Here you'll find links to commonly used information for current students of MSM.
General Information Services Policies Student Rights
Welcome to the 2023-24 academic year at Manhattan School of Music!
Student Affairs at Manhattan School of Music is dedicated to really being there for our students. We want you to be seen, heard, and known. We want you to be engaged in our community in such a way that you see, hear, and know your fellow students. Together we can make Manhattan School of Music a place where the remarkable talent of each of our students is grown and enhanced.
This Student Handbook outlines what Manhattan School of Music has in place to support and enhance the student experience, as well as the policies and procedures we ask students to adhere to – the “do’s and don’ts” that you must live by in order to remain in good standing in the community. Please take a careful look at all the information that is offered to you in this Handbook.
This year, as always, we at MSM are committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment. The Dean of Students Office is a place to bring your questions and concerns. I do my very best to find answers and support for all who turn to me. The staff I work with in Student Affairs share my commitment, as we outline in our mission statement.
Have a great year!!
Monica Coen Christensen, Ed.D. Dean of Students
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The Department of Student Affairs has you covered from beginning (Orientation) to end (Graduation), morning, noon, and night (Residence Life), in sickness and in health (Campus Health Nurse and Counseling Center). We are your first stop when you have needs, when things just aren’t working, when you have great ideas to get off the ground, when you want to get involved and have fun. These are the people that make it all happen:
Monica Coen Christensen, EdD Dean of Students Dean Christensen took on the responsibilities of Dean of Students at Manhattan School of Music in January 2015 after having worked in higher education for over 25 years. In the early years of her career, she worked in positions of progressive responsibility in student affairs, including an 8 year period at Manhattan School of Music where she was Director of Student Life and then Associate Dean for Student Life. In the year 2000, she began teaching in the Higher & Postsecondary Education program at Teachers College, Columbia University. As a faculty member at Teachers College, she also eventually served as an academic advisor in the master’s program, advised advanced master’s student culminating papers, and supervised and adjudicated doctoral dissertations. Dean Christensen has Master’s and Doctoral degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University and a bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College. She lives in Brooklyn, New York with her husband, three teenage children, two cats and a dog. When she is not working hard on behalf of MSM’s students or on behalf of her family, she can be found reading, cooking and gardening.
Audrey Kajumbula, EdD Director of Student Engagement
Carly Siegel, MM Student Engagement Coordinator
Megs Ricci, MA in progress Graduate Assistant for Student Engagement
April Jenkins, MA Director of Residence Life April has worked professionally in Student Affairs for five amazing years, but she originally discovered her passion for supporting college students as a student leader at The College of New Jersey, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Communications Studies with a minor in Marketing. Following that, she worked in the Residence Life department at Syracuse University before eventually attending Teachers College, Columbia University and earning her master’s degree in Higher and Post-Secondary Education. While in graduate school, she had the absolute pleasure of interning in the Student Engagement office at Manhattan School of Music. While here she loved connecting with students, learning about their passions for the arts, and discovering ways that she could help them build community on campus. She served as the Advisor for the Student Council and the Black Student Union. She loved being able to help build inclusion and celebrate MSM traditions. She has spent the past four years working at Seton Hall University where she served as a Residence Hall Director, Area Coordinator, and most recently as an Assistant Director of the Residence Life department. She enjoys assisting students through their college journey, developing student leaders, and helping to give students a home away from home.
Makila Kirchner, MM Residence Coordinator
Nadia Lyall, MA in progress Graduate Assistant for Residence Life
Vaughn Watson, MA TESOL Director of Student Success Vaughn first got to know MSM when working in the English as a Second Language program as a tutor and as a teacher in MSM’s Summer English Study program. Vaughn has taught and tutored students in many settings including the New York City public schools, the BASIS International School Shenzhen, and most recently, as part of the Queens Educational Opportunity Center at York College in Queens. Vaughn loves meeting people from other cultures, learning new languages and doing crossword puzzles!
Thalia Phillip, MPH in progress Graduate Assistant for Health & Wellness
Hannah DeBlock, MM Director of ESL
Eduardo Pereira, PT, DPT-RAC Physical Therapist Dr. Pereira is an enthusiastic Doctor of Physical Therapy, with expertise in Orthopedics and Sports Rehab. His studies and experience encompass two continents and several cultures. He has obtained extensive experience with musculoskeletal injuries working with professional athletes, musicians and dancers. Born in the US and raised in Brazil, he earned his first Physical Therapy degree in 2005. Dr. Pereira has since received his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Montana, among other titles in the orthopedic field and in the healthcare administration. Dr. Pereira is a mindful practitioner combining comprehensive movement analysis, exceptional manual therapy and the prescription of precise corrective exercises to address the demands of each individual. Physical therapy and music are his greatest passions. He joined MSM’s health team in 2019 and feels confident that with his great clinical skills, commitment to excellence in optimizing the recovery and maximum performance of every student, he will contribute further to the management and prevention of injuries at MSM. In addition to pursuing new challenges and honing his knowledge, in his spare time he enjoys running, hiking, cycling and yoga. He also appreciates the arts, playing musical instruments, and traveling.
Dr. Shara Sand, Psy.D. Head Clinician Dr. Sand is a licensed clinical psychologist in New York State and received her doctorate in clinical psychology from Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY. Her Postdoctoral Training in Medical Psychology/AIDS was completed at St. Luke’s/Roosevelt Hospital Center, NYC. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree (Manhattan School of Music) and a Master’s Degree in Music (Brooklyn College Conservatory of Music). Dr. Sand specializes in working with issues surrounding gender, sexuality and sexual orientation. She has a wide variety of experience as a clinician, teacher, writer and speaker and offer services in several specialty areas. Memberships include the American Psychological Association, the New York State Psychological Association, the Performing Arts Medicine Association, Association for the Study of Dreams, and the American Federation of Musicians, Local 802.
Michael Alcée, Ph.D. Mental Health Educator & Psychological Counselor Michael Alcée, Ph.D. is a Clinical Psychologist who has trained and worked at a variety of college counseling centers. A graduate of Williams College, he earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Fordham University. Founder of one of the first college groups dedicated to introverts, he is a dynamic speaker and clinician who uses his background in music, literature, and the arts to help individuals and groups make creative connections for personal growth and development. His unique contributions on the link between poetry, music, and psychotherapy, and on the psychology of men can be found in the Journal of College Student Psychotherapy. He also writes about ways to help students stay connected to the most important technologies around (self-reflection and empathy) and how to meet perfectionism and OCD with creativity and balance. An amateur pianist, he is known to switch between Brahms, Bill Evans, and the Beatles while noodling around at the keys during lunch.
