Uniquely positioned at the intersection of arts, education, and social justice, Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) offers after-school instruction in music, dance, theater, musical theater, and media & design to children ages 2-18. Through interdisciplinary arts training that celebrates the rich complexity of their community, we empower youth to reach their full potential while continuing to ensure that children of all socio-economic levels have access to the transformational power of the arts. HSA trains the creative thinkers and global citizens of tomorrow, while enriching and strengthening their connection to the community.
Programs: HSA’s Music curriculum includes all orchestral instruments, as well as saxophone, piano, organ, guitar, African and Latin percussion, and voice. Its philosophy is to prepare each student to be a proficient performer and reader of Western music as well as of the various musical styles of the African Diaspora. HSA’s Musical Theater program introduces the fundamentals of musical theater to young actors, and provides the opportunity to participate in a full-scale production at the end of each academic year.
HSA Theater utilizes a traditional arts conservatory approach to prepare its students for the demands of professional application, along with providing a general understanding and appreciation of theater. Students ages 3-18 of all levels of interest are taught by working professionals who bring their real world experience to every class.
HSA Dance offers courses that develop students’ physicality, creativity, technical ability, and performance skills. Classes are available for dancers of all levels from beginner to advanced; students ages 8 and up are assessed prior to placement into a ballet or contemporary class. All ballet classes follow the American Ballet Theatre’s National Curriculum of the classical ballet technique.
The HSA Media & Design curriculum guides students as they hone their abilities and foster a serious understanding of the artistic process. The department believes in an organic creative process that develops and focuses the artistic energy of students. Students are taught by active art professionals, who bring their real world experience to every class. Particular emphasis has been placed recently on 21st century arts careers, new media, and digital arts courses which provide the necessary building blocks to navigate the evolving digital landscape.
Ages: 2-18 years
Costs: $900 - $1200 Financial aid is available for those in need.
