The Precollege Division of Manhattan School of Music is a full-day Saturday music program for children between the ages of 5 and 18. Children are admitted by audition only, and once accepted are entitled to a full day of music classes. There are currently about 450 students enrolled in the Precollege Division, and approximately 140 faculty members.

In addition to a complete classical music curriculum, there is a jazz curriculum of the Precollege Division, in which classical students can take classes in jazz by audition only. As of fall 2003, the Precollege Division has instituted a jazz major.
Visit our Jazz Program for more information >

Students may enroll for a 40-minute or a 60-minute lesson, and augment their private studies with classes such as theory and ear training classes, orchestra and chorus, composition, conducting, and chamber groups. There is a concerto competition every year, categorized by instrument as well as age, so that children are competing against like instruments, and similar age groups. Winners perform in a public concert with one of the four orchestras. There are performances scheduled throughout the year in our various recital halls as well as in the main auditorium.