Vanessa Bing, Ph.D. Counseling Staff Dr. Vanessa Bing is a licensed clinical psychologist. She completed her doctoral training at the Graduate School and University Center of the City University of New York, and her undergraduate degree at New York University’s College of Arts and Sciences. She completed her clinical internship/training at NYU Medical Center/Bellevue Hospital, and holds certificates in Marital and Couple’s Therapy from The Brooklyn Institute for Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, and Conflict Resolution and Mediation from Long Island University (Brooklyn Campus). Dr. Bing has extensive experience supporting young adults having worked as a supervising psychologist at the University Counseling Service at New York University, director of the Women’s Center at Borough of Manhattan Community College, and Director of Counseling in the PRES Program at the School of Engineering at City College. Dr. Bing has a small independent psychotherapy practice working with late adolescents, adults, couples, families, and LGBTQ populations delivering culturally competent and sensitive services to ethnically and racially diverse populations. Dr. Bing is an educator, author and speaker on a range of topics including relationship abuse/dating violence, identity development, and racism as a psychological stressor. An avid lover of music (especially jazz and classical), Dr. Bing credits her time during her formative years playing music (viola and tenor saxophone) as well as her time as an NYU undergraduate spending many evenings and weekends at the Village Vanguard, Blue Note and former Bottom Line as cultivating her love and appreciation of music. She is proud to be nurturing this talent in her 14 year-old son who is studying classical piano, and who had the great fortune of participating in MSM’s Summer Music Camp.
Michele Bartnett, Ph.D. Counseling Staff Dr. Michele Bartnett received her Ph.D. from NYU and completed her Post Doctoral Training in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis at NYU. She received her Master’s degree from Teacher’s College, Columbia University in Special Education. Dr. Bartnett has lived abroad, has conducted workshops with psychologists in India and is fluent in French. Clinical specializations include depression, anxiety, and loss. She is an avid music lover has performed folk music playing guitar, banjo and dulcimer.
The Advisory Committee on Campus Safety is made up of faculty, staff, and students. It meets regularly throughout the year to identify safety and security concerns. The committee will provide upon request all campus crime statistics as reported to the United States Department of Education. For further information, you may read MSM’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. View PDF here.
There are no ATMs on Manhattan School of Music’s campus. The closest ATM is in Bahamas Deli Market on Broadway. The nearest bank is Chase Bank at the corner of 125th St. and Broadway.
Campus is open for operation from 7:00AM to 11:30PM, seven days a week. The Precollege Division is in session most Saturdays during the school year from 8:00AM to 6:00PM. College students are not permitted into the main building until 6:00PM those Saturdays, except for Andersen hall residents to use the cafeteria.
Students who wish to visit the library on Saturdays must add their name and MSM email address to the online Saturday Sign-Up List by Friday at 3PM. The Saturday Sign-Up List may be found in the top banner of the catalog.
All hours are subject to change. If changes to building hours are needed, the Scheduling Office will communicate this change to the students via email. When entering an MSM entrance, students are required to present their MSM IDs to security personnel. The ID must have the current semester’s validation sticker, which can be found in the Office of Student Accounts.
Saturday requests for tuba, jazz drumset, and percussion students wishing to access the tuba studio, percussion and drumset practice rooms may email their request to precollege@msmnyc.edu to be added to the expected guest list. Students enrolled in Electronic Music courses are allowed access the Electronic Music Studios on Saturdays by signing in at the main security desk. Students should note that their right to these rooms is not absolute — if their practice interferes with the normal operation of Precollege activities, they will be asked to leave and/or come back at a different time. Practice on Precollege Audition Saturdays may be limited and/or unavailable depending on the needs and activities of Precollege auditions.
Tuition payment provides access to Manhattan School of Music facilities only when classes are in session, and does not include either the intercessions or summer vacation. However, at times when the buildings are open and there are no special programs in session, Manhattan School of Music will make the building and practice rooms available to college students. Students will be informed of these limited opportunities for building access by the Scheduling Office via email before each intersession period.
Manhattan School of Music reserves the right to enforce rules for facilities usage at all times which may include closure of rooms, performance spaces, and the entire building. Because of the high demand, only current students are allowed to use practice spaces unless an arrangement has been made through administrative offices. Once a student graduates from MSM, practice rights cease effective shortly before Orientation week of each year and entrance to the building is as an alum.
Space reservation policies and systems are presented at Orientation each year by the Scheduling Office. An information sheet is available year round in the Scheduling Office.
Bulletin boards are an important tool to communicate what is going on in the school and around town that may be of interest to the Manhattan School of Music community. Department faculty and staff are responsible for the postings and maintenance of their departmental bulletin boards. In an effort to organize the posting of announcements and advertisements, the Office of Student Engagement (Rm. 119) has created several guidelines for the posting of announcements. Posting policies are as follows:
When a teacher cancels classes, they will notify their dean and the Provost’s Office and will send out a message through Canvas to their students.
Manhattan School of Music will sometimes cancel classes and close administrative offices during inclement weather or other emergency situations. The building usually remains open for study and practice unless circumstances dictate otherwise. You should receive an email to your MSM email account if classes have been canceled, as well as a text from the emergency text system if you have registered for that service. The alert will also be posted on the MSM Student Portal (https://my.msmnyc.edu/ics) and the MSM Website (https://www.msmnyc.edu). If you do not receive a specific announcement from Manhattan School of Music, assume classes will run as scheduled.
Manhattan School of Music is pleased to provide all government mandated consumer information to our students and the public. Please use the link below to access the information posted on the MSM Website.
https://www.msmnyc.edu/about/consumer-information/
Chamber Music
Most instrumental students are required to take chamber music at some point during their time at MSM. Please consult the MSM Course Catalog to review the requirements for your major.
Choral Ensembles
Chamber Choir is open to all MSM students (undergraduate and graduate) through audition. Chamber Choir rehearses two times each week and performs choral repertoire from the Medieval Period through the 21st Century.
Participation in either MSM Chorale or Contemporary Vocal Ensemble is required of all 1st and 2nd year undergraduate vocal, piano, organ, guitar, and composition majors and also open to all MSM students through a vocal audition. MSM Chorale rehearses two times each week and performs major choral repertoire; Contemporary Vocal Ensemble rehearses two times each week and performs contemporary works.
Any questions can be directed to Carleen Graham, Dean of Vocal Arts, at cgraham@msmnyc.edu.
Jazz Ensembles
The Jazz Arts ensemble program consists of four large ensembles and 20 or more combos. The large ensembles are the MSM Jazz Orchestra, Studio Orchestra, Composer’s Big Band and LatinX Jazz Orchestra. For the 2019-2020 concert season, these ensembles will perform at MSM’s newly renovated Neidorff-Karpati Hall and at Harlem Stage; the Jazz Orchestra and LatinX Jazz Orchestra also perform each season at Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, Jazz at Lincoln Center. Guest soloists are often featured in concert with our ensembles. Recent guest soloists include Stefon Harris, Jon Faddis, Joe Lovano, John Beasley, Billy Childs, Terence Blanchard and Jim McNeely.
The Jazz Arts combos perform at least twice a year in the Combo Festival at MSM and additionally, are featured in community performances at local clubs, on WBGO, Clem’s Place, Newark, NJ, and Harlem Stage. Coached by MSM Jazz Faculty, these combos present a rich variety of music, from Latin, Brazilian, Electronic music, Singer-songwriter to straight-ahead and contemporary jazz.
