HSA Calendar 2012-2013 - The Harlem School of the Arts

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212.926.4100 www.hsanyc.org 

the Harlem 

School 

of the Arts 

2012-2013

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table of contents 

5 letter from ceo 

x 

Section Type 

6 About HSA 

8 Overview: hsa programs 

10 early childhood program 

12 Music 

18 dance 

24 theatre 

28 VISUAL ARTS 

30 Musical theatre program new! 

34 hsa prep 

38 adult classes 

40 space rentals 

43 FAq’s 

44 HSA Timeline 

46 our supporters 

48 OUR FACULTY 

My teachers at the Harlem School of the Arts have helped me learn a lot more 

“about my favorite music...Jazz! –Matthew Whitaker, 11 year old musician 

50 administration, board & advisory council 

54 policies & Procedures

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HSA Calendar 2012-2013 

Fall 2012 

5 


July 15 

Deadline for Fall Financial Aid applications 

August 6 & 7 

Dance Placement Ages 7-18 

August 15 

First Payment Due for Fall 2012 

September 8 

Parent Orientation & Welcome 

September 15 

Fall Term Commences 

October 8 & 9 

Columbus Day Observed, No Classes 

November 5-10 

Parent Observation Week 

November 15 

Spring 2013 Financial Aid Application Deadline 

November 21-25 

Thanksgiving Break, No Classes 

December 1 

Spring Term Registration Begins 

December 17-January 4 

Winter Break, No Classes 

January 19-21 

Martin Luther King Jr. Observed, No Classes 

February 1 

Fall Term Ends 

Spring 2013 

February 2 

Spring Term Commences 

February 16-22 

Mid-Winter Recess, No Classes 

March 25-April 2 

Spring Recess, No Classes 

April 8-13 

Parent Observation Week 

April 20 

Founder’s Day & Open House for 2013-14 

May 7-10 

HSA Prep Auditions for 2013-14 

May 13 

Early 2013-14 Registration - Returning Students Only 

Welcome! 

I am thrilled you have chosen the Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) - New York City’s premier community arts 

institution that for nearly a half century has transformed the lives of tens of thousands of young people. It is 

our belief that exposure to and training in the arts stimulates the whole child, strengthens the family and gives 

pride of ownership to a community. 

HSA’s reputation for artistic rigor and excellence attracts families from all five New York City boroughs, 

Westchester County, New Jersey and Connecticut. HSA stands unique among the major arts institutions in 

New York City, as the sole provider of quality arts education in 5 disciplines - Music, Dance, Theatre, Visual 

Arts, and newly added, Musical Theatre all under one roof. Our award-winning 37,000 square foot facility is 

specifically designed for multi-discipline art instruction, performance and exhibition. 

Whether you are just beginning to explore the world as a curious toddler or would like to learn the piano as an 

inspired adult, we invite you to discover the discipline that inspires you most or simply try them all! As you read 

through our catalog, we hope you notice there is something for every age and ability at HSA: 

• Early Childhood Classes for children ages 2-3 and their parents or caregivers. 

• HSA Children’s program, our most welcoming and inclusive after-school program, offers any student 

ages 4-18 a wide variety of arts enrichment classes to choose from, including group classes and 

individual private lessons for all skill levels without an audition. 

• HSA Prep, our pre-professional scholarship program offers young aspiring artists ages 12-17 the 

opportunity for advanced study. 

• Adult Classes & Courses enable adults to discover the joy of the arts with drop-in dance and fitness 

classes, 4-8 week courses in art or theatre, or learn to play that instrument you always wanted to master 

with a weekly private music lesson. 

Our environment teaches discipline, stimulates creativity, builds self-confidence and adds a dimension of 

beauty to our students’ lives, empowering them to become the creative thinkers and innovative leaders of 

tomorrow. 

Welcome to the Harlem School of the Arts, the best kept secret in New York City! We hope you will join our 

family and make HSA the place where you achieve your dreams. 

May 25-27 

Memorial Day Observed, No Classes 

June 1 

2013-2014 Registration - New Students 

Sincerely, 

June 11 

Spring Term Ends 

For a complete listing of our public events and 

performances visit www.HSAnyc.org 

Yvette L. Campbell 

President and CEO 

Photo: Lisa Hancock Photography

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HSA Founder Dorothy Maynor 

1910 - 1996 

After working with architect Ulrich Franzen for two 

years to plan a space that allowed the full flowering 

of the HSA curriculum, in May of 1977 the School 

opened a state of the art 37,000 square foot 

award-winning facility nestled at the base of historic 

Hamilton Heights. 

After Maynor stepped down as the director of the 

school in 1979, she was succeeded by another 

charismatic, nationally acclaimed, pioneering 

artist, the mezzo-soprano Betty Allen. Under her 

leadership the School continued to excel in four 

program areas: dance, music, visual arts and 

theatre. Allen, like Maynor, maintained the highest 

standards, continuing to attract world-class faculty, 

hosting master classes, and arranging events that 

brought national and international recognition. 

Today, HSA stands unique among community arts 

institutions in New York City, as the sole provider 

of arts education, in five disciplines (music, dance, 

theatre, visual arts, and musical theatre), under one 

roof. From its humble beginnings in the basement 

of St. James Presbyterian Church next door, what 

started with 20 children taking piano lessons has 

blossomed into an extraordinary cultural institution, 

serving more than 50,000 students over the last 48 

years. 

HSA Leads to Academic Success 

Our founder believed that any child exposed to 

a full range of arts programs would benefit in 

emotional and intellectual growth. Today, HSA 

proudly stands by the research that involvement 

in the arts is associated with academic success 

in math, reading, critical thinking, and verbal skills. 

Focused study in the arts teaches discipline, builds 

self confidence, stimulates creativity, essential traits 

for innovative and analytical leaders of tomorrow. 

Each day HSA is proud to see these values and 

skills exhibited within our students. Exposure to 

the arts is an indispensable component in the life 

of every child and HSA is committed to ensuring 

access for all. 

About HSA 

about HSA 

The Harlem School of the Arts transforms the lives of young 

people through the arts. 

Mission 

The Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) enriches the 

lives of young people and their families through 

world-class training in and exposure to the arts. 

HSA offers its students the freedom to find and 

develop the artist and citizen within themselves in 

an environment that emphasizes rigorous training, 

stimulates creativity, builds self-confidence, and 

adds a dimension of beauty to their lives. HSA 

accomplishes this through on-site instruction, 

partnerships with NYC schools, community 

performances and family programming, and 

providing workspace for aspiring artists. HSA 

stands apart among the premier arts institutions in 

New York City, as the sole provider of quality arts 

education in 5 disciplines - music, dance, theatre, 

visual arts and musical theatre. 

Vision 

We envision a world where every child in the 

greater NYC area has access to a quality arts 

education empowering them to become the 

creative thinkers and innovative leaders of 

tomorrow. 

History 

In 1964, internationally acclaimed concert soprano 

Dorothy Maynor brought a gift to Harlem-her 

fervent belief that world-class training in the arts 

stimulates the child, strengthens the family and 

gives pride of ownership to a community. She came 

to Harlem at a time when the community suffered 

severe physical blight, high levels of poverty 

and few cultural resources for its young people. 

From toddlers to adults, the students who came 

through the door developed an invaluable sense of 

purpose and focus, whether or not they pursued 

professional training in the arts. 

Maynor’s stellar reputation enabled her to persuade 

the world’s greatest artists to perform in support 

of the School: Leonard Bernstein, Leontyne Price, 

Vladimir Horowitz, Andre Watts, Agnes de Mille 

and others were personally involved. Through the 

School, she organized orchestras and choruses 

that performed all over the country. Additionally, she 

established high quality recitals showcasing the 

work of her students, winning the School national 

and international praise. 

President Emeritus Betty Allen 

1927 - 2009

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overview 

Programs at HSA 

Early Childhood Program 

HSA Children’s Program 

PROGRAMS AT HSA 

Early Childhood Program (Ages 2-3) 

For our youngest students, HSA will offer for the 

first time ever early childhood classes, guided 

by expert faculty trained in providing very young 

children with an introduction to the arts. Youngsters 

will experience the joy of movement in Baby Samba, 

the use of color and materials in Start with Art, and 

the world of music in Musical Discovery. 

HSA Children’s Program (Ages 4-18) 

HSA’s Children’s Program is out most inclusive 

program offering high caliber, affordable arts 

training in music, dance, theatre, visual arts and 

musical theatre. Each department offers private 

lessons and group classes at the introductory, 

intermediate and advanced levels of training. All 

students are welcome regardless of previous 

instruction. 

HSA Educational Outreach 

HSA’s Educational Outreach program places 

experienced teaching artists in New York 

City schools, community centers, housing 

developments, nursing homes, etc. in all five 

boroughs; with a focus on wanting to customize 

arts education and the multicultural arts to its 

community needs. 

HSA assists the host institution in developing 

its arts program with an emphasis on excellence 

in arts training. We work with school principals 

and administrators, to develop and implement 

programming both in-school and after-school in all 

four disciplines that support school curricula and 

align with State Learning Standards as well as the 

NYCDOE Blueprint for Teaching and Learning in 

the Arts. 

HSA Prep (Ages 12-18) 

HSA Prep is a pre-professional scholarship 

program providing middle school and high school 

students with advanced level arts training, 

individual mentoring and high school/college 

application support, and opportunities to engage 

with professional artists of the highest caliber. 

HSA Prep has two main goals: (1) to support 

robust and well-rounded artistic proficiency; and 

(2) to position students to enter secondary and 

post-secondary schools of the highest caliber, 

including those providing ongoing, high-quality 

training in the arts. Selection for the HSA Prep 

program is by audition only. To apply, please visit 

www.hsanyc.org/prep.php. 

Summer Programs 

HSA offers the following summer programs for 

students ages 4 to 18: 

ARTScape Summer Camp (ages 4-11) 

Three themed two-week sessions exploring music, 

dance, theatre, and the visual arts all in one exciting 

camp experience 

TeenARTS Summer Intensive (ages 12-18) 

A more in-depth focus and exploration of the five 

disciplines, culminating in a student-produced 

production. 

Adult Classes 

A variety of classes are available to adults ages 18 

& over, ranging from private piano lessons to fun 

and exciting dance classes in ballet, modern, and 

Zumba. There is something for students of all ages 

to enjoy. 

Programs Overview 

HSA Educational Outreach 

HSA Prep 

Summer Programs 

Adult Classes 

HSA Educational Outreach seeks to build skills 

in the arts, enhance literacy, foster self-discipline, 

increase student interest in learning, and identify 

and develop talent. For more information about our 

educational outreach programs, please visit 

www.hsanyc.org/aie_programs.php.

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Section Type 

early childhood program 

The Early Childhood Program at HSA offers young children ages 2-3 exposure all of 

the arts. The program is designed to strengthen our youngest artists’ auditory, speech, 

visual, and creative capabilities. An adult is required to participate with each child. 

Baby Samba 

Explore music, dance and art of the Brazilian culture 

with your child. Afro-Brazilian samba will make your 

little one dance to the beat of the drum. 

Start with Art 

This class is an introduction into the world of visual 

arts. Creative thinking is encouraged in a safe 

environment by using water-based markers, nontoxic 

paints, and collage techniques. 

The Early Actor 

This class is especially designed for our youngest 

performers to explore songs, movement, and 

storytelling. The class is filled with tall-tales, fables, 

myths, legends and poetry. Participants will learn 

how to express themselves verbally and physically, 

and are sure to be engaged from start to finish. 

