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 more than 130 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. Please 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.

For our Upcoming Precollege Events Calendar, click here.