All students in the Jazz Arts BM and MM degree programs are assigned to large ensembles and combos based on the results of Ensemble Placement Auditions, which take place August 29, 2019, and are mandatory. Students may have the opportunity to form their own combos (by permission only) by submitting a combo request form, which is available to students in late August.
Ensemble requirements are outlined in the MSM Course Catalog jazz sequence plans, and as assigned by the Associate Dean of the Jazz Arts Program; Jazz Composition Majors may also be assigned to ensembles. See this link for information about the auditions: http://www.msmnyc.edu/Instruction-Faculty/Accepted-Students/Ensemble-Placement-and-Audition-Information/Jazz-Ensemble-Placement-Auditions.
Large & Orchestral Ensembles
Students enrolled in Orchestra (LP1500) will participate in a variety of large ensemble training opportunities as assigned by the instrumental ensembles office, with an eye to providing a breadth of large ensemble experience to each student.
The Office of Financial Aid is committed to helping students navigate through the many financial options available to them. The Office’s goal is to enhance the growth, development, and performance of all qualifying students by providing financial resources and information that will enable students to maximize their educational experience at Manhattan School of Music.
The Financial Aid page on the MSM website is helpful to students as they make their way through the financial aid process. Students are encouraged to contact the Office or to come in and talk to the team about any and all questions regarding financing an MSM education.
Refund checks are disbursed by the Student Accounts Office after the Add/Drop period. Students are notified via email if they have received a refund.
The Manhattan School of Music photo identification card with a current validation sticker is required for access to the building and a resident validation sticker is required for access to Andersen Hall. The Manhattan School of Music identification card must be shown on request to school officials or designees. New and replacement identification cards are available in the Office of Student Engagement, Rm. 119, between the hours of 9:00am-6:00pm. The first time an ID card is lost or stolen, students may receive a replacement card for free. After that, replacement cards cost $45.00, payable via PayPal.
View page here. Please also refer to the Course Catalog here.
The Student Locker Policy in full can be viewed here.
For additional information, please email the Office of Student Engagement: studentengagement@msmnyc.edu.
All residents of Andersen Hall are required to purchase a declining meal plan for use in the School’s cafeteria. There are three residential meal plans offered: gold, silver, and bronze. Students who commute are required to purchase a declining balance each semester. For current pricing information, please see the Student Accounts page on the MSM website.
The balance of the plan is carried over from the fall semester to the spring semester, unless the student does not return for the spring semester in which case the remaining money is forfeited. Any unused balance at the completion of the spring semester is nonrefundable. To add more money onto your meal plan account, please visit the Office of Business & Finance, Room A-446, Monday through Friday, between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. A minimum of $50.00 is required to add funds to your meal plan; cash, checks and debit/credit cards are accepted.
The cafeteria, housed in the Mitzi Newhouse Pavilion, is run by Chartwells a dining service that is dedicated to meeting the specific and varied food needs of the students at Manhattan School of Music. Please notify Chartwells of any dietary restrictions or food allergies.
The MSM Cafeteria Hours* are as follows: Monday – Friday 7:30am – 7:30pm Saturday 8:00am – 6:00pm Sunday 10:00am – 6:00pm
*Hours are subject to change during holidays and summer vacation.
Manhattan School of Music is deeply committed to excellence in education, performance, and creative activity; to the humanity of the School’s environment; to preparing all our students to find their success; and to the cultural enrichment of the larger community. A premier international conservatory, MSM inspires and empowers highly talented individuals to realize their potential. We take full advantage of New York’s abundant learning and performance opportunities, preparing our students to be accomplished and passionate performers, composers, and teachers, and imaginative, effective contributors to the arts and society.
Manhattan School of Music requires all first-year and second-year undergraduates (freshmen and sophomores) to live in residence as space allows. Students must submit a housing prepayment and application each year by specified deadlines to officially request a room. Students must submit and complete the housing exemption form to be considered for an exemption of this policy. The Office of Residence Life (residencelife@msmnyc.edu) does not guarantee an assignment to any student who does not submit the pre-payment and all forms by any stated deadline. Please see the Residence Life Page for more information about living on campus.
As a new incoming student, you may have the opportunity to take placement exams to determine the level of your abilities in music history, music theory, aural skills, and other subjects related to specific majors. Limited qualifying exams will be given to current students for the purpose of placing out of a requirement. The Registrar’s office sends appropriate notices regarding all of these opportunities throughout the year. For more details on placement & qualifying exams, visit this page.
The Scheduling Office oversees and assists MSM students, faculty, and staff in booking and coordinating use of practice rooms, classrooms, rehearsal rooms and performance spaces at MSM while scheduling all student recitals and associated dress rehearsals.
The Scheduling Office, located in the MSM Box Office on the first floor of Andersen Hall, is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
For comprehensive information on Scheduling Office policies & procedures, please look here.
James Gandre, President Joyce Griggs, Executive Vice President and Provost Nathan Mortimer, Interim Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Susan Madden, Vice President for Advancement Jeff Breithaupt, Vice President for Media and Communications Carol Matos, Vice President for Administration & Human Relations Melissa Cocco-Fernandes, Vice President for Enrollment Management Monica Coen Christensen, Dean of Students Kelly Sawatsky, Dean of Academic Affairs Bryan Greaney, Associate Vice President for Facilities and Campus Safety
Nicolas Gonzalez, Assistant Vice President for Strategic Innovation and Special Initiatives
Neeraj Kumar, Interim Chief Information Officer
See the Course Catalog.
Musical Theatre Shows
The MSM Musical Theatre (MT) Program produces five book musicals a year including the Fred Ebb Foundation Musical in Development. Each MT major is guaranteed casting in at least one show per year and productions engage creative teams comprised of theatre professionals. Productions are produced in Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Ades Performance Space, Miller Recital Hall and Riverside Church Theatre.
In addition to the production season all MT freshman participate in Freshman Cabaret and all MT seniors participate in Senior Showcase.
In 2021, the MSM MT program initiated the MSM Musical Theatre Lab Series which brings musical theatre creators to campus to develop new work. All Lab Series productions are cast with current MT students and MT alumni.
Encouraging students to self-produce MSM MT hosts a chapter of Alphi Psi Omega, a student run organization that produces musicals, plays and concerts.
Opera Theatre
Voice students at MSM who are cast in opera theatre productions, will develop their artistry under the guidance of a faculty of eminent artist-teachers — while gaining exposure before New York City audiences. The program has a long history of excellence, attracting some of the most talented young singers from around the globe. Cited by the New York Times for its significant contribution to operatic life in New York, Manhattan School of Music has a long and proud tradition of producing some of the finest artists singing throughout the world today.
Each MSM student is assigned an MSM email account that must be checked daily. The faculty/staff communicate with students in this media. If you have problems with your email, or you forget your password, please contact the IT Department at helpdesk@msmnyc.edu. For information on how to forward your MSM email to your personal email account, log in to the MSM student portal at my.msmnyc.edu and follow the prompts for forwarding email.
Students who wish to work in administrative offices or assist in other areas of the school may view a listing of available positions here.