Tiny Moves 

This dance offering takes advantage of a child’s 

natural ability to express themselves through 

movement. Fun dance exercises explore creativity, 

and the class is a wonderful way of introducing the 

arts to the whole family. 

World of Music Discovery 

Experience the world of music with your child along 

with the care and guidance of an expert music 

teacher, trained in working with young music lovers. 

You and your child will experience songs and 

movements to help develop music appreciation, 

while stimulating motor and auditory skills. 

“I have fun hearing the sound of the drums! -Aden Parrish, 6 year old musician

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music 

Section Type 

Under the leadership of violist and music educator, Judith Insell, whose credits range 

from performing with major symphonies, Broadway shows, jazz masters and pop music 

icons, the Music Department nurtures the desire within each student to express their 

emotional and intellectual powers, through the development of musical techniques and 

listening skills. 

HSA’s Music Department offers a broad curriculum, including instruments of the 

orchestra, piano, guitar, percussion, voice, and ensemble classes. The philosophy of 

the Music Department is to prepare each individual to be a proficient musician, while 

fostering their creative spirit. With the support of our masterful teachers, each student 

will be able to focus on bringing their artistry to light. 

New! Meet the Instrument 

Try any instrument in a private lesson setting. If you choose to continue your lessons after the 

trial period, the fees paid for the introductory lessons will be credited toward your yearly tuition. 

Five 30 Minute Lessons $200 

private lessons 

About the Department 

Private Lessons 

Private Lessons are at the core of our music curriculum, enabling the student to be 

exposed to the technique and musicianship of the HSA instructors committed to 

teaching, while retaining active performing careers. In addition to the weekly lesson, 

departmental recitals are presented throughout the year, providing an environment for 

players of all levels to perform for friends, family, and the community. 

Group Classes 

Individual lessons available in: 

Ensembles 

HSA Prep Music 

see page 35 

WOODWINDS 

Flute 

Oboe 

Clarinet 

Bassoon 

Saxophone 

BRASS 

Trumpet 

Trombone 

French Horn 

Tuba/Euphonium 

STRINGS 

Violin 

Viola 

Cello 

Double Bass 

Acoustic Guitar 

Electric Guitar 

Electric Bass 

Piano 

Voice 

Percussion

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group classes + Ensembles 

The ensemble program is an integral part of the HSA music curriculum. Group playing 

and singing refines individual skills, offers the joy of creating music with others, and 

encourages a cooperative work ethic. All intermediate and advanced students are 

encouraged to participate in at least one of HSA’s music ensembles. Some ensembles 

will require an assessment for placement. 

Introduction to Musical Instruments 

Musical Explorations 

Ages 4-6 

Utilizing Recorders as a primary instrument, the 

students are exposed to early childhood music 

methods, such as Orff & Kodaly. This preparatory 

course is ideal for children wishing to progress to 

any instrument or voice class. 

Intro to Keyboard 

Ages 4 & Up 

This course encourages groups of young students 

to discover music in a fun-filled atmosphere. Basic 

hand position, fingering and sight reading are 

covered. This class is the perfect foundation for 

private piano instruction. 

Group Violin for Beginners 

Ages 4-6 

Focus on basic skills of violin technique in a funfilled 

atmosphere. Students develop posture, hand 

position & listening skills, while learning to play in a 

group setting. This class is the perfect foundation 

for private violin instruction. 

African and Latin Percussion 

Ages 4 & Up 

The concentrated areas of study are percussion 

hand patterns and rhythmic structures from West 

Africa, Cuba and the Caribbean Islands. 

instrumental Ensembles 

Group Violin 

Ages 7 & Up 

Focus on skills of violin technique in a fun-filled 

atmosphere. Students will continue to develop 

posture, hand position & listening skills, while 

learning to play in a group setting. This class is the 

perfect supplement to private violin instruction. 

Guitar Ensemble 

Ages 7 & Up 

Group classes include instruction in the techniques 

of classical, flamenco, folk and jazz guitar styles 

and explore a variety of traditional, folk and 

contemporary music literature. 

Chamber Music 

Assessment Required for Participation 

Ensembles ranging from piano trios, brass quintets, 

and jazz combos are arranged each semester for 

students. Chamber music groups meet weekly for 

coaching with a HSA faculty member. Rehearsals 

for special events and touring are required. 

HSA Youth Orchestra 


This class provides intermediate and advanced 

students with an introduction to playing in an 

orchestra. Students utilize sight-reading skills while 

learning to follow a conductor. Rehearsals for 

special events and performances are required. 

Harlem Rock Band 


Guitarists, bassists, pianists, singers, and 

percussionists are guided to play rock music under 

an expert instructor. Students will gain ensemble 

skills and learn both classic and contemporary rock 

songs, as well as hip hop and r&b. Rehearsals, 

touring, and outside performances are required. 

HSA Jazz Band 


This ensemble provides professional training 

in performance and improvisation techniques. 

Students will become familiar with Jazz standards 

as well as Latin/Jazz idioms. Rehearsals, touring 

and outside performances are required. 

“Wagner in Harlem” Ensemble 


This class provides intermediate and advanced 

students with an introduction to playing the 

orchestral accompaniment to Richard Wagner’s 

operas. Students will be exposed to music that 

would normally be introduced on a college or 

conservatory level, thus preparing them for 

advanced placement in their secondary education. 

Rehearsals for special events, touring and 

attendance at outside performances are required. 

Wind & Brass Ensemble 


This class introduces intermediate and advanced 

wind players to the experience of playing in a 

larger ensemble; utilize sight-reading skills and 

musicianship to learn how to interact with fellow 

musicians. This course also reviews music that is 

related to the HSA Youth Orchestra. Rehearsals for 

special events, touring and attendance at outside 

performances are required. 

Flute Choir 


This class introduces intermediate and advanced 

flute students to the experience of playing in a flute 

ensemble. Students utilize sight-reading skills and 

musicianship to learn how to interact with fellow 

musicians in a chamber music setting. Additionally, 

students will gain the experience of playing the 

bass flute, alto flute and piccolo. Rehearsals, 

touring and outside performances are required. 

Advanced Guitar Class & Workshop 


Students are exposed to the masterworks of guitar 

literature. Contemporary ensemble music in jazz 

and pop styles is also studied. Students in this 

class are members of the HSA Guitar Ensemble. 

Open to any student who is taking at least one 

course in dance, music, theatre or visual arts; 

Registration fee of $175. 

Music 

Children’s Choir Director, Robert Hughes with students of the Musical Theatre Workshop.

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vocal Ensembles 


Beginning Teen Chorus 

Ages 12-15 

Teen Chorus introduces choral singing to the 

teenager with little or no prior experience. The 

class provides a foundation in vocal technique and 

ensemble performance. 

Children’s Choir 

Ages 4-11 

A training ensemble with songs selected from 

traditional vocal repertoire, as well as the popular 

genres of gospel, spiritual, folk and contemporary 

songs. Rehearsals for special events, touring and 

attendance at outside performances are required. 

The Dorothy Maynor Singers 


For intermediate and advanced vocal students, 

the repertoire for this group explores a wide range 

of choral music including Classical, Gospel, 

Spirituals, Folk and Contemporary. Rehearsal for 

special events, touring and outside performances 

is required. 

Open to any student who is taking at least one 

course in dance, music, theatre or visual arts; 

Registration fee of $175. 

Music 

theory | composition | Technology 

Music Theory & Compositional Studies 

In our theory classes, students can focus on 

learning notes and scales, as well as reading 

rhythms, leaving more time in their lessons to focus 

on fingering, embouchure and tone production. 

Music Theory I: Basic Elements of Music 

Music Theory II: Integration of Complex 

Musical Structures 

Music Theory III: complex Musical Analysis 

Music Theory IV: 20 th & 21 st Century Innovations 

Music Technology + Sound Design 

Students explore the world of creative sound 

composition through the guidance of an 

experienced composition instructor. The class 

utilizes the creation of tracks, MIDI, synthesis, 

sampling, and simple sequencing. 

Music Appreciation 

This introductory course is designed to expose 

the course participants to the basic structures 

of “Western European Classical” music, while 

exploring major historical periods and the works 

of key composers within the “Classical” music 

tradition. 

Jazz Appreciation 

This introductory course is designed to expose the 

course participants to the basic structures of “Jazz” 

music, while exploring major historical periods and 

the works of key composers within the “Jazz” music 

tradition.

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dance 

Section Type 

Under the leadership of Aubrey Lynch II, former dancer with Alvin Ailey American Dance 

Theater and original cast member and Associate Producer of Disney’s The Lion King, 

the HSA dance program seeks to nurture talent through dance, while strengthening 

the students’ relationship to their inner self, fellow students, and to their community. 

They learn respect, discipline, and teamwork. Through dance rigorous training and 

discipline, HSA strives to inspire each artist to become a citizen of the world in addition 

to developing as a dancer. Whether a student wants to become a dancer or simply 

wants to enjoy dance, the HSA Dance Program guides students in discipline, hope, and 

purpose, stressing the importance of punctuality, presentation, and etiquette. With these 

skills, students and their families show the community by example what it means to strive 

for excellence and their unlimited and unique potential. 

“Dance is the ultimate in self expression,” Alvin Ailey, Legendary Dance Choreographer. The 

HSA Dance Program inspires its students, Harlem, and the world to express themselves in 

ways that grow all of our communities. 

dance PROGRAMS + CURRICULUM 

HSA offers a variety of ways for young dancers ages 2-18 to experience the artistry and joy of dance. For our 

youngest dancers ages 2-6, our Young Dancer Program requires no placement and classes are offered on 

a first come, first serve basis. For ages 2-6, we recommend 1-2 classes per week. As students grow both 

in maturity and technique, you can choose a pre-professional track of training or simply continue to select 

classes appropriate for their age that interest your child. 

The pre-professional track (Pre-Prep, Boys, Pre-Professional, and Prep Programs) requires more weekly 

dance classes in order to further develop as a serious dancer training to perform on stage. If your child is 

interested in simply enjoying dance for the enriching aspect physical activity brings to their lives, we invite 

you to try any one of our classes offered for their age group through our Dance Enrichment Program. 


Dance Programs 

Dance Tracks 

Group Classes 

HSA Prep Dance 

see page 36 

HSA Dance Program Progression by Age 

Ages 2-3 Ages 4-6 Ages 7-8 Ages 9-11 Ages 12-14 Ages 15-17 

Young Dancer 

(1 class) 

Young Dancer 

(1-2 classes) 

Pre-Prep 

(3 classes) 

Boys Program 

(3 classes) 

Dance 

Enrichment 

(1-3 classes) 

Pre-Prep 

(4 classes) 

Boys Program 

(4 classes) 

Dance 

Enrichment 

(1-4 classes) 

HSA Prep 

(8 classes) 

Boys Program 

(4-5 classes) 

Pre-Professional 

(4-5 classes) 

Dance 

Enrichment 

(1-5 classes) 

HSA Prep 

(8 classes) 

Boys Program 

(5-8 classes) 

Pre-Professional 

(5-8 classes) 

Dance 

Enrichment 

(1-8 classes) 

By Audition Only

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• HSA Young Dancer Program (Ages 2-6) 

Dance is a powerful way to introduce young 

children to a life of discipline and success. HSA 

dance classes for children ages 2-6 enable an 

awareness of their anatomy, natural athleticism, 

and motor skills. These classes also inspire 

creativity and imagination. One to two classes are 

suggested for this age group. 

