The new facility is smaller, but utilizes space more efficiently with sound-proof classrooms that incorporate space for spectators, East Lansing resident Barbara Lowes said.

Lowes has three children who attend the music school.

“(The new building) is very open and I think music is key to education,” Lowes said. “(The program has) brought out confidence in a comfortable setting.”

Children’s Choir Director Katie Anderson said she believes the new space, designed by acoustical engineers, will provide a more efficient and educational environment.

“Everything is so fresh and new,” Children’s Choir Director Katie Anderson said.

Amanda Darche, the school’s grant writer and communication coordinator, said she hopes the school’s proximity to the university will allow new opportunities and collaborations between their younger community students and music education majors. CMS now is on a bus route, which Darche hopes will bring in more participation from the East Lansing community as well.

“It’s wonderful to be in a new, creative space,” Darche said.

According to music therapist Cindy Edgerton, students struggled to commute to the old location, but the new school is closer to students on campus.

“This will unite us all, and we will all be together in one location,” Edgerton said.

Music education senior Mike Clemente has worked with CMS at its previous location. Playing the trumpet, he has practiced and performed with younger students attending the school.

Clemente said he believes younger undergraduate students who do not have cars or the means of commuting off campus now can access CMS more easily.

“(The new location) makes it more accessible. I think having the location helps out younger undergrads involved with (CMS),” Clemente said.

The school will host an open house from 3-5 p.m. on Jan. 20.