If you have a question about work eligibility, please visit the staff in the Financial Aid office, A-5th Floor. They will determine the eligibility of each student to participate in the Federal Work Study program, provide information about on-campus work, and explain how students can apply for positions on campus. Students who are not eligible for work study may still be eligible for on- campus work, but non-work study budgets are very limited in most offices.
Applications and job postings for on campus positions are available in the Financial Aid Office. Positions that do not require work-study eligibility often include positions related to ushering, community impact, and theater operations. Occasionally, part-time on-campus positions for students are posted as needed. All student workers are required to sign a statement of confidentiality (FERPA form) in order to be employed.
International students have specific restrictions on work and must check with the Director of International Student Services (ISS@msmnyc.edu) for details before taking any job.
There are a variety of performing and teaching opportunities in the community through the Center for Career Readiness & Community Impact.
Job Title: Community Impact Performer Department: The Center for Career Readiness & Community Impact (CCRCI) Reports to: Associate Dean for Career Readiness & Community Impact Contact: cvaughn@msmnyc.edu Eligibility: Any Hours per week: varies Salary per hour: $50-$75/performance Application due: Ongoing; apply here Responsibilities: Provide interactive musical performances in elder facilities, including nursing homes and memory care programs Prepare appropriate repertoire and remarks, plus a meet & greet following the performance
Qualifications: Interest in working with diverse audiences in non-traditional concert settings Excellent interpersonal skills required Interest in personal interaction with underserved, ill, or elder populations Performance-ready repertoire
Job Title: Instrumental/Vocal Instructors Department: The Center for Career Readiness & Community Impact (CCRCI) Reports to: Associate Dean for Career Readiness & Community Impact Contact: cvaughn@msmnyc.edu Eligibility: Any Hours per week: .75-2 Salary per hour: $24.00 plus travel costs if required Application due: Until filled; apply here Responsibilities: Teach weekly group instrumental/vocal classes in NYC schools Create weekly lesson plans under the guidance of the Community Impact staff Complete mid-year and end-of-year evaluations
Qualifications: Employment is October through the end of April (minus school vacations). Weekly attendance is mandatory. Interest in working with children. Organized and punctual. Proper attire and appropriate language expected at all times. Excellent interpersonal skills required.
Job Title: Community Impact Instructor Department: The Center for Career Readiness & Community Impact (CCRCI) Reports to: Associate Dean for Career Readiness & Community Impact Contact: rcharnow@msmnyc.edu Eligibility: Any Hours per week: 1 hr/week for 4 weeks Salary per hour: $50.00 Application due: Until filled; apply here Responsibilities: Teach weekly group courses to elder populations via telephone. Create weekly lesson plans under the guidance of Community Impact staff. Prepare appropriate teaching materials and music. Opportunities to teach in various languages. Qualifications: Interest in teaching older adults. Appropriate demeanor expected at all times. Strong public speaking skills required.
For more information, please visit Room 113 or visit The Center for Career Readiness & Community Impact page here.
For information on external job opportunities through The Center for Career Readiness & Community Impact Office, visit the CCRCI page here.
Student Organizations at Manhattan School of Music are designed to give students an opportunity to build leadership and interpersonal skills, while contributing to the MSM community. Student organizations are open to all currently enrolled MSM students.
Students with common interests organize each student organization. Each active student organization must have an advisor who is a current faculty of staff member at MSM. Additionally, the Director of Student Engagement supports and encourages the work of the organizations. Student Organization leaders communicate regularly with their advisor and the Student Engagement staff as they plan meetings and events sponsored by their group. Each active student organization receives a limited budget to support them in their efforts during the academic year.
Active Student Organizations
Alpha Psi Omega Alpha Psi Omega is a theatre honor society providing acknowledgement to those demonstrating a high standard of accomplishment in theatre and offering fellowship for those interested in theatre. Students must qualify for membership to the society.
Black Student Union (BSU) The purpose of the Black Student Union is to promote the inclusion and celebration of Black culture at Manhattan School of Music. The organization provides a sense of unity and support for students of color and allies. In addition, this organization provides educational and social opportunities for the entire Manhattan School of Music community to come together to learn about and celebrate the rich heritage, history, and contributions of persons of African ancestry. (Formally known as Pan-African Student Union)
Chess Club
Chinese Cultural Club
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship InterVarsity Christian Fellowship is a community of students from different cultural and religious backgrounds drawn together by a common interest in exploring the Christian faith and its relation to all of life. IVCF is a campus ministry that encourages honest, thoughtful exploration of spiritual issues through hospitable small group Bible studies, large group gatherings, and off-campus retreats. IVCF at MSM strives to hold weekly meetings and one larger event per month where they will present speakers to share about the intersection of faith, life, and music.
Jewish Student Union Jewish Student Union serves to give voice to the Jewish students within the community, adding to the cultural diversity of MSM. The group works to build camaraderie among Jewish students through their meetings and programs and aspires to education students, faculty, and staff about Anti-Semitism today and of the past.
MSM Soccer Club
MSM Womxn’s Group MSM Womxn fosters empowerment in womxn in the arts. This group aims to create a safe space for womxn at MSM to speak of their experience at MSM and as womxn, period. There is a large emphasis on positive community building and advocacy projects within and outside of MSM.
Queer People for the Betterment of Society (QueerPBS) QueerPBS offers a safe space for people of all cultures and identities to freely discuss ideas and work towards making the community at large a better, more compassionate place. The group strives to bridge gaps between queer and non-queer peoples, assess the needs of the community and fulfill those needs, fundraise for charities and organizations that align with the group’s mission, and HAVE FUN building a community together at MSM. All LGBT Manhattan School of Music students and allies are welcome.
Student Government Association The MSM Student Government Association is the school’s largest group, whose mission is to provide a forum and voice for the student body at large. SGA works to enrich the MSM student experience through providing opportunities for engagement and leadership development. SGA is comprised of representatives from all majors offered at MSM. SGA sponsors many diverse events during the year, including social activities and discussion forms. SGA is open to all students – any enrolled student is welcome to participate.
The Black Rose Literary Society
If you’re interested in starting a new group we invite you to obtain a registration form in the Office of Student Engagement, or email Student Engagement (studentengagement@msmnyc.edu). A student must have completed one full semester at MSM before initiating the creation of a new student organization. New student organizations are approved and funded on an annual basis.
Private clubs or organizations of any nature that are not specifically supervised by a member of Manhattan School of Music’s administrative staff are not allowed to recruit and/or meet on school premises.
The school reserves the right to take action against a student group for conduct prohibited by the school’s standards of personal and group conduct. Such acts of misconduct by students engaged in organized activities of registered student groups, whether committed on or off campus, are subject to disciplinary action. An organized activity is any activity which is conducted under the auspices, sponsorship, or supervision of a registered student group.
Students can access important information from the MSM Student Portal, my.msmnyc.edu, such as course schedules, grades, financial aid info, and much more!