Ages 2-3 

One class a week at parent’s discretion 

Ages 4-6 

One to two classes a week at parent’s discretion 

• Pre-Prep Dance Program (Ages 7-11) 

As a pre-cursor to our HSA Prep Dance program, 

for students who exhibit exceptional potential, 

with a passion to experience the self-expressive 

and powerful world of dance. Three or more 

classes a week as part of an assigned curriculum. 

Performance opportunities including in-studio 

showings and end-of-year dance concert. 

Ages 7-9 (3 classes per week) 

Two ballet (2); and 

One modern, tap, African, hip-hop, or jazz (1) 

Optional repertory rehearsals/workshops 

Ages 7-9 (4 classes per week) 

Three ballet (3); and 

One modern, tap, African, hip-hop, or jazz (1) 

Optional repertory rehearsals/workshops 

By invitation or placement only! 

 

• NEW! Boys Program (Ages 7-17) 

Take advantage of your son’s natural sense of 

dynamic movement and athleticism. This is a 

curriculum of dance classes designed specifically 

for boys and their competitive nature. Three (3) 

or more classes a week are required as part of an 

assigned curriculum, including hip-hop, tap and 

African AND at least one boy’s ballet class highly 

recommended. This program includes special 

showings and performances throughout the year 

and a final end-of-year dance concert. Limited 

scholarships are available. 

• Pre-Professional Program (Ages 12-17) 

• This program offers students a solid foundation 

in dance technique by providing more rigorous 

training than our Dance Enrichment Program. For 

students, who are not quite ready, but aspire to the 

HSA Prep Dance Program and show exceptional 

potential. Requires five (5) or more classes 

per week as part of an assigned curriculum 

designed specifically for your child. Performance 

opportunities including on-site showings and endof-year 

dance concert. 

Ages 12-14 (5 classes) 

Three ballet (3); One modern (1) 

One Jazz, tap, hip-hop, or African (1) 

Required repertory rehearsals/workshops 

Ages 14-18 (8 classes) 

Four ballet (4); Two modern (2) 

One Jazz or one tap (1) 

One African, hip-hop, or one tap (1) 

Required repertory rehearsals/workshops 

 

• HSA Prep - Dance Program (Ages 12-17) 

By audition only! 

• HSA’s fully funded scholarship program for 

our most talented dancers with the greatest 

potential for a career in dance. This intensive 

dance training program is designed for those 

students exhibiting the highest level of ability, 

potential and motivation. Up to eight (8) classes 

a week with additional repertory workshops, 

guest artists master classes, performing 

opportunities, and field trips. Performance 

opportunities include on-site showings, select 

off-site performances, and end-of-year dance 

concert. 

8 classes per week: 

Four ballet (4) 

Two modern (2) 

One Jazz or one hip-hop 

One African or one hip-hop 

Two 2-hour Repertory rehearsals 

• HSA Dance Enrichment Program 

• This is our most flexible program for dance 

students ages 7-18 and a way to discover the 

world of dance regardless of skill level. Students 

and their families may choose dance classes 

individually with no minimum class requirement. 

No audition is necessary, however all students 

ages 7 and up interested in ballet or modern 

must take a placement class each semester. 

No prior dance experience is needed. Students 

participate in a final dance concert with their 

class at the end of the year. 

• Please note: HSA reserves the right to reassign 

a class for any student based on age and/or 

ability. 

• 

• Age Groupings 

• Ages 2-6 are offered fun creative movement 

classes designed and structured to prepare 

children to enter the Pre-Prep, Prep, and Pre- 

Professional Programs. 

• 

• Ages 7-17 are grouped by age and ability and 

offered highly structured classes designed to 

prepare students for a real future in dance. 

These groups will continue to evolve as the 

program grows. 

Level 1 Ages 7-8 




• Dance Placement 

• Classes for students 2-6 are offered on a 

first come, first serve basis. All students ages 

7-18 must take a dance placement class to 

determine their appropriate levels and classes. 

These classes are held at the beginning of 

each semester. If a student joins the school 

mid-semester, they will be assigned classes to 

take as placement classes and then be placed 

accordingly. All returning students must take 

placement classes. 

• Dance Attire 

• Proper dance attire is required for all classes. 

Additional information regarding dress code and 

conveniently located dancewear stores can be 

downloaded from our website, 

www.HSAnyc.org. 

• 

Class offerings are subject to change. Please 

visit our website for the most up to date class 

descriptions, class schedules, and age and 

level groupings. For further information on 

all programs, please call the Dance Director, 

Aubrey Lynch II at 212-926-4100 ext. 325. 

Dance

22 23 

group classes 


AGES 4-6 

Little Leaps Ages 4-6 

A pre-ballet class that introduces children to music 

and dance and lays the ground work for dance 

technique and training, exploring coordination, 

muscle memory, and musicality. Students are 

introduced to group work and individual creativity 

while learning right from left and the rhythmic 

counting principles of dance. 

Little Leaps I Ages 4-5 

Little Leaps II Ages 5-6 

Nimble Jacks Ages 5-6 

This class series is designed especially for boys 

and their natural sense of athleticism. They develop 

coordination, movement, and tumbling skills with 

music and rhythm. This class is a great way to 

introduce a life of exercise and sports to young 

boys. 

Mini Taps Ages 5-6 

This class explores the world of dance through 

the rhythm of the feet. Kids learn musicality, 

coordination, and the foundation of proper tap 

technique. This is a fun way to spark creativity, 

imagination, and athleticism and will provide the 

foundation of proper tap technique, while teaching 

rhythm and coordination. 

AGES 7-17 

Discover Dance Ages 7-17 

This class is for young people interested in 

dance with no prior training and offers the perfect 

introduction to the variety of dance techniques 

offered at HSA including modern, ballet, African, 

and hip-hop. Dancers complete this series with 

the increased physical knowledge, coordination 

and flexibility necessary for a future in dance, 

gymnastics, or other sports. (No prior dance training 

required. Experienced dancers are welcomed.) 

Discover Dance I Ages 7-11 

Discover Dance II Ages 12-17 

Dynamic Dance for Boys Ages 7-11 

This class series is designed especially for boys to 

develop the kind of discipline, drive, and focus that 

dancers share with professional athletes. Modern, 

ballet, African and Afro-Caribbean techniques 

increase coordination and flexibility necessary for 

a future in dance, gymnastics, or other sports. (No 

prior dance training required) 

Ballet 

Students hoping for a career in dance will have 

many more options available to them if they have 

some ballet training. Any student on the HSA Pre- 

Prep, Prep, and 

Pre-Professional Programs must take at least 

one ballet class a week as part of their assigned 

curriculum. 

Age groupings and levels are subject to change. 

Students are placed in the appropriate level after 

placement classes: 

Ballet Basics 

No prior ballet experience required 

Ballet Basics 1 Ages 7-8 




Ballet Beginner 

Ballet Beginner 1 Ages 7-8 

Ballet Beginner 2 Ages 9-11 

Ballet Intermediate 

Ballet Intermediate 3 Ages 12-14 

Ballet Intermediate 4 Ages 15-17 

Ballet Advanced 

Ballet Advanced 3 Ages 12-14 

Ballet Advanced 4 Ages 15-17 

Boys Ballet (by invitation only) 

Pointe (by invitation only) 

Partnering (by invitation only) 

TAP 

Tap is often a required skill for dancers on 

Broadway. In addition to Tap, at least one ballet and 

modern class is highly recommended for students 

on the Pre-Professional Program. Students in the 

Prep Program will be assigned modern and ballet 

along with their tap classes. 


Tap Beginner 

Tap Beginner 1 Ages 7-8 

Tap Beginner 2 Ages 9-11 

Tap Intermediate 

Tap Intermediate 3 Ages 12-14 

Tap Intermediate 4 Ages 15-17 

MODERN 

Modern dance classes at HSA are based on the 

techniques of Lester Horton, Martha Graham, and 

Jose Limon. Special guest teachers and guest 

choreographers infuse their own modern styles to 

enhance the curriculum. All Modern students who 

are part of the Pre-Prep, Pre-Professional, and Prep 

Programs must take ballet in addition to their modern 

classes. 




Modern Beginner 

Modern Beginner 1 Ages 7-8 

Modern Beginner 2 Ages 9-11 

Modern Intermediate 

Modern Intermediate 2 Ages 9-11 



Modern Advanced 

Modern Advanced 3 Ages 12-14 

Modern Advanced 4 Ages 15-17 

African + Afro-Caribbean 

These classes are based on the gifts of Katherine 

Dunham, Pearl Primus, and other Afro-Caribbean and 

African dance pioneers. Students develop strength, 

aerobic stamina, coordination, flexibility and rhythmic 

awareness while acquiring an understanding of the 

drums, rhythm, and music. These classes feature the 

energy and spirit of live drummers. 


African/Afro-Caribbean Beginner 

A/AC 1 Beginner Ages 7-8 

A/AC 2 Beginner Ages 9-11 

African/Afro-Caribbean Intermediate 

A/AC 3 Intermediate Ages 12-14 

A/AC 4 Intermediate Ages 15-17 

JAZZ 

From classic style of 1940’s musicals to today’s 

So You Think You Can Dance, these classes 

include various jazz styles. Guest teachers and 

choreographers are from, film, television, Broadway, 

and around the world. 


Jazz Beginner 

Jazz Beginner 2 Ages 9-11 

Jazz Beginner 3 Ages 12-14 

Jazz Intermediate 

Jazz Intermediate 3 Ages 12-14 

Jazz Intermediate 4 Ages 15-17 

HIP-HOP 

Seen in music videos, film, and television, the 

popularity of Hip-Hop is always growing. These 

classes are structured and are based on real dance 

philosophy. 




Hip-Hop Beginner 

Hip-Hop Beginner 1 Ages 7-8 

Hip-Hop Beginner 2 Ages 9-11 

Hip-Hop Intermediate 

Hip-Hop Intermediate 3 Ages 12-14 

Hip-Hop Intermediate 4 Ages 15-17 

PERFORMING REPERTORY 

New! HSA Performance Ensemble 

By invitation or audition only! 

Students participating in the Prep, Pre-Prep, Pre- 

Professional and Boys Programs may be selected 

to be a part of the HSA Performance Ensemble. 

These students will perform when HSA is asked to 

participate in presentations and performances all 

over the city. This ensemble will represent our most 

committed students and will requires a commitment of 

two 2-hour repertory rehearsals per week! 

Special Workshops/Guest Artist Master Classes 

Ballet, modern, tap, jazz, hip-hop and African and Afro-Caribbean dance workshops with guest artists 

and choreographers from around the world are offered periodically. These special workshops may at 

times culminate in a studio showing or performance. are offered periodically. These special workshops 

may culminate in studio showings or performances. 

Dance

6 


Theatre 

Under the direction of Theatre Director, Willie Teacher, whose credits range from theatre 

to television to the silver screen, HSA’s Theatre Department, utilizes a traditional arts 

conservatory approach to prepare students for the demands of professional application, 

as well as provide a general understanding and appreciation for theatre. The Theatre 

Department refines and focuses the talent, commitment, and enthusiasm of children and 

teens ages 4-18 in a fun nurturing environment, providing its students with a foundation 

to express, expand and explore their imagination. 

