The Centre for Musical Arts (CMA) Dubai’s first Emirati-run music centre, is celebrating its 20th anniversary and preparing for a new chapter in its leadership.
Founded in 2006 by Emirati musician and educator,Tala Badri, CMA has grown from a community-focused music school into an established part of the UAE’s music education landscape. More than 10,000 students have participated in programmes delivered through CMA, its partner schools, ensembles, workshops and events over the past two decades.
CMA currently supports music programmes in 22 schools across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Over its 20-year history, it has collaborated with more than 50 schools, as well as the UAE Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Culture and Youth, the National Experts Programme, and Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.
“CMA began with a belief that everyone should have access to quality music education,” said Badri. “I am immensely proud of what we have built, the community around it and the thousands of young people whose musical journeys we have been privileged to be part of.”
CMA provides lessons across all orchestral instruments, as well as rock and pop, singing, musical theatre and oud. Its programme of ensembles includes wind and string ensembles, rock bands and Glee, giving students opportunities to learn, rehearse and perform together.
CMA’s ensembles have performed locally, regionally and internationally. Its Senior String Ensemble performed for the then Prince Charles and Camilla as part of the UK in UAE programme, while the Senior Wind Ensemble has performed and participated in workshops at Walt Disney World and Full Sail University in Florida.
Other engagements have included a residency with Hughina Naylor in Abu Dhabi, followed by a performance at New York University Abu Dhabi, as well as performances at the Etihad Museum, DIFC Art Nights, Sikka Art and Design Festival, Market Outside the Box and several Emaar destinations. CMA has also hosted a visit from composer Hans Zimmer.
Throughout its history, CMA has worked with organisations including the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, ABRSM, Trinity College London, Rockschool, the British Council, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Welsh National Orchestra, New York University Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation.
It has also supported community and educational initiatives with Green Gecko Project, TEDx Dubai and Ajman, Female Fusion Network, and the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs through startAD.
A new leadership chapter
As CMA reaches its 20-year milestone, Badri is also taking on a new professional role as Director of Learning and Engagement at the UAE National Orchestra. Over the coming months, she will gradually step away from CMA’s day-to-day operations while remaining involved in its strategic direction and future development.
Brian Cunningham, who has worked with CMA since 2008 and previously served as Director of Teaching and Learning, will take on the role of Executive Director and CEO. He will be supported by a restructured management team.
A musician, educator and trained clarinettist, Cunningham has played an important role in developing CMA’s teaching programmes, ensembles and wider music education work.
“Building an organisation should ultimately mean building something that can grow beyond its founder, with a strong team, a shared purpose and the ability to evolve,” said Badri. “I am not leaving CMA. It will always remain part of who I am and what I have built. I am excited about what lies ahead for the UAE National Orchestra, for CMA and, after 20 years of building, for me too.”
Cunningham said his priority would be to build on CMA’s foundations while ensuring its original purpose and values remain at the heart of the organisation.
“Tala’s vision, determination and commitment to music education have shaped CMA over the past 20 years,” he said. “My role is to protect that legacy while helping the organisation continue to develop, reach new communities and create meaningful opportunities for musicians of all ages.
“This anniversary gives us an opportunity to recognise everyone who has been part of CMA’s story, from our students, families and teachers to our schools, partners and wider community. It is also the starting point for what we want to build next.”
CMA plans to mark the anniversary through a year-long programme celebrating its history, people and contribution to music education in the UAE. This will include performances, community activities and further opportunities for its ensembles to perform within the UAE and internationally.