Students may request a change of teacher. This is an important decision to be thought over carefully and thoroughly. Student decisions to change teachers are often the result of miscommunication or lack of communication with the current teacher. You are therefore encouraged to discuss the matter with your teacher and/or with your academic division dean or department chair. If you wish to change teachers, you must obtain a Change of Teacher Request Form from your academic division dean. Complete instructions are on the form. In most cases teacher changes must be requested by the end of the Add/Drop period during any given semester. School policy prohibits any action against a student by a former teacher.
The MSM Campus Health Nurse works in collaboration with other Student Affairs Division staff and the Counseling Center staff. This collaboration helps to enhance the students’ experience at MSM by supporting the development and implementation of health and wellness programming. The Campus Health Nurse partners with community providers to increase access to health and mental health resources. These partnerships help to empower students to be self-guided and well-informed consumers of health care services.
It is proven that students who are in good physical and mental health can perform better and have better academic outcomes. Good health also aides in creating a positive school environment overall. The Campus Health Nurse Office offers an inclusive, culturally competent, and holistic approach to health that will help support and encourage students to succeed during their academic studies here at MSM, and beyond. Whether you have a health question that needs answering or an ongoing medical issue that may need some attention, the Campus Health Nurse Office is a good place to start!
Visits are conducted on a by appointment basis and first-come first-served Walk-In basis. Health and wellness services are available free of charge (insurance is NOT required to visit the office) to both residential and non-residential students Monday through Thursday during the academic school year. Services provided include: basic first aid and triage for minor injuries and illnesses; coordination and case management of student’s health care needs; promotion and education of positive health behaviors; education on the management of chronic conditions, and linkage to community health resources and services. If further follow-up by a physician or other medical providers, outside MSM’s Campus Health Nurse, is needed, you may be required to provide proof of medical insurance coverage to navigate the healthcare system in New York. You are welcome to contact our Campus Health Nurse by email at campushealth@msmnyc.edu or by phone at 917-493-4278.
“When health is absent, wisdom cannot reveal itself, art cannot become manifest, strength cannot fight, wealth becomes useless, and intelligence cannot be applied.” – Herophilus of Chalcedon, 335-280 BCE, Physician to Alexander the Great
The Manhattan School of Music Campus Store is located by the Student Union. The Campus Store is open 9:30am to 4:30pm Monday through Saturday* (*when the Precollege Division is in session). Students can also purchase music stands, strings, reeds, instrument maintenance accessories, Finale composing software, rosin, as well as gifts, accessories, general school supplies, diploma frames, emergency items, stamps, and our very own line of MSM apparel & gear. Online orders can be made via the link to our online store: https://www.msmnyc.edu/campus/campus-store/ Add us as a friend on Facebook and Instagram to see promotions and current apparel: MSM Campus Gear on Facebook and/or https://www.instagram.com/msmcampusstore/
The store accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards for payment and offers gift cards for purchase. For further information, please email campus-store@msmnyc.edu or call 917-493-4030.
The Center for Career Readiness and Community Impact (CCRCI) provides career-advancing coursework, a newly expanded internship program, and teaching/performing opportunities in local NYC schools and elder facilities. In addition, the CCRCI provides several invaluable resources and services to current students and alumni including one-on-one career advising, a curated Online Opportunities Board for longer term employment, and the Hire a Musician referral services for external performing and teaching opportunities.
The mission of the CCRCI is:
View additional general information on the CCRCI here.
Apply to teach/perform in the local NYC community here.
View the Online Opportunities Board here.
The Charles Myers Recording Studio, located adjacent to Charles Myers Recital Hall, is part of the Orto Center for Distance Learning and Recording Arts. The Studio facility and its engineering staff offer a wide variety of professional recording and livestreaming services to Manhattan School of Music students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the community at large.
The Studio’s goal is to ensure that every student leaves MSM with a portfolio of recordings that can be used to further their professional careers and which represents the advancement of each student over their course of study.
The Studio features a state-of-the-art digital audio multitrack and HD broadcast facility capable of recording events in all of the School’s main performance spaces, including orchestra and jazz ensemble concerts, operas, musical theatre performances, master classes, and recitals. HD Video recording and livestreaming capabilities are available in Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Greenfield Hall, Mikowsky Hall, Miller Recital Hall, Myers Recital Hall, Pforzheimer Hall, and beginning in 2023-24, Ades Performance Space.
All livestreamed events are streamed on the MSM website at https://www.msmnyc.edu/livestreams. Additionally, performances, master classes and concerts that are recorded each year are available for listening purposes via The Orto Center’s cloud media platform, MSM Mediaspace, at https://mediaspace.msmnyc.edu. Additional historical audio recordings may be found in the Peter Jay Sharp Library.
In addition to concert and recital recordings, the Studio is available for private recording session bookings to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the community at large. Myers Recording Studio regularly produces recordings for commercial release, including opera and jazz performance recordings released on Albany Records and Jazzheads respectively. In addition, Myers Recording Studio produces a commemorative compilation CD each year featuring the many outstanding performances from MSM student ensembles.
Studio tours, panel discussions and workshops on recording and recording-related topics such as How to Make the Most Out of Your Recordings and Introduction to Sound Recording for Musicians are offered on an ongoing basis.
Learn more about MSM’s Recording Arts Department here.
The center is designed to provide brief counseling and crisis intervention services during the academic year. Current policy is that students can have 8-10 sessions provided by the school per year.
Below is a brief description of all members of the Counseling staff. For more information on accessing, the Counseling Center, please click here.
If further treatment and/or medication are needed, then an appropriate referral will be made.
Counseling Staff Shara Sand, Psy.D., Director
For appointments: Shara@DrSharaSand.com
On-call Emergencies: 917-493-4000
Bio: Dr. Sand is a licensed clinical psychologist in New York State and received her doctorate in clinical psychology from Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY. Her Postdoctoral Training in Medical Psychology/AIDS was completed at St. Luke’s/Roosevelt Hospital Center, NYC. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree (Manhattan School of Music) and a Master’s Degree in Music (Brooklyn College Conservatory of Music). Dr. Sand specializes in working with issues surrounding gender, sexuality and sexual orientation. She has a wide variety of experience as a clinician, teacher, writer and speaker and offer services in several specialty areas. Memberships include the American Psychological Association, the New York State Psychological Association, the Performing Arts Medicine Association, Association for the Study of Dreams, and the American Federation of Musicians, Local 802.
Michèle Bartnett, Ph.D. For appointments: drmicheleb@gmail.com
Bio: Dr. Michèle Bartnett received her Ph.D. from NYU and completed her Post Doctoral Training in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis at NYU. She received her Master’s degree from Teacher’s College, Columbia University in Special Education. Dr. Bartnett has lived abroad, has conducted workshops with psychologists in India and is fluent in French. Clinical specializations include depression, anxiety, and loss. She is an avid music lover has performed folk music playing guitar, banjo and dulcimer.