Our more advanced HSA Prep Theatre students unite theory with practice by engaging 

in a number of high-profile performance opportunities, including fully staged productions, 

auditions, and community events. Students and alumni of the department have been 

cast as principals in Broadway’s The Lion King and American Idiot, as well as popular 

television shows, films and commercials. Graduates of the department are prepared to 

go on to attend leading theatre programs at top universities. The department is led by 

world-renowned teaching artists, who are also actors, directors, singers, performing 

artists and poets–all currently active in their respective fields of performance. 

group classes 

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM 

AGES 2-3 

The Early Actor 

This class is especially designed for our youngest 

performers to explore songs, movement, and 

storytelling. The class is filled with tall-tales, fables, 

myths, legends and poetry. Participants will learn 

how to express themselves verbally and physically, 

and are sure to be engaged from start to finish. 

toy chest adventurers 

Ages 4-6 

Broadway Adventures 

This high-energy class will focus on the fun and 

fantastic components that are key to this American 

art form...the song, story, stage and dance. 

Students will create stories, sing, and perform 

group choreography. Musical theatre is the perfect 

genre for the budding Broadway star in your family! 

Story Adventure 

Let your child become part of the story. This class 

will focus on popular and classical children’s tales 

in a way that brings the story to life right off the 

page and onto the stage. Young actors will learn 

to create characters, add movement, and make 

dynamic acting choices. 

Poetry Adventure 

From the poetry of Dr. Seuss to Mother Goose to 

Langston Hughes and beyond, in this entry level 

class, your child will be introduced to the power of 

their voice and body, using various language skills 

they will artfully bring these poetic pieces to the big 

stage. Movement and Voice inspired actions will be 

a key part of this class and the fun of rhyming will 

be incorporated as inspiration. 

25 

Theatre 

scene makers 

Ages 6-8 


Group Classes 

Private Coaching 

HSA Prep Theatre 

see page 37 

Theatre Moves: Improv & Theatre Games 

Improv and theatre games will introduce students 

to the wonderful world of live performance games, 

acting, and role play. The students will explore 

the art of storytelling and their imaginations will 

be brought to life through structured creative 

play, movement exercises and spontaneous text. 

Different aspects of each student’s personality and 

will be the fuel for this class. 

Intro to Playwriting 

Students (ages 7-8) will write, stage, and star in 

their own scenes and play shorts. Taking inspiration 

from the world around them, students will discover 

the joy of seeing their work come alive and be 

produced on the stage. 

Be a Star! Monologues 

This class will introduce our young students to one 

of the most important tools in the acting world, 

the monologue. Classes will include character 

and scene study work. In a safe and nurturing 

environment, students will work in small groups 

preparing for solo performances on a real stage. 

Cooperation, memorization and imagination are 

the skills necessary to be a successful actor and 

they are developed in this class. Pieces will be age 

appropriate and fun..

26 27 


young thespians 

Ages 9-11 

Acting for the Camera I 

This class will expose students to the technical 

aspects of working on “the set” versus “the stage.” 

Everything from learning how to slate, to hitting your 

marks, to how to handle product will be explored. 

Knowing the different skills between TV and the 

stage can be the difference in a long diverse career 

and a passionate hobby. 

Acting for the Camera II 

Students will be taken on a deeper journey into 

the lens that is such a major part of our life. Action 

oriented results will be captured via wide, mid, 

close up and extreme close up shots. Students will 

also learn the language of the set and camera, and 

will reach beyond commercial copy into the world 

of legitimate acting techniques for the camera. 

Prerequisite: Acting for the Camera I or Department 

Director Approval 

Improv I 

This class is a great way for students to develop 

strong communications skills that can be used 

in all areas of their life. Improv will encourage the 

use of greater spontaneity and freedom through 

improvisational technique. Thought-provoking 

exercises will be introduced in this class, and 

the focus will be to encourage students to make 

active choices with strong emotional and physical 

connections. 

Monologue/Audition Technique I 

This class will develop the skill necessary to book 

the job by working towards the goal of mastering 

the monologue. Students will be assisted in 

selecting and preparing at least two contrasting 

pieces in this course. They will perform on the stage 

and observe their peers in a safe environment. 

Playwriting I 

HSA’s playwriting class provides the actor with 

invaluable insight into the mind of the writer. 

Students will create their own stories, characters, 

plots and settings. Those tales will then be made 

into scenes and performed by their peers. 

Scene Study I 

Core acting tools will be introduced in this class, 

and the importance of actions and choices will be 

taught. Scene work will often consist of multiple 

partners and the addressing the obstacles stopping 

the actor from achieving his/her goals. Technique 

and character development research will explored. 

Voice and Speech 

This voice and speech class is a necessary element 

for any successful performer. In this class students 

will explore basic vocal technique for the actor, 

including breath work, relaxation techniques, 

resonance, pitch, tempo and volume with the 

goal of fully expressing the truth of a text and the 

emotional integrity of a character. This is a great 

class for developing public speaking skills. 

Shakespeare Scenes 1 

Students will be taken on an age appropriate tour 

of the world of William Shakespeare. His life, his 

beliefs, and his characters will all be explored as 

Shakespeare’s scenes are brought to life. 

Stage Combat: Extreme Acting 1 

Explore how the physical life of an actor can be 

used to show the drama of conflict and combat in 

performance. The class will focus on falls, throws, 

pushes, pulls, grabs, throws, rolls and in a safe 

and cooperative environment. – The students will 

be provided with additional acting tools to make a 

young star shine. 

Private theatre coaching 

Ages 9 and up 

Be prepared for that next audition! Our private 

theatre coaching provides a more intimate 

training session with a master instructor on 

materials needed to audition for TV, film, 

theatre, and university or conservatory training. 

For private coaching rates see page 39 

teen players 

Ages 12-17 

Teen Acting for the Camera 

Acting for the camera requires an entirely different 

set of tools than acting for the stage. This course 

provides you with the tools necessary to nail the 

audition and the callback. Advertising trends, 

typecasting for the actor, headshot and resume 

review are all part of this show business class. 

Teen Improv and Viewpoints 

Encourage the use of stronger spontaneous acting 

choices through improv. This class will help actors 

to develop a strong stage presence, as well as the 

skills necessary to work as a part of an ensemble. 

Long and short from exercises will be explored as 

well as a study of the elements of viewpoints. 

Teen Monologue and Audition 

This class is designed to take teens’ acting to the 

next level. Stage spaces, eye level, projection, and 

intent will all be addressed. The class prepares 

students for auditions by providing the tools to 

enhance their confidence and land the gig. 

Teen Playwriting 

This class will encourage teens to share bits of 

their world as writer and actor. Students will be 

empowered as writer and actor. Students will 

be empowered through the writing process and 

will create the character, the story, the conflict 

and the resolution. Their life experiences will 

be incorporated into this class. Playwriting will 

enhance their academic writing skills and help the 

young writers to free their creative voice. 

Teen One-Act Festival/Advanced Acting 

This class will allow students to learn while 

producing. They will form a production company 

and undertake all the steps necessary to create 

a one-act festival. Class will have equal parts of 

business and acting. Roles will be developed and 

leaders will rise through the process. 

Teen Shakespeare 

Students will study monologues and scenes 

from the famous works of William Shakespeare. 

Vocal and physical acting skills are developed to 

complement students’ study of various rhetorical 

skills and Shakespearean performance history. 

Teen Voice and Speech 

This class explores vocal technique for the actor, 

including breath work, relaxation techniques, 

resonance, and volume. Students will strengthen 

their ability to fully express a text and the emotional 

integrity of a character and situation. This is a great 

class to develop public speaking and interview 

skills 

Teen Classic Directing Workshops 

A study of scenes from classic playwrights, 

students will analyze numerous theatrical elements 

including structure, development of plots, sub text 

and character journey. Then with the aid of guest 

directors put these classic scenes on their feet. 

Make choices to redefine tradition with your own 

experiences. This is a great acting class. 

Theatre

6 


visual arts 

group classes 

Ages 2–3 

Start with Art (Adult + Child) 

Come celebrate art making with your child for the 

youngest of our artists to share their love of art with 

you! Creative connections are explored by parents 

and children working side-by-side to draw and 

paint while developing an artistic vocabulary. A 

parent/caretaker is required to attend class. 

Ages 6–8 

Art Basics I 

An introduction to collage, assemblage, print 

making, drawing, painting and 3-D art are explored 

in a joyful, creative environment. Energy, curiosity 

and excitement of childhood are captured through 

visual discovery. A student-supplied, protective 

smock/apron/t-shirt is required. 

29 

Visual Arts 

The Visual Arts Department nurtures the desire within to create tangible forms of 

expression, through the development of new perspectives, techniques, and appreciation 

of master artists. HSA offers a wide variety of classes in the visual arts for student’s ages 

four and up, fostering creativity and individual expression. 

The curriculum includes classes in a full spectrum of media including digital art, 

drawing, filmmaking, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture, taught by a 

faculty of world-class professional artists and guest lecturers. Annually, the Visual Arts 

Department hosts an exhibition of the students’ work in the Gathering Space. 

Beyond the curriculum, HSA seeks to cultivate an appreciation of the arts within the 

Harlem community by presenting guest artists and faculty exhibitions open to the public. 

Art Explorations 

Introducing ages 3-4 to the exciting world of art, 

your child experiments with drawing, painting and 

clay in a fun-filled setting. Energy, curiosity and 

excitement of childhood are captured through visual 

discovery. A student-supplied, protective smock/ 

apron/t-shirt is required. 

Ages 4-5 

Kinder Crafts 

In this hands-on course, your child discovers art 

right at their fingertips. Through arts and crafts 

projects, students explore their creativity with 

construction paper, glue, crayons, markers, and 

paint. 

Clay Creations I 

Students will learn the basics of ceramics with 

an emphasis on individual creative use of clay to 

produce colorful sculpture. Both the art and craft 

are explored as children create colorful objects 

such as treasure boxes, personalized cups and 

other items. A student-supplied, protective smock, 

apron, or t-shirt is required. 

Drawing II 

This class offers continued focus on drawing skills 

and sketching using pencil, charcoal, and pastels. 

Exposure to various artists and art periods will offer 

inspiration and allow budding artists to produce 

realism and abstract art. By the end of the course, 

students will be equipped with a knowledge 

base to move forward into HSA’s more advanced 

drawing, painting, sculpture and photography 

classes. 

Clay Creations II 

Students expand their technical understanding of 

clay materials, decoration, glazing and firing, with 

emphasis on design and form. A student supplied, 

protective smock, apron, or t-shirt is required. 

Little DaVincis 

This course is designed for students who are 

interested in exploring painting techniques in 

watercolor, acrylic and oil paints. While developing 

their painting skills, students will discover color 

mixture, texture, lighting and composition. Subject 

matter includes still life, landscape, and abstraction. 


Group Classes 

Drawing I 

Children will engage in still life, landscape and 

portraiture as they learn the fundamentals of 

rendering, values, line quality and composition 

using pencil, charcoal and ink. 

HSA Prep Visual Arts 

see page 37 

Pint-Sized Picassos 

Students are introduced to the joy of painting 

through experimentation with different mediums 

from watercolors to acrylics. The basics of 

color theory, form, value, texture and space are 

developed through an exciting environment of 

imagination and observation.

30 31 

Ages 9–11 

Ages 12-17 


Art Basics II 

This course provides continued exploration of 

enhanced techniques in drawing, painting, collage, 

and 3-D art. Under the close guidance of an HSA 

faculty member, students develop observational 

skills and challenge their imaginations with each 

new project. Media include acrylics, watercolors, 

pastels and found objects. A student supplied, 

protective smock, apron, or t-shirt is required. 

Intermediate Drawing & Painting 

For intermediate students who are interested in 

growing creatively through the exploration of still 

life, nature, and the human figure with live models. 

