The Christchurch School of Music was established in 1955 by Robert Perks MBE, to provide an education in instrumental music for primary school students. Since then the School has extended its activities to include students of all ages and choral groups. The aims of the School are:

• to give tuition in practical and theoretical music skills, and to provide opportunities for the study, practice, and performance of a wide range of music
• to present concerts and recitals of instrumental and choral music, either alone or in co-operation with others. All students are expected to take part in group performances.

CSM is currently operating out of Rangi Ruru and Christchurch Boy's High Schools. These venues are where most lessons and rehearsals take place. However CSM also provides lessons over the Internet for remote students and provides comprehensive music education to participating primary schools via its Outreach Music Service programme.

There are over 80 part-time teaching staff. The office and library employs two full-time and one part-time staff. The School is governed by a Council, comprising mainly elected parents and staff representatives.

Tutition costs are kept more affordable with parents helping with various tasks such as setting up for orchestra rehearsals, distributing and collecting music .Parents play an important role in the CSM and are always welcome to attend rehearsals and learn alongside their children. The CSM takes great pride in creating a strong family culture.