Vanessa Bing, Ph.D. For appointments: drvbing@gmail.com
Bio: Dr. Vanessa Bing is a licensed clinical psychologist. She completed her doctoral training at the Graduate School and University Center of the City University of New York, and her undergraduate degree at New York University’s College of Arts and Sciences. She completed her clinical internship/training at NYU Medical Center/Bellevue Hospital, and holds certificates in Marital and Couple’s Therapy from The Brooklyn Institute for Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, and Conflict Resolution and Mediation from Long Island University (Brooklyn Campus). Dr. Bing has extensive experience supporting young adults having worked as a supervising psychologist at the University Counseling Service at New York University, director of the Women’s Center at Borough of Manhattan Community College, and Director of Counseling in the PRES Program at the School of Engineering at City College. Dr. Bing has a small independent psychotherapy practice working with late adolescents, adults, couples, families, and LGBTQ populations delivering culturally competent and sensitive services to ethnically and racially diverse populations. Dr. Bing is an educator, author and speaker on a range of topics including relationship abuse/dating violence, identity development, and racism as a psychological stressor. An avid lover of music (especially jazz and classical), Dr. Bing credits her time during her formative years playing music (viola and tenor saxophone) as well as her time as an NYU undergraduate spending many evenings and weekends at the Village Vanguard, Blue Note and former Bottom Line as cultivating her love and appreciation of music.
Michael Alcée, Ph.D., Mental Health Educator & Psychological Counselor For appointments: malcee@msmnyc.edu
Bio: Michael Alcée, Ph.D. is a Clinical Psychologist who has trained and worked at a variety of college counseling centers. A graduate of Williams College, he earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Fordham University. Founder of one of the first college groups dedicated to introverts, he is a dynamic speaker and clinician who uses his background in music, literature, and the arts to help individuals and groups make creative connections for personal growth and development. His unique contributions on the link between poetry, music, and psychotherapy, and on the psychology of men can be found in the Journal of College Student Psychotherapy. He also writes about ways to help students stay connected to the most important technologies around (self-reflection and empathy) and how to meet perfectionism and OCD with creativity and balance. An amateur pianist, he is known to switch between Brahms, Bill Evans, and the Beatles while noodling around at the keys during lunch.
Michael A Tate, Ph.D. For appointments: mtate@msmnyc.edu
Bio: Dr. Michael A Tate is a clinical psychologist, musician, and educator. He completed his clinical training at The City College of New York (CCNY) in Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program. Previously, he completed his Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Ithaca College and a Master of Arts in Psychology at Long Island University Brooklyn. During his tenure at CCNY, he received a diverse array of clinical training experiences including being a therapist in residence at The Psychological Center in Harlem/Washington Heights, Manhattan School of Music, and Queens College Health and Wellness Center and completing his Internship at Lenox Hill Hospital. Additionally, Dr. Tate has received training in Asylum work during his residency at The Psychological Center. Dr. Tate’s therapeutic orientation is best described as integrative with a strong psychodynamic foundation. He has worked with adults, adolescents, and children with a particular interest in childhood, emerging adulthood, and musician/artist populations. He incorporates elements of visualization, creativity, insight, ethnic/cultural awareness, and interpersonal processing into his clinical practice. Dr. Tate also heads the Child Adolescent Neurodevelopment and Environmental Enrichment lab (CANDEE lab). The CANDEE lab explores the interconnectedness of child neurodevelopment, emotions, identity formation, and the environment. Our research is primarily currently focused on music’s impact on neurodevelopment, emotions, identity formation, and well-being. Lastly, Dr. Tate maintains an active music teaching and composition career through his organization CrescendoNY.
In accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the American Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, Manhattan School of Music is committed to administering reasonable adjustments and accommodations students to students with disabilities (SWD) to prevent the discrimination on the basis of disability. It is the responsibility of all staff, faculty, and students to ensure that we uphold the philosophy of equal access both within the school and in the greater world.
Identification and Registration
Students who would like to register as SWDs should independently complete a Disability Services Request Form and upload adequate documentation from an appropriate source on the Disability Services webpage. It is the responsibility of the student to initiate the identification process. Upon registering, students must make an appointment with the Director of Student Success to discuss and begin the administration of accommodations.
Documentation
Documentation serves two purposes: it establishes that an individual is a person with disabilities and it can establish an individual’s current need for accommodation to ensure equal access. Documentation must demonstrate that a physical or mental disability that creates a substantial limitation to a major life activity to establish protection under Section 504 and the ADA. The Director of Student Success also reserves the right to use common sense and good judgement in place of documentation in instances of obvious disability.
Accommodations
Due to the nature of the conservatory curriculum, accommodations must be renewed and re-administered at the beginning of each academic year. An email notification will be sent out as a reminder to students. It is the student’s responsibility to meet with the Director of Student Success to request accommodations each academic year.
Grievances
Students who are unhappy with a decision made about their accommodations should contact the Dean of Students, Monica Christensen.
For more information about Disability Services, please click here.
Weekdays, 10:00am to 12:00pm; 1:00pm to 5:00pm (or as posted)
The Evelyn Sharp Performance Library is located just outside the entrance to the Peter Jay Sharp Library.
The Evelyn Sharp Performance Library offers these services:
Circulation of scores/parts for:
Rental orchestra or chamber music parts for student recitals (fees apply)
Use of Score Binding Equipment for Composition Students (by appointment only)
Visit Libraries webpage here.
First-aid/ emergency kits are available in the following locations:
• Heckscher Library (second floor, main School building) • Myers Recording Studio (third floor, main School building) • Neidorff-Karpati Hall (first floor, main School building) • Greenfield Hall (first floor, main School building) • The MSM Cafeteria (lower level, main School building) • The MSM Library (third floor, Andersen Hall) • Ades Performance Space (main floor, Andersen Hall) • The 6th floor lounge in Andersen Hall • Cellar Practice Rooms (Cellar, Andersen) • A-401 (Andersen, 4th Floor)
For first aid assistance, please speak with a staff member in any of these locations.
There is a gym in the basement of Andersen Hall which is open 24/7 to students residing in Andersen Hall.
As a neighbor of Columbia University, Manhattan School of Music students have access to the Affiliate Membership at The Dodge Fitness Center. Click on the link to check out their prices: https://perec.columbia.edu/content/eligibility.
View page here.
International Student Services is part of the Enrollment Management Team and assists international students in acquiring proper documentation for entering the United States, maintaining legal student visa status, and helping with applications to acquire student visa benefits. Our office sponsors a session for all new international students at the beginning of the fall semester during orientation and provides ongoing opportunities for students to learn more about United States culture. If you are an international student and need assistance, please visit International Student Services (A-447 / Andersen Hall).
International students are required to submit the mandatory SEVIS check-in form along with proper documentation at the start of each semester. Failure to check in may result in the termination of your immigration status.
International students are responsible for maintaining their legal status. If you are an international student, it is your responsibility to know whether you are legally allowed to work in the U.S. For example, if you are an F-1 student, you are allowed to work no more than 20 hours/week on campus at Manhattan School of Music but will need written government authorization in order to work off campus. If you are a J-1 student, you need written authorization from International Student Services before you accept any employment (on campus or off). Please see International Student Services before accepting any jobs.