Students will work at honing their skills with 

various media including pencil, charcoal, pastels, 

watercolor and acrylic paint. Prerequisite: Art 

Basics I or II. 

Introduction to Filmmaking 

Discover your inner filmmaker! Through the 

exciting world of digital video, students will 

learn the theories and techniques involved in 

the preproduction, filming, and post-production 

processes while receiving hands-on instruction with 

camcorders and Final Cut Pro software. Students 

will explore the community and our school to create 

a short documentary. 

Introduction to Photography 

This class introduces students to the fundamentals 

of 35mm camera and analog darkroom techniques, 

including processing black and white film. An 

exhibition of student work is displayed at the end of 

the course, showcasing creative expressions. 

Fashion Illustration 

This class caters to students interested in building 

a foundation in the art of fashion. Through the study 

of the fashion figure, quick drawings of a model 

known as a “croquis,” as well as the history of style, 

students are inspired to creatively produce finished 

illustrations in color. 

Manga Mania I 

Manga are Japanese comic books, often made into 

Japanese cartoons, better known as Anime. This 

course introduces young admirers to this style of 

art, made popular by Anime such as Pokemon, 

DigiMon, and Bleach. Students learn basic 

techniques to understand and draw the unique 

figures using pencils, charcoal, pen, and ink. 

Printmaking 

In this class students have the opportunity to create 

positive and negative prints of their drawings and 

print them with a cold press onto textured paper, 

fabric and other materials. Through printmaking 

students comprehend how newspapers came 

about as well as the images that are silk-screened 

onto their hats, t-shirts, fabrics and more. 

Advanced Drawing & Painting 

This course emphasizes the mastery of foundational 

skills in drawing and painting for teens. Students 

are inspired by the techniques of Masters such as 

Michelangelo, DaVinci, and Van Gogh to produce 

figure drawings as well as portraits, murals, still life, 

and landscapes using charcoal, India ink, pencil, 

oils and acrylics. Students are also assisted with 

developing a portfolio for college submission. 

Prerequisite: Introduction to Photography 

Advanced Photography 

For the experienced student, the next level of 35mm 

photography is explored through photojournalism, 

lighting and photo editing software to produce 

a theme-based portfolio. A more independent 

study of acquired techniques, each student will 

be encouraged to create a body of work that 

showcases his or her own unique creative vision. A 

brief history of photography is also included in the 

course. 

Advanced Sculpture 

Students study the human figure and architecture 

to build forms in clay using sculpting techniques, 

chisels, slabs and the pottery wheel. Essential 

sculpting, carving, and glazing techniques will be 

covered as well as training in additive sculpture and 

principles of working in three dimensions. Emphasis 

is placed on individual projects. 

Fashion Design for Teens 

Interested in breaking into the fashion industry? 

This course is for aspiring fashion designers looking 

to transform their stylish drawings into ready-towear 

garments. Basic sewing technique, print and 

pattern making skills are developed to create shirts, 

skirts, pants, and dresses. Class concludes with a 

runway show featuring student creations. 

Graphic Design 

This course introduces students to the endless 

possibilities of computer art! Students will learn 

basic print and web design techniques to create 

magazine covers, posters, and blogs, while being 

introduced to a variety of software programs 

including Photoshop, Illustrator, Dreamweaver and 

Flash. 

History of Art 

This course involves the teaching of art forms from 

Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas. Students 

will learn the fundamentals of art theory and will be 

introduced to a variety of texts and concepts that 

are pertinent to the study of art history. Students 

are required to write essays describing visits to 

museums and gallery exhibitions. 

Introduction to Photography for Teens 

For the beginner, age 12-18, interested in 

photography, this course exposes teens to 35mm 

black & white darkroom photography. Students 

learn basic camera controls to shoot and develop 

35mm film as well as lighting techniques to 

capture the community, nature, and portraiture. 

Class concludes with a critique of growth and 

presentation of photography portfolios. 

Manga Mania II 

An intermediate course for budding cartoonists and 

animation lovers of the popular Japanese comic 

book style used in cartoons such as Pokemon, 

Naruto and Dragon Ball Z, students begin to 

incorporate color as well as text onto images. The 

development of storylines progresses writing skills 

while expanding the imagination to create a fullcolor 

short comic book. 

Set Design 

This advanced course teaches methods of 

approaching, developing, and completing set 

designs through study of scenic history, research, 

styles, and techniques. By designing several simple 

mock projects and collaboration with Dance and 

Theatre Departments, students develop and expand 

skills resonating with the artistic and technical 

demands of professional set designing. 

Teen Art Basics 

Designed for teens who have always wanted 

to learn how to draw and paint, this course 

introduces ages 12-17 to art mediums including 

pencil, charcoal, ink, acrylic paint and watercolors 

to comprehend the basics of line drawing, color 

theory, and composition. An encouraging instructor 

and work environment aims to nurture selfexpression 

and develop artistic abilities. 

Visual Arts

32 

x 


Section Type 

New! Musical Theatre program 

Under the leadership of Aubrey Lynch II, former dancer with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater 

and original cast member and Associate Producer of Disney’s The Lion King, the HSA’s Musical 

Theatre Project empowers students through all four disciplines music, dance, theater, and visual 

arts. 

Classes, workshops, and residencies are led by special guest artists from Broadway and stages 

around the world. Currently a performance based curriculum, these classes combine all of the 

disciplines offered at HSA and culminate in showings and full productions. 

Musical Theatre Technique Kids 

Ages 7-10 (Grades 3-5) 

Students take classes once a week where 

participants learn to sing, dance, act, and design. 

Students perform at the end of the year. No 

audition necessary. 

Musical Theatre Technique JR. 


Students take classes once a week where they 

sing, dance, act, and design. Students perform at 

the end of the year. No audition necessary. 

Musical Theatre Technique 

Teens Ages 15-17 (Grades 9-12) 

Students take classes once a week where they 

sing, dance, act, and design. Students perform at 

the end of the year. No audition necessary. 

Musical Theatre Workshop Kids 


Participants rehearse musical theatre repertory 

twice (2) a week where they sing, dance, act, 

and design. This course culminates with students 

performing in a full production. Participation fee and 

audition required. 

Musical Theatre Workshop JR. 



three (3) times a week where they sing, dance, act, 

and design. This course culminates with students 



Musical Theatre Workshop Teens 



once (1) a week where they sing, dance, act, and 

design. This course culminates with students 



Students must register for one or more group 

classes a week for a full year in any discipline 

including the Musical Theatre Technique classes to 

participate. Audition and participation fee required. 

For more information regarding the Musical Theatre program and audition 

dates, please call the Director, Aubrey Lynch II at 212.926.4100 x325 or visit 

www.hsanyc.org.

6 

35 

HSA Prep overview 


Commitment from HSA Prep Students 

All HSA Prep students will be given a schedule 

of t 4-8 classes per week by the director of 

their department. In exchange for full scholarship, 

prep students must maintain a B- average, give 

4 work hours per week as teaching assistants or 

administrators (gaining invaluable work experience), 

have exemplary attendance in all classes on their 

assigned HSA Prep schedule, and adhere to the 

policies of the School. Parents and students sign 

a commitment letter each year, and students must 

re-audition or undergo an evaluation session each 

year. At the end of each semester, students will 

receive full evaluations measuring their artistic 

growth, class participation, attendance, 

behavior and academic performance. 

HSA Prep Application Process 

The competitive application process includes 

an audition/art submission; personal essay; 

recommendations from principals, counselors, and 

teachers; and the most recent report card. 

Admission to any of our four disciplines is by 

audition or invitation only. 

Applying to HSA Prep 

To apply for admission to HSA Prep or for more 

information, please visit www.hsanyc.org or contact 

Nadege Noel, Director of HSA Prep at 

nnoel@hsanyc.org or 212.926.4100 x332 


HSA Prep Music Program 

The HSA Prep Program is a highly competitive scholarship program that 

offers professional training in music, dance, theatre, and visual arts. 

HSA Prep students visit the studio of iconic Illustrator, Tom Slaughter. 

HSA Prep Music is designed to train students 

(the reason to delete the age is that we the age 

requirement at the beginning of the Prep program 

description - no need to state it again for each 

discipline) who display the talent and 

commitment to excellence for entry into an 

institution of higher learning and/or a professional 

career in music. The program integrates private 

lessons, ensemble participation, history, music 

theory, and ear training. A minimum of two to three 

Classes for a Music Prep student may include: 

days of study per week and additional performance 

dates are required. 

The audition process includes a theory placement 

test and a personal interview. All applicants will be 

asked to sight read at the audition. Students will 

be required to prepare Classical or Jazz repertoire 

for entrance into the HSA Prep Music Program. 

Please visit our website for the complete list of 

requirements for audition. 


• 

• 

• 

Chamber Music 

HSA Youth Orchestra 

HSA Jazz Band 

• 

• 

Chamber Jazz Ensemble 

“Wagner in Harlem” 

Ensemble 

• 

The Dorothy Maynor 

Singers 

HSA Prep is a highly selective, pre-professional scholarship program providing students 

ages 12-17 with advanced level arts training in music, dance, theatre and the visual arts, 

individual mentoring, study hall access, high school/college application support, and 

opportunities to engage with professional artists of the highest caliber. 

For over 25 years, HSA Prep has enabled young people of exceptional talent to meet 

high academic, artistic and personal goals. HSA Prep’s graduates have had a near 

100% acceptance rate to prestigious colleges, universities and conservatories including 

Harvard University, The Juilliard School, Spelman College, Brown University, and NYU’s 

Tisch School of the Arts, among many others.

36 

37 

HSA prep Theatre program 


The HSA Theatre Prep Program is an intensive 

scholarship acting program. This prestigious 

pre-professional training program is composed of 

various acting styles, designed to provide students 

with the variety of tools necessary to prepare them 

for entry into an institution of higher learning 

and/or a career in the theatre. The core curriculum 

is designed to provide our young actors with the 

building blocks that are necessary to position 

themselves for success. Each scholar accepted 

into the program is given a pre-determined 

schedule of essential acting courses and exciting 

electives designed to make them better citizens, 

better communicators and better actors. Their own 

strong commitment to the program will prepare 

them for HSA ’s ultimate goal, to ensure that all 

of our Prep students go on to highly-competitive 

college and university programs. 

To further enable our future leaders to achieve 

success HSA Prep Theatre Program will include 

Bridging the Gap a series of workshops and master 

classes designed to provide mentor opportunities 

and serve to bridge the gap between our 

exceptional training program and gaining real world 

business experience. 


Theatre Prep curriculum may include advanced training in the following: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Monologue 

Acting for the Camera 

Improv 

Playwriting 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Scene Study 

Musical Theatre 

Voice and Speech 

Neutral Mask 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Audition Prep 

Stage Combat 

Theatre History 

Shakespeare 

HSA prep visual arts program 

The HSA Prep Visual Arts Program is a preprofessional 

program designed for the young 

who is interested in pursuing a career in the visual 

arts. The program provides rigorous training in the 

fundamentals of studio and digital arts, including 

drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, 

computer art and web design. 

HSA prep Dance program 

The HSA Prep Dance Program offers students 

the highest level of dance training (previously 

mentioned in HSA Prep Overview). Dance Prep 

students must take all required classes including 

special workshops and academic courses, and 

will be selected by audition for all seasonal 

performances. 

Performances will be comprised of select advanced 

students, professional guest artists, and guest 

choreographers from dance companies, Broadway, 

film, television, and international productions. 

