
28 Years
experience
Your Trusted Music Education Partner in Portland
Founded in 1998, Ethos Music Center Music Center has grown from basement classes at the University of Portland to a thriving organization serving thousands of students annually. Our team of over 30 instructors and administrative staff delivers music education through personalized lessons, group classes, and community outreach programs. We collaborate with schools, community centers, and families to remove barriers to music access, prioritizing underserved urban and rural areas. Recognized eight times by the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities as a top 50 after-school arts program, we maintain a commitment to inclusivity regardless of socioeconomic status, ability, or background.Our sliding-scale pricing model ensures affordability, while our venue rentals and instrument donation programs extend our community impact. With a diverse team reflecting our student population, we combine decades of collective experience in music education and community engagement to foster creativity and connection through music.
Services
Private Lessons
Group Classes
Ensemble Programs
Music Outreach
Summer Camps
Venue Rentals
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We offer sliding-scale music lessons for financial accessibility
- Our outreach programs serve Oregon's underserved rural and urban areas
- Over 30 experienced part-time music instructors on staff
- Culturally-responsive programming for immigrant youth available
- Recognized eight times as a top 50 after-school arts program
What people say
Inclusive programs
Dedicated instructors
Community-focused
Affordable pricing
Life-changing opportunities
Services
Private Music Lessons
Personalized music instruction from experienced educators in multiple instruments and vocal training. Available in English and Spanish for all skill levels. Our teachers combine technical expertise with creative teaching methods to develop musical proficiency and appreciation.
Community Outreach Programs
On-site music classes and after-school programs in Portland's urban areas. Culturally-responsive curriculum for immigrant youth and mobile music education reaching Oregon's rural communities. Designed to remove socioeconomic and geographic barriers to music education.
Summer Music Camps
Full-day and half-day camps for ages 5-17 with diverse musical experiences. Programs include instrument instruction, ensemble playing, and performance opportunities. Staffed by professional musicians and educators specializing in youth development through music.
Concert Venue Rentals
ADA-accessible venue with flexible rental rates for performances, rehearsals, and community events. Capacity 150 standing or 65 seated. Includes sound equipment, lighting, and technical support options. Prioritizes community-focused music and arts events.
Group Music Classes
Dynamic group instruction in various musical styles and instruments. Bilingual and intergenerational options available. Classes include early childhood music, community jam sessions, and specialized workshops for different age groups and experience levels.
People
Megan Moran
Acting Executive Director
Megan has served in multiple roles at Ethos Music Center Music Center since 2007, including AmeriCorps music facilitator and program director. A professional violinist, she performs with regional orchestras and jazz ensembles while leading rural outreach initiatives.
Alberto Rincon-Pardo
Admissions Coordinator
Alberto manages admissions, volunteer coordination, and marketing. A vocal performance graduate, he brings classical, jazz, and pop expertise to Ethos Music Center Music Center while engaging in musical improv and community outreach activities.
Cada Thorsen
Finance Specialist
Cada handles financial and operational tasks while studying accounting. With a decade of Ethos Music Center Music Center community involvement, she contributes administrative expertise and maintains strong ties to the organization's mission.
Liz Harper
Admissions Manager
Liz combines music education expertise with community engagement. A Portland State University graduate, they manage front desk operations and teach vocal lessons while actively participating in Portland's music scene.
Fyre Killsright
Instrument Manager
Fyre oversees instrument maintenance and facilities. A self-taught pianist with experience in Portland's music scene, they direct summer camps and teach ukulele while pursuing interests in drone flying and circus arts.
Questions
What music lesson options are available?
We offer private lessons in multiple instruments, group classes for various skill levels, ensemble programs, and summer camps for ages 5-17.
Do you provide financial assistance?
Yes, we use a sliding-scale pricing model and offer scholarship programs through community partnerships to ensure accessibility for all students.
How can I volunteer with Ethos Music Center Music Center?
Complete our general volunteer interest form or apply specifically for summer camp volunteering. We welcome assistance in teaching, administrative support, and event coordination.
Can I donate musical instruments?
Yes, we accept instrument donations to support our programs. Contact us directly to discuss current equipment needs and donation logistics.
Is your venue available for rent?
Our concert venue rents on a sliding scale from $55-$130/hr. Includes sound equipment and technical support options for community-focused music events.
What outreach programs do you offer?
We provide on-site school programs, rural outreach initiatives, culturally-responsive classes for immigrant youth, and community workshops across Oregon.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Jed C.
Sep 10, 2020
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Ethos is an important arts education resource. Sliding scale lessons ensure that programs are affordable for all families. I highly recommend Ethos for music instruction and summer camps! The instructors are exceptional.
Max H.
Feb 01, 2020
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Wonderful music teachers, friendly and helpful! They really care about kids getting started and having fun loving making music. Instrument rentals and group/ private lessons are very affordable. Summer camp is really a fun way for kids to try out new kinds of music, different instruments, even singing, all while making new friends. Very highly recommend Ethos!
Davasate Phelps
Dec 11, 2019
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It's a really good place to go send your children and force them to play music. Plus the people who work there are extremely nice and easy to work with.
Cheyenne Terbrueggen
Oct 28, 2019
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The talented teachers here okay multiple instruments each. This helped my child, a beginner, find a band instrument she loved-knowing she could change instruments if needed, as she found one that suited her.