For more information, please contact:
Director, Michael Lockhart: mlockhart@msmnyc.edu / 917-493-4460
Assistant Director, Isabel Eisen: ieisen@msmnyc.edu / 917-493-4323
The Office of Facilities oversees the Lost & Found at Manhattan School of Music. To submit found items, or to look for a lost item, please stop by the Facilities Office, located in room 400, on the fourth floor of the School’s Main Building.
Lost and found items may be dropped off/retrieved during Monday through Friday business hours, 10:00AM – 4:00PM. After business hours, or when the Facilities Office is closed, you may submit items to the Security Desk. To report a lost or found item, a form can be accessed online here.
All found items are held for six weeks. Unclaimed articles are subject to the following procedures after six weeks:
· Clothing will be donated to a charitable institution
· Books will be given to the Library for use, or donated to a charitable institution
· Musical Instruments will be given to the appropriate Chair or Outreach
· Miscellaneous items shall be donated or discarded, as determined by the Facilities Department
At this time, the Office of Residence Life does not have any current listings available to help navigate your search. Please utilize the guides linked here for more information about how to find off-campus housing.
To get to the Library, take the elevator or stairs next to Neidorff-Karpati Hall to the third floor, then the hallway north (to the right) into Andersen Hall. Bring your MSM ID card—you need it to borrow from the collection, and to use the copy machines.
Regular semester hours: Monday-Thursday 9-9; Friday-Saturday 9-6; Sunday 2-8.
Website and catalog: https://msmnyc.libguides.com/homepage. Circulation desk: 917-493-4512. For email inquiries: library@msmnyc.edu.
Please be sure to read the Privileges and Policies; you are responsible for knowing them.
Getting started:
To begin, we suggest that new students spend 15 minutes going through our guide for starting in the Library. This will help you become familiar with our collections and resources. It is also important to set up your passwords and copy machine permissions in advance so that you will be ready to find and use everything you need when the time comes.
Collections
You may check out almost any item in our collection, with few limits. The due date will be the last day of the semester, unless someone else places a hold on it. We do not charge overdue fines, but if you fail to meet the due date, you’ll be blocked from using our digital resources, and billed for the replacement of the item you didn’t return (cost of item plus $50).
Printed music: The Peter Jay Library has wide-ranging collections of solo repertoire, performance sets for chamber music, songs, operatic and musical theater vocal scores, and study scores. There is an extensive collection of contemporary music–check the oversized section!
Books: Our books cover music–primarily classical, jazz, and musical theater– and the other performing and fine arts, as well as literature, history, philosophy, psychology, science, and more.
Digital resources: We have a wide array of resources for digital scores, ebooks, magazines, streaming audio and video, and research databases. We recommend your spending fifteen minutes looking through our A-Z List of Digital Resources, and setting yourself up with any app downloads or logins you might need for the duration of your time at MSM.
Interlibrary loan: Through our free interlibrary loan service, we can obtain for you almost anything that’s not owned by the MSM Library.
Facilities
Copy machines: We have three multi-purpose machines (copy, scan, print) inside the Library, in addition to one just outside the Library that’s available 24 hours a day. You must use your MSM ID card to log in and to pay.
Computers: We have several computers (PCs and Macs) equipped with standard Microsoft Office software, as well as Sibelius and Finale software.
Questions? Contact Peter Caleb, the library director, at pcaleb@msmnyc.edu; or write to our general reference address at library@msmnyc.edu.
Students, faculty, and staff should report needed piano repairs via email to:
PianoTech@lists.msmnyc.edu
When the problem has been addressed, you will be notified by return email.
Since 2019, MSM has provided access to a physical therapist, Dr. Eduardo Pereira, PT, DPT, RAC, for limited hours each week. Students who would benefit from physical therapy must first visit the Campus Health Nurse Office who will coordinate treatment with Dr. Pereira.
The Scheduling Office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Student requests are not taken over the phone or via email. They must be made in person in the Scheduling Office located in the Box Office.
For comprehensive information on Student Recitals, please look here.
Printed programs for student recitals are generated through MSM, and the process is time- sensitive. If you will be presenting a recital this year, please follow the instructions in your Student Recital Packet, issued by the Scheduling Office. There will be no exceptions for missed deadlines.
Manhattan School of Music often receives free or reduced-price tickets to concerts. When tickets are available, notices are given via email and posted to the Emesem Staffairs Facebook page. Promotional flyers are posted in the main school building and Andersen Hall.
MSM offers discounted movie tickets to AMC theaters across New York City. The discounted price per ticket is $10.25, payable in exact change to the Office of Business and Finance, room A-442 or A-446. Their office hours are 9:00am-5:00pm, Monday-Friday. If you purchase tickets that total less than $50.00, you must pay in cash and it must be in exact change. All charges above $50.00 may be paid via credit or debit card. Please be aware that you are not able to use these discount movie tickets for movies that are in 3-D or IMAX.
All students are expected to maintain good academic progress throughout their degree studies, and to advance artistically in their professional musical training. The MSM Course Catalog clearly outlines MSM’s expectations. Students should take the time to familiarize themselves with MSM’s academic and artistic standards. The Course Catalog can be found here.
View PDF here.
Refer to the Course Catalog here.
Efforts to Proactively Prevent Bias Crimes
Manhattan School of Music is committed to developing as an artistic educational environment that balances respect for the individual, the community, and the artistic learning process. It encourages reflection, discussion, expression, questioning, and learning that are not discriminatory or harassing. The School carries out discussions and/or presentations in and out of the classroom that encourage respectful interactions between individuals. In addition, education to inform the community on issues about cultural inclusion, bias-related harassment, and crimes will occur via workshops, the sharing of literature and through the use of bulletin boards. Students will be informed of presentations, films, seminars, performances, or discussions that complement the classroom experience through the Office of Student Engagement and through the Office of Residence Life by postings in the School and/or Andersen Hall, or on social media platforms. The purpose of these programs is to disseminate information about bias, discrimination and bias-related crime, promote discussion, encourage reporting of incidents of such crime, and facilitate prevention.
Bias-Related Incidents and the NYS Hate Crimes Act of 2000
Applicable laws, ordinances, and regulations on bias-related crime, including the provisions and coverage of the Hate Crimes Act of 2000 codified in article 485 of the New York State penal law.
The laws on and penalties for the commission of bias-related crimes can be viewed at Hate Crimes Act 2000 (ny.gov)
A person commits a hate crime when he or she commits a specified offense and either:
Nature of and Common Circumstances concerning Bias-related Crime on College Campuses
On campus, as elsewhere, bias crimes are criminal offenses in which the act is directed at an individual because of their particular social identity. Evidence that a crime is a bias crime includes, but is not limited to, the presence of racial epithets, disparate treatment based on racially or gender- related assumptions, or sexually discriminatory behaviors in terms of “hostile environment” (sexual harassment), and intolerance toward openly gay students (in language and action).
Penalties for Commission of Bias-related Crimes
When a person is convicted of a hate crime, the crime shall be deemed to be a higher category than the specified offense the defendant committed. New York State penalties for bias-related crimes are very serious and range from fines to imprisonment for lengthy periods, depending on the nature of the underlying criminal offense, the use of violence or previous convictions of the offender.