Dance Prep students will also gain inspiration with 

trips to outside dance performances and visits from 

guest artists. 

Workshops will expose Dance Prep students 

to the entrepreneurial side of preparing to be a 

professional dancer, and fully prepare them for the 

audition process. 

Students will also be well-versed in art history and 

theory. As students develop their skills in each 

of these fields they will create a portfolio of work 

that meets the high standards of collegiate art and 

academic programs, providing a solid foundation 

from which to become a professional artist. 

• Classes for a Visual Art Prep student include: 

• Advanced Sculpture 

• Art History 

• Advanced Photography 

• Graphic Design 

• Advanced Drawing & Painting 

Maya Lee, Age 14

6 

39 


adult 

classes 

Fitness + Dance Classes 

Pricing: Single Class $12.00 | 5 Class Card $55.00 | 10 Class Card $100.00 

Adult fitness and dance classes (for ages 18 and up) offer the opportunity to increase your physical fitness 

level and have fun getting in shape. Classes include Ballet, Intro to Horton and Zumba Fitness. For class 

schedules visit www.hsanyc.org/adultclasses. 

Private Music Lessons 

Adults can learn or relearn their favorite instrument under the guidance of a committed instructor–all 

professional musicians active in their chosen fields. Lessons are offered in 30, 45, and 60 minute sessions. 

• Flute 

• Oboe 

• Clarinet 

• Basoon 

• Saxophone 

• Violin 

• Viola 

• Cello 

• Double Bass 

• Trumpet 

• Trombone 

• French Horn 

• Tuba/Euphonium 

• Acoustic Guitar 

• Electric Guitar 

• Electric Bass 

• Piano 

• Voice 

• Percussion 

Adult Classes 

Adult Theatre Courses 

Adult Public Speaking 

This class will explore the necessary tools for 

delivering great speeches. Students will learn 

techniques for speaking in front of large crowds, 

how to overcome fear and nervousness, and how 

to use effective body language. 

The Actors Gym 

Monologues, scene study and production are all 

part of this dynamic course. The course is designed 

to help the new actor select, rehearse and perform 

a monologue; or assist the seasoned actor with fine 

tuning a piece. At the end of the course, friends and 

family are invited to the final in-house showcase. 

Adult Stage Combat 

This class teaches combat choreography to 

performers who want to make themselves more 

marketable in the industry. As stage combatants, 

students will create a safe space to show the 

drama of conflict and combat in performance. 

Private Theatre Coaching 

Be prepared for that next audition! Our private 

coaching provides a more intimate training session 

with a master instructor on materials needed to 

audition for television, film, and theatre. 

Adult Acting for the Camera 

This class is designed to help actors find their 

comfort level in front of the camera and de-mystify 

the acting medium. Students will gain familiarity 

with terms like marks, entrances, exits, and master. 

Who says kids have all the fun? Refresh your workout, pick up that instrument you always 

wanted to play, or explore a new art form with our classes especially designed for adults. 

All of our disciplines–music, dance, theatre, and visual arts are included in our adult 

program, and classes are offered during evening and weekend hours to accommodate busy 

schedules. 

Adult Visual Art Courses 

Graphic Design for Adults 

This introductory course is for students with limited 

digital art experience. Students will learn how to 

use a Mac computer and creative software such as 

Photoshop and Illustrator. Students will also learn 

how to transfer and manipulate photographs from 

hard copy to digital formats. 

Drawing & Painting for Adults 

Have you ever dreamed of painting portraits, 

landscapes and still life? It’s never too late to start! 

Drawing and painting fundamental skills are honed 

in charcoal, watercolor, acrylic and oil paints. 

Digital Photography 

This course offers aspiring photographers 

training in digital photography and graphic design 

techniques. Using Photoshop, students will learn 

how to digitally enhance and manipulate images. 

Independent shooting and lab work are required. 

Class offerings and times are subject to change. 

Please visit www.HSAnyc.org for updated information.

6 


space rentals 

41 

Frequently Asked Questions 

To schedule a tour to see our rental spaces visit: 

www.hsanyc.org/rentals 

In addition to providing a nurturing atmosphere for its students, HSA also strives to 

provide affordable rehearsal and audition space for the theatre and music community. 

HSA is the perfect place for your next event, with a number of venues available for rent 

during non-class times: 

HSA’s Gathering Space 

HSA Theater 

The HSA Theater is an intimate black box theater 

accommodating an audience of 120 people facing 

a 1,500 square foot stage with a non-sprung 

wooden floor. Marley flooring is also available for 

dance performances. 

DANCE STUDIOS 

Studio 104 | Mutlipurpose Room 

Studio 104 (44’ x 42’) offers a wooden sprung floor 

traditionally used for modern and African dance 

classes and also features a 11’x20’ electronic drop 

down screen for film viewings/still projections. 

Seating capacity: 132. 

Studio 105 (41’ x 44’) has a wooden sprung floor 

with light grey Marley floor, traditionally used for 

ballet and modern classes. 

Studio 106 (25’ x 17’) has wooden sprung floor 

with a light grey Marley floor traditionally used for 

tap, hip-hop and ballet classes. 

MUSIC STUDIOS 

Carpeted and fitted with music stands and upright 

or baby grand pianos. Practice, choral, orchestral 

and meeting rooms available with four smaller 

rooms (8’ x 9’ ) and two larger studios (20’ x 20’). 

The Gathering Space 

HSA’s G-Space is a 3,500 square foot carpeted 

area located at the core of the School. Its stage 

area is 620 square feet with a new hard wood floor 

and Yamaha Grand Piano. The 40 foot high ceilings 

feature track lighting, while the walls and monolith 

columns are bathed in natural light directed into the 

area by HSA’s award winning architectural design. 

The Courtyard 

The HSA courtyard is 100 feet long and can 

accommodate 70 guests. It offers a sculpture 

garden with a waterfall as the backdrop. Available 

for weddings, receptions, and social gatherings.

6 


faq’s 

Q: Where is the Harlem School of the Arts located? 

A: The Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) is located in the Hamilton Heights section of 

Harlem at 645 Saint Nicholas Avenue at 141 st Street in New York City esily accessible from 

the A,B,C & D trains at 145th Street station. 

Q: What classes are offered at HSA? 

A: HSA provides classes for people of all ages in music, dance, theatre, visual arts, and musical 

theatre offering private and group lessons at all levels of expertise. 

Q: How early can you start? Do you offer classes for toddlers? What about adults? 

A: Group classes begin at age 4. The HSA Early Childhood program offers classes 

for children ages 2 to 4 years old. Registration is first come, first served, including classes 

available to adults in all four disciplines. We recently introduced adult dance and fitness 

classes in Zumba, Intro to Horton, and Ballet. 

Q: How many weeks is a semester and how long are classes? 

A: Each semester runs for 16 weeks. Classes generally last 30 minutes to 2 hours, and 

students may take as many classes as they like during our 32-week school year! 

Q: Does my child need to have their own instrument to take a class? 

A: Yes. However, for those students who do not have access to an instrument, HSA can 

provide a list of stores that rent a variety of instruments. 

Q: How will I know what level class my child should be taking? 

A: Ages 2-6 require no assessment for classes, simply choose the class that is the right 

fit for your child’s age. For dance classes and private lessons, each student will be given an 

assessment by the department to determine the appropriate placement level for classes. 

Q: What do you offer for students who want to pursue art as a profession? 

A: Students, ages 12-18, interested in pursuing a career in the arts would benefit from HSA 

Prep, which provides accelerated arts training to prepare students for a continued education 

in the arts. See page 34 for more information. 

Q: Can I volunteer to help HSA? 

A: Absolutely! As a nonprofit, we’re always looking for great volunteers and interns to help 

keep our School running at its best. If you would like to make a difference and join our 

network of volunteers, please call Rona Carr, Human Resources Director, 

212.926.4100 ext.314 or email rcarr@hsanycorg. 

Q: What if I don’t speak English? 

A: HSA does have the capability on-site to translate into Spanish. For other languages, (e.g., 

French, Haitian Creole, Japanese, Chinese, etc.), advance notice would be very helpful. 

Contact the Registrar’s office at 212.926.4100 x304. 

43 

Frequently Asked Questions

44 

45 


timeline 

We’re approaching 50 years of excellence in arts education 

One of HSA’s first piano students 

1947 

After an illustrious international career as an 

opera singer, on April 21, 1947, Dorothy Maynor 

incorporates the St. James Community Center, 

Inc. in the basement of the St. James Presbyterian 

Church where her husband was the pastor. 

1964 

HSA Founded by acclaimed soprano Dorothy 

Maynor. First piano classes for 20 children held in 

the basement of St. James Presbyterian Church. 

1967 

Approximately 400 students are enrolled at HSA 

when The New York Times publishes another article 

“To Make Beauty in Harlem” on HSA November 5. 

1969 

HSA inaugurates its new theater with a production 

of Aime Cesaire’s A Season in the Congo. The new 

theater was converted from an abandoned garage. 

Faculty member James Bartow has been 

teaching guitar at HSA for over 40 years 

1974 

HSA enrollment is just under 800 with a 66 

member multi-racial faculty. 

1975 

HSA breaks ground for the new building. 

1977 

HSA opens it doors to offer Music, Dance, Theatre, 

and Visual Arts to families of the Harlem community. 

Under the leadership of Dorothy Maynr and 

Board Chair, Stuart Root, HSA inaugurates its 

Opportunities for Learning in the Arts program, 

which provides instruction to children in NYC public 

schools, in response to severe cuts in city funding 

for public school arts programs. 

HSA’s new 

building 

c.1978 

1978 

The Bard Awards for excellence in architecture and 

urban design cite HSA building architects Ulrich 

Franzen & Associates for the design of the building, 

with special mention of “a grand and welcoming 

central hall, an attractive exterior courtyard and a 

myriad of lively class and practice rooms.” 

1979 

Dorothy Maynor retires and appoints acclaimed 

mezzo-soprano Betty Allen Executive Director. 

1982 

Harlem School of the Arts Orchestra is formed. 

50 children between the ages of six and thirteen 

perform at the opening of Belvedere Castle in 

Central Park. 

1985 

Music faculty member James Bartow creates the 

Community and Culture in Harlem program, which 

features public concerts, lectures, art exhibitions 

and highlights of the achievements of individuals 

in the black community. First guests of the series 

include writer Amiri Baraka, attorney William 

Kunstler and the Boys Choir of Harlem. 

1988 

ARTScape Summer Program is introduced. 

Gala opening of the 25 th anniversary season of 

HSA begins with a benefit concert at the Apollo 

Theatre. Acress Phylicia Rashad and pianist Andre 

Watts are honorary co-chairs. Maestro Zubin Mehta 

conducts the New York Philharmonic. 

1989 

HSA enters new relationship with classical radio 

station WQXR, and launches annual radiothon 

on-air fundraiser. 

1990 

Student enrollment at HSA exceeds 1,500 for the 

first time. 

1992 

Betty Allen becomes President Emeritus, and Darryl 

Durham, a clarinetist, is named Executive Director. 

HSA’s Legaci Chorale tours Washington, DC, 

Maryland and Virginia with performances at 

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Howard University, 

The Kennedy Center Theatre Lab, Virginia Beach 

Center for the Arts, and The Peabody Conservatory 

Concert Hall. 

1994 

Max Roach and Urban Bush Women are Artists-in- 

Residence at HSA. 

1996 

Harlem School of the Arts Founder Dorothy Maynor 

passes away in West Chester, PA at the age of 85. 

1999 

HSA is named one of the eight leading African- 

American, Asian, Latino or Native American arts 

organizations in the nation. 

2003 

The President’s Committee on the Arts and 

Humanities recognizes HSA as “one of the top 

afterschool arts and humanities based programs 

in the country” 

2005 

HSA collaborates with Target to celebrate Black 

History Month with a special performance by 

singer/songwriter John Legend and HSA students 

2009 

President Emeritus and second President of HSA 

Betty Allen passes away. 

2010 

HSA presents Hank Paper’s Ascension: The 

Journey of John Coltrane, a photographic exhibit 

ten years in the making on the legendary jazz 

saxophonist and composer John Coltrane. 

Mayor Michael Bloomberg signing 

Dorothy Maynor Place bill into law 

2011 

Yvette L. Campbell becomes new President and 

CEO of HSA. 

New York City Mayor Micheal R. Bloomberg signs 

Dorothy Maynor Place into law. 

2012 

HSA celebrates the artistic life and legacy of 

Dorothy Maynor on April 21, with performances 

by HSA students and guest artists including 

internationally acclaimed Operatic Soprano, 

Harolyn Blackwell and South African students from 

the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy. 

Through partnership with Disney Theatrical Group, 

HSA launches its new Musical Theatre program, 

presenting the first-ever children’s version of The 

Lion King, performed by HSA students. 

History of HSA

6 

47 


our 

supporters 

The Harlem School of the Arts extends its deepest gratitude to the donors who supported the school 

and made our programming possible from April 2011 to June 30, 2012. HSA relies on the support of 

foundations, grants, and individual donors to cover 70% of our operating budget. 

To become a donor please visit us online at www.HSAnyc.org. 

HSA is a proud member of the National 

Guild for Community Arts Education 

$1,000,000 & above 

NYC Department of Cultural Affairs 

$250,000 to $999,999 

Herb Alpert Foundation 

Bloomberg Philanthropies 

$100,000 to $249,000 

Margaret A. Cargill Foundation 

Booth Ferris Foundation 

Ford Foundation 

JP Morgan Chase Foundation 

Herb Alpert Foundation 

Latham & Watkins* 

Open Society Foundations 

Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP* 

The Starr Foundation 

$75,000 to $99,000 

Consolidated Edison Company of NYC, Inc.* 

Surdna Foundation, Inc. 

$50,000 to $74,999 

Edith Cooper and Robert Taylor 

Christopher and Erin Keogh 

New York Community Trust 

Janice Savin Williams and 

Christopher J. Williams 

$25,000 to $49,999 

Frank & Lydia Bergen Foundation 

Darden Restaurants, Inc. Foundation 

The Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation 

Scherman Foundation, Inc. 

The Shubert Foundation, Inc. 

Wells Fargo Foundation 

UBS AG 

$15,000 to $24,999 

American Express Foundation 

The Arthur Foundation Inc. 

Michael Kostow* 

Dawn Davis-LaFollette and Mack LaFollette 

Steven Henry and Stephen Shneidman 

Dr. and Mrs. Henry G. Jarecki/Falconwood 

Foundation 

Robert J. Lemons and Elizabeth A. Moller 

Alton and Ann McDowell 

Marion Moore Foundation, Inc. 

New York State Council on the Arts 

Mrs. Janice Savin Williams 

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP* 

$10,000 to $14,999 

AT&T Services, Inc. 

Blackstone Charitable Foundation 

Drs. George and Mary Campbell 

James and Jennifer Esposito 

Marc and Michelle Goldfarb 

Charles J. Hamilton and Pamela Carlton 

The Hyde and Watson Foundation 

Milton and Melody Irvin 

Devin and Dena Johnson 

The Kraus Family Foundation 

Robert J. Lemons and Elizabeth A. Moller 

E. John and Patricia Rosenwald 

The Rudin Foundation 

Tishman Speyer Properties, Inc. 

Anonymous (2) 

$5,000 to $9,999 

ABNY Foundation 

Tia Breakley 

Lydia and Mats Carlston 

Peter and Faith Coolidge 

Drucilla Cooper Memorial Fund 

Ann and Gordon Getty Foundation 

Marc and Michelle Goldfarb 

Timothy Gunn 

Pamela Joyner 

Jeffrey and Donna Laikind 

Miyoung Lee 

Robert & Patricia Levinson Fund 

Lifetime Bunim-Murray Productions 

Elizabeth Linde 

Barry Mayo 

Ian & Sonnet McKinnon 

John and Katherine Morris 

MTV Networks Company 

New York State Council on the Arts 

New York State Senate District -30 

Luther & Deborah Ragin 

Victoria Sanders 

Melissa Smith 

Reginald Van Lee 

The Wallace Foundation 

$2,500 to $4,999 

Romare Bearden Foundation 

Richard and Elizabeth Cashin 

CastleOak Securities, L.P. 

Goldman, Sachs & Co. 

Halley K. Harrisburg 

Iorio Family Foundation 

Janus Management Inc. 

Diane and Adam Max 

Julie Mehretu and Jessica Rankin 

Katharine Mountcastle 

New Horizon Foundation 

Newman’s Own Foundation 

Office of the Manhattan Borough President 

Open Society Institute 

Michael Tannenholtz Consulting 

TD Charitable Foundation 

Troy Dixon 

Wake Forest University 

$1,000 to $2,499 

Ariel Investments, LLC 

Thomas and Martha Armstrong 

ASL Operations LLC 

Anna Austin 

Morgan Bale 

Bikram Yoga Harlem 

Daniel Brewster 

Gloria Browner 

Nina Cooke John and Andre John 

Leo and Corbett Corbett 

Arthur and Theodora Edelman 

Leona El Hadj 

The Marshall Frankel Foundation 

Kenneth A. and Kareitha Forde, M.D. 

The Glickenhaus Foundation 

Global Fund for Children 

Kim and Mason Granger 

Warren Habib and Alexis Walker 

The Law Firm of John Hannaway 

Harlem Artists Development League 

Especially for You 

Lynn and Tonya Harrison 

Steven Henry and Stephen Shneidman 

Jack & Jill of America, Inc/Metropolitan 

Chapter 

Anna-Maria & Stephen Kellen Foundation 

Lisa Kim 

David & Vicki Lawrence 

Edward Lewis 

Jonathan Levin and Susy Sarfaty 

Reynold Levy 

Sam & Anna Lopin Foundation 

Andrew Malik 

Henry and Celia McGee 

Eduardo Mestre 

Mark and Mary Miller 

Raymond McGuire and Mrs. Crystal McCrary 

Metropolitan Chapter of Jack & Jill of America 

Michael Mao Dance 

Nai Ni Chen Dance Company 

The National Flute Association, Inc. 

The Overbrook Foundation 

Nancy Perlman and Tom Klingenstein 

Louise Petz 

Basil and Portia Paterson 

The Prescott Fund for Children & Youth Inc. 

Joseph Richards 

The Saint Paul Foundation 

David Shaw and Beth Kobliner Shaw 

Melanie Shugart 

Gregg Smith and Jerri DeVard 

Lisa Solomon 

St. Cecile Scholarship Fund, Inc. 

Tisch School of the Arts at NYU 

Allen Thorpe and Meghan Mackay 

UBS PAC Charity Match Program 

URSA Development Group 

Bruce & Naomi Usher 

Pacha Villalba-Diebold and John Vertefeuille 

Marla Weinhoff Studio LLC 

Lee Young Woo 

Lana and Willie Woods 

Anonymous 

$500 to $999 

Ernest & Kathleen Abrahamson 

Leyonne Barba 

Stuart and Alexia Bascombe 

Bruce Bent 

Robin Boliver-Campbell 

The Century Association 

Evert Christensen 

Eileen and Michael Cohen 

The Debs Foundation 

Lynne DeRentis 

Caroline Doll 

Dennis Duffy 

Eastern Consolidated 

Medora Falkenberg 

Nancy D. Field 

Michelle Fizer Peterson and Julio Peterson 

Michael and Robbi Fleisher 

Carmen Gellineau 

David Granger 

Algernon Grant 

John Greg 

Joyce Haupt 

Maureen Hayes 

Joseph Hershberger and Gregg Gelman 

Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hines 

ICBC Broadcast Holdings, Inc. 

Irving Foundation 

Christopher A. Johnson 

Penelope Johnston-Foote 

Melvin & Sylvia Kafka Foundation Inc. 

Alexandra Lebenthal 

Courtney Lee-Mitchell 

Rachel Lovett 

Claudette Mayer 

Ms. Stacy Nettleton 

New Horizon Foundation 

New York City Transit Authority 

Linda Newton 

Louise L. Petz 

The RD Foundation, Inc. 

Geoffrey Richard 

Cleopatra Rolle 

Michael Sabatino 

Rachael and Jeff Schweon 

Shimon Shkury and Ruby Gelman 

Franz W. Sichel Foundation 

Silver Lake Technology Management, LLC 

Annaliese Soros 

Vera Wang 

Wellfleet Foundation, Inc. 

Diane Wohl 

Zickler Family Foundation 

* Indicates a gift in-kind. 

212.926.4100 www.hsanyc.org

6 

55 x 


OUR 

FACULTY 

Our Faculty 

The Harlem School of the Arts’ extraordinary faculty rank among the top in their fields. Each world-class 

teaching artist enables us to provide high-quality training in the arts to all of our students. 

List in formation. For a complete list of our faculty, please visit our website. 

MUSIC 

Isabella Abbonizio 

Maria Ahn 

Angela Ahn 

Eli Asher 

Jim Bartow 

Rudy Bird 

Jane Blackstone 

Lucia Bradford-Wiggins 

David Burnett 

Monica Davis 

Robert Delluerficio 

Donald Eaton 

Fima Farberg 

Ben Herrington 

Robert Hughes 

Judith Insell 

D.D. Jackson 

Sibylle Johner 

Tsyala “Delilah” Khudad-Zade 

Elektra Kurtis 

Joao Lopes 

Carrie Magistro 

David Miller 

Sam Newsome 

Olga Rosales 

Marcus Persiani 

Bernard Phillips 

Liz Player 

Robin Quinnett 

Oliver Reed 

LaRose Saxon 

Marc Schmeid 

Major Scurlock 

Christoph Siegrist 

Sonelius Smith 

Beverly Somach 

Yosvany Terry 

Rob Thomas 

DANCE 

Ernest Baker 

Jim Becker 

Jason Herbert 

Stephanie Jeter 

Andrea Long-Naidu 

Aubrey Lynch 

Freddie Moore 

Quenia Ribeiro 

Manuela Sanchez 

Rohiatu Siby 

Leyland Simmons 

Courtney Tilford 

THEATRE 

Antonia Badon 

Cherrye J. Davis 

Kimberly Dalton-Mitchell 

Charles Gerber 

Denise Hurd 

Amanda McDowall 

Crystal Price 

Willie Teacher 

MUSICAL THEATRE 

Jim Becker 

Jason Herbert 

Robert Hughes 

Rachel Lee 

Aubrey Lynch 

VISUAL ARTS 

Lesly Deschler-Canossi 

Ramona Fagbore 

Samantha Jennings 

Ray Jones 

Susan Kricorian 

Dominga Martin 

Josie Miner 

Ana Ruiz 

Ghislaine Sabiti 

Begonia Santa Cecilia 

Alexandria Smith 

Shanon Weltman 

EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH 

Isabella Abbonizio 

Aakhune Ali 

Jane Blackstone 

Erin Blatti 

Rudy Bird 

Kim Brown 

Amanda Dowall 

Donald Eaton 

Ramona Fagbore 

Elan Ferguson 

Gregory Gatewood 

Marsha Heydt 

Quenia Ribeiro 

Ana Ruiz 

Begonia Santa Cecilia 

Rohiatou Siby 

Allison Terrana 

Benja Thomas

6 

49 


Administration 

Board of directors 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

Charles Hamilton 

Chairman 

Janice Savin Williams 

Vice Chair & Secretary 

Administrative Staff 

Yvette L. Campbell 

President & CEO 

Rona Carr 

Director of HR & Administration 

Michael Reid 

Executive Assistant to the CEO 

Ana Ruiz 

Visual Arts Department Director 

Administration + Board of Directors 

+ADVISORY COUNCIL 

Alton D. McDowell 

Treasurer 

Mary Schmidt Campbell 

Yvette L. Campbell* 

Lydia Carlston 

Dawn Davis-LaFollette 

Michelle Fizer-Peterson 

Marc Goldfarb 

Steven P. Henry 

Milton Irvin 

Devin C. Johnson 

Christopher Keogh 

Robert Lemons 

Bernardo Rubie* 

Kenneth W. Taber 

Lawrence S. Zilavy 

Kenrick Garrick 

Maintenance 

Al Grant 

Security Supervisor 

Brooke C. Hall 

Marketing & Public 

Relations Manager 

Judith Insell 

Music Department Director 

Harold James 

Maintenance 

Gina Lee 

Business Manager 

Llewellyn Smith 

Maintenance 

Willie Teacher 

Theatre Department Director 

Wayne Williams 

Facilities Director 

ADVISORY COUNCIL 

Robert Levinson 

Chair Emeritus 

Alicia Adams 

Daniel Brewster 

Gordon J. Davis 

Brett Egan 

Bruce Gordon 

Jeffrey Laikind 

Spike Lee 

Reynold Levy 

Carol Sutton Lewis 

Rachel Allen Lovett 

Wynton Marsalis 

Phylicia Rashad 

Charlie Shorter 

Lana Woods 

Aubrey Lynch 

Dance Department Director 

Musical Theatre Director 

Krisha Marcano 

Student Services Coordinator 

Byron McCray 

Design & Brand Manager 

Nadege Noel 

Educational Outreach 

& HSA Prep Director 

Oamien Agans-Oliha 

IT Director 

*Ex-Oficio Board Member

6 

51 

Registration Information 

Financial Information 


policies + 

procedures 

There are three ways to register at HSA: 

1. 

2. 

3. 

Register online at www.hsanyc.org 

Register by fax 

Print the online registration form from the 

website; fax the completed form and credit 

card payment information and the 

non-refundable registration fee to 

(212) 926-8653. 

Register in person at the school 

Office hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 3pm-6pm; 

Saturday, 1-4pm (September-June) 

Payment Information 

The Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) offers its 

families the flexibility of 4 different payment plan 

options, allowing the convenience of paying your 

tuition in full or in eight (8) monthly installments 

over the year. Regardless of your chosen payment 

option, all tuition for the 2012-13 year must be paid 

no later than April 15, 2013. 

Tuition can be paid as follows: 

1. 

Pay tuition in full - 1 single payment 

(5% discount for paying tuition in full by 

August 15) 

Policies + Procedures 

There is a nonrefundable, registration fee of $40 

for individuals and $50 for families. Except where 

noted, tuition does not cover the cost of costumes, 

dress code attire, composition notebooks, and 

other supplies, although some instructional 

materials may be provided. You may register at 

any time; deadlines do apply for some classes and 

ensembles. Applicants under 18 years of age must 

be accompanied by a parent or guardian to register. 

At the time of registration, if necessary, parents and 

students will meet with program directors to plan 

the student’s curriculum. Final class placement 

will be within the first two weeks of the semester. 

Parents please remember to take into account 

student’s school and home commitments and not 

over book your child’s schedule. 

HSA requires students to purchase/rent their own 

instruments. Students may rent instruments from 

recommended sources. Further information can be 

obtained by calling the front desk at (212) 926- 

4100 x300. 

2. 

3. 

Pay tuition in 2 payments (per year or 

term) 

• Fall 2012 due Aug 15 & Oct 15 

• Spring 2013 due Jan 15 & Mar 15 

• Full Year due Aug 15 & Dec 15 

Pay tuition in 4 payments - Full Year Only 

(Includes a surcharge) 

• Payment #1 due Aug 15 

• Payment #2 due Oct 15 

• Payment #3 due Jan 15 

• Payment #4 due Mar 15 

4. HSA Flex Plan 

Pay tuition in 8 payments - Full Year Only 

(Includes a surcharge) 

• Payment #1 due Aug 15 

• Payment #2 due Sep 15 

• Payment #3 due Oct 15 

• Payment #4 due Nov 15 

• Payment #5 due Jan 15 

• Payment #6 due Feb 15 

• Payment #7 due Mar 15 

• Payment #8 due Apr 15 

Full Year Registration 

Continuing students may elect to register for the 

entire year (fall and spring semesters). 

Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. 

HSA reserves the right to suspend or terminate 

the instruction of students who do not meet their 

financial obligations. Additionally, late payments will 

result in a $15 late charge applied monthly. Parents 

are responsible for the full cost of instruction 

regardless of financial aid and scholarship 

application status. Tuition credit will not be given as 

a result of lessons missed. 

Accounts more than 90 days in overdue will be sent 

to collections. HSA reserves the right to suspend or 

terminate instruction and performance participation 

for students who do not meet their financial 

obligations.

52 


Forms of Payment 

HSA accepts cash, bank certified checks, 

money orders, MasterCard, Visa, American Express 

and Discover Card for tuition payment. HSA does 

accept personal checks; however, any returned 

checks will incur a fee of $150 without exception. 

Class Cancellations 

HSA reserves the right to cancel classes especially 

those with insufficient students enrolled. In the event 

a class is canceled by the school, you will be notified 

and given the opportunity to transfer to another 

class. If you do not enroll in another class, you will 

receive a credit which can be applied for the next 

semester or a pro-rated refund. 

Withdrawal and No Refund Policy 

Notification of withdrawals must be made in writing 

to the Business Manager, without exception. A 

pro-rated tuition refund will be given for students 

withdrawing from classes during the first two (2) 

weeks of the class. There will be no refunds after 

that time. Registration fees are not refundable. 

Missed Lessons 

• Please contact the Student Services 

Coordinator at (212)-926-4100 x 304 or 

kmarcano@HSAnyc.org to notify HSA that 

your child will be absent. Missed lessons 

require at least 24 hour notification to be 

considered for for rescheduling a make-up 

lesson. 

• Please schedule all make-up lessons directly 

with the Student Services Coordinator. 

• Calling an instructor directly is not an official 

cancellation and will result in no make-up 

lesson. 

• Tuition credit will not be given as a result of 

lessons missed due to suspension or dismissal. 

Tardiness 

Private lessons - Students who are late for a 

private lesson will not be guaranteed their lesson 

time. Faculty will wait for a student for one-third of 

the scheduled lesson duration; students are asked 

to do the same. 

Classes -Students who are late for scheduled 

classes will be allowed to enter the class no later 

than 15mins after class time begins. 

Dance classes - If student is more than 15mins 

late, the student will be asked to observe the class 

and write notes in their dance journal for review by 

the teacher and dance director. 

Financial Aid 

HSA offers a limited number of full and partial 

scholarships for students with demonstrated 

financial need on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

If you are interested in applying for financial aid, 

please visit www.HSAnyc.org/aid.php or come 

in to request a Financial Aid application. Please 

submit all completed applications directly to the 

Private School Aid Service (PSAS) along with a nonrefundable 

application fee of $21.00. A copy of your 

completed PSAS application should be submitted 

to HSA’s registration office no later than the financial 

aid deadline. PSAS is an outside company that 

objectively determines financial need. They notify 

us once you have successfully submitted all the 

required application materials. If you need any help 

completing the form, you can contact the PSAS 

Support Desk at 440-892-4272 ext. 333, or e-mail 

online@psas.org. 

Submitting a financial aid application does not 

guarantee that a tuition grant will be awarded. 

Any falsified forms will result in no future financial 

assistance given. Applicants will be notified in 

writing of financial aid awards. 

Work Study Program 

HSA’s Work Study Program offers students tuition 

assistance who wish to work in the administrative 

offices or as teaching assistants in classes for 

younger children. Work-study awards are a form 

of financial aid for talented students who need 

help paying their tuition. Students must apply to be 

considered for an award and meet the following 

requirements: 

• Students must be ages 15-18 

• Commit to working 4+ hours per week 

• Have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 

• Have no outstanding balances 

• If a returning student, must be in good 

standing in their classes 

• Family can demonstrate financial need 

HSA Prep Scholarships 

HSA Prep students are awarded full scholarships 

annually. Awards are determined by audition and 

review by departmental committees. Students 

receiving Prep scholarships will receive written 

notification of acceptance to the program. All 

scholarship recipients are required to have an 

excellent attendance record (no more than one 

unexcused absence) and perform work study hours. 

These hours are assigned at the discretion of the 

Prep Progam Directors. 

Discounted Practice Space 

HSA students are eligible for deeply discounted 

rental use of practice room facilities, subject to 

availability. Inquire with our Rentals Department 

212.926.4100 x321 or email rentals@hsanyc.org. 

Class Discounts for All! 

• HSA offers a 5% discount for the students who pay in full by the deadline 

• 5% 2-class discount on any additional one class 

• 10% 3-class discount for taking two additional classes per week 

• 15% 4-class discount for taking three or more additional classes per week 

• 10% Sibling Discount: For families registering more than one child residing within the 

same household. This discount only applies to each additional sibling’s tuition. 

• Corporate Donor Employee Discount: 5% off tuition for employees of participating 

corporations. Please contact our Development Office at 212-926-4100 x320 for more 

information. 

x 

Section Type

How to reach us: 

x 

The Harlem School of the Arts 

645 Saint Nicholas Avenue @ 141 st Street 

New York, NY 10030 

Tel: 212.926.4100 

Fax: 212.491.6913 

Registration & Payments 

212.926.4100 x304 

Dance Department 

212.926.4100 x325 

Section Type 

On the Web 

www.hsanyc.org 

By Subway or Bus 

A, C, B, D to 145 th Street 

M3 to 141 st Street 

To Volunteer 

212.926.4100 x314 

To Donate 

www.HSAnyc.org/donate.php 

Music Department 

212.926.4100 x312 

Theatre Department 

212.926.4100 x333 

Visual Arts Department 

212.926.4100 x335 

Musical Theatre Department 

212.926.4100 x325 


212.926.4100 x332 

Educational Outreach 

212.926.4100 x332 

Rentals 

212.926.4100 x321 

Welcome to our HSA Family! We consider all who enter our beautiful building as part of our 

extended family, who uphold our policies and treat our entire population of students, faculty, 

alumni, supporters, and visitors with utmost reverence and respect. 

HSA...an extraordinary and engaging place to discover the power of art! 

HSAnyc 

@HSAnyc 

Produced by The Harlem School of the Arts 

Photography: page 5 portrait, Lisa Hancock Photography; page 51 photo 

courtesy of the Mayor’s Office; page 20 E. Lee White; Kaitland O’Bryan 

Graphic Design: Kaitland O’ Bryan, Byron McCray 

Printed by Patane Press, Inc., New York, NY

HSA Calendar 2012-2013 - The Harlem School of the Arts

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