Procedures in Effect at the College for Dealing with Bias-related Crime
Students should notify Manhattan School of Music’s security staff (ext. 4700 in Andersen Hall or ext. 4444 in the school) immediately of all incidents of bias-related crime so that protection— including police protection—can be provided if needed. When the accused is a Manhattan School of Music student, the victim should meet with the Director of Residence Life, the Director of Student Engagement, the Dean of Students, or the Vice President for Administration and Human Relations/Title IX Coordinator. The student can be advised of procedures to report incidents, options for counseling support, and medical assistance if needed. Students may file formal charges with the police as well.
Students, staff, and faculty are encouraged to report any violation of policy or behavior that is outside of the community standards in a timely fashion so that the School can investigate and react in an optimal fashion. Students may pursue a bias-related crime through both the School and through the New York State criminal justice system. The School has no jurisdiction over the New York State criminal system process, so both processes may proceed on different timelines and with different outcomes.
Support Services for Those Who Have Experienced or Witnessed Bias-related Crime Support services for those who have experienced or witnessed bias-related crime are available in the Office of Student Engagement and the Office of Residence Life. Both offices can help connect them to MSM’s Campus Health Nurse and/or the Counseling Center for counseling support and/or to be directed for medical assistance.
MSM regularly sends messages to the community regarding campus and safety protocols. Students are responsible for complying with communicated campus safety protocols and can be sanctioned under the Code of Conduct for failure to comply with protocols.
What should I do when I am concerned about the behavior or the wellbeing of a classmate?
MSM established the Campus Assessment Response and Evaluation (C.A.R.E.) Team in 2013 to better manage getting help to those who need it, and to make sure MSM identifies anyone who poses a potential danger to others. The C.A.R.E. Team is composed of individuals who have specific expertise and professional training in the assessment of, and intervention with, individuals who may present a threat to themselves and/or the Manhattan School of Music Community. The C.A.R.E. Team can follow up with appropriate resources to give the referred individual the physical, psychological and academic support they need. The C.A.R. E. Team also seeks to educate the campus community on the importance of prompt reporting of the problematic behaviors. You can find the C.A.R.E. Team Referral Form here.
C.A.R.E. Team members
What are the warning signs that a classmate may be in distress?
Are there common situations to be aware of that can lead to distress?
Yes, if you know someone who is experiencing one or more of the following they may need support more than usual:
What should I do if I think a classmate at MSM is showing signs of distress? Fill out the C.A.R.E. Team Referral Form
What should I be careful NOT to do?
What will happen after I refer a classmate to the C.A.R.E. Team?
Out of respect to the entire Manhattan School of Music community, the School requires that all cell phones and all other electronic devices that emit sound be turned off while in offices or the library and during all classes, rehearsals, performances, and school events. If an electronic device needs to be in operation, it must be switched to the vibrating or silent alert mode. When answering a phone, please be courteous to others by seeking an appropriate location, speaking as softly as possible, and limiting the duration of the call. Cell phones are not to be used while in class, rehearsal, or performance for any reason unless expressly required by an MSM Faculty member. Faculty members, staff members, and any school official may temporarily confiscate any devices that unnecessarily interrupt any activity.
Manhattan School of Music is committed to maintaining a drug-free school and workplace. The School is dedicated to excellence in musical performance and academic achievement; to promote this goal, the School requires that faculty, staff, and students maintain the highest standards of personal and professional conduct. The illegal or abusive use of drugs and alcohol by members of the community adversely affects the quality of campus life and the mission of the institution and is therefore prohibited.
The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, solicitation, or use of illegal drugs or alcohol is prohibited at all times in the School and in the course of any School- or work-related activity.
Employees and students are prohibited from appearing on School premises or property owned or leased by the institution while visibly and significantly intoxicated or impaired by the use of alcohol or illegal drugs. This prohibition includes, consistent with New York State law, the consumption of alcohol or marijuana by individuals under 21 years of age without a prescription* and the knowing distribution of alcohol or marijuana to individuals under 21 years of age. In accordance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, and with the safety and well-being of members of our community in mind, Manhattan School of Music has established guidelines for dealing with the issues of alcohol and drug use.
*See MSM’s Medical Marijuana Policy
Manhattan School of Music expects all staff and faculty members and students to become familiar with the law and School policy and the penalties and risks that can result from violations. The law places major responsibility and liability on both the person who serves and the person who buys the alcohol. Included in these laws are those that govern driving under the influence of alcohol, purchasing alcohol by and for persons under the legal drinking age, and serving alcohol to persons who are either underage or intoxicated. Persons who unlawfully furnish alcoholic beverages or marijuana to students who are not of legal drinking/marijuana possession age shall be in violation of School policy and subject to disciplinary action and may be liable for personal injuries or property damages resulting from misconduct committed by underage, intoxicated or high students.
Students living in Andersen Residence Hall, their guests, and all who enter the hall must also abide by policies stated in the Residence Life Handbook.
Institutional and Legal Sanctions for violations of the Drug and Alcohol Policy
Disciplinary sanctions for violation of the Drug and Alcohol Policy that may be imposed on students include warning, residence hall fine, disciplinary probation (NOTE: Students on disciplinary probation may lose eligibility for Manhattan School Music scholarships.), community service, removal from residential facilities, suspension, and dismissal or expulsion. A student found engaging in any of the above offenses will be subject to disciplinary actions, up to and including expulsion.
The institution will also consider as a possible sanction referral of the matter to law enforcement, which may result in criminal prosecution. The penalty imposed as a result of criminal prosecution depends on many factors, including the type and amount of controlled substance involved, the number of prior offenses, if any, and whether any other crimes were committed in connection with the use of the controlled substance. Possible sanctions include incarceration and imposition of substantial monetary fines.
The School will offer no protection or immunity from prosecution by federal, state, or local law enforcement agencies.
Federal, State and Local Laws Regarding Alcohol and Other Drugs
Some of the federal, state, and local laws regarding alcohol and other drugs that apply to all members of the Manhattan School of Music community and, as applicable, their guests are listed below. Federal, state, and local penalties may change and are adjusted to circumstances of the persons involved. Repeat offenders may be obligated to stiffer penalties than those listed.
LAW PENALTIES
Minimum Drinking Age Law (21) Fine—up to $50 Alcohol Awareness program 30 hours community service
Possession of Marijuana Persons over age 21 may possess up to 3 oz of marijuana and may smoke it anywhere that smoking is permitted (note: MSM is a smoke-free campus).
Procurement of Alcohol and Serving Alcohol to those under 21 Fine—up to $200 Imprisonment—up to 5 days Suspension of liquor sales license and/or $1000 fine
False Identification Laws Fine—up to $100 Community Service Alcohol Awareness Program
Open Container/Public
Consumption Law Fine—$250 for first time violators, more for others
Driving While Intoxicated Fines—up to $1000 Driver’s license revoked for at least six months Imprisonment—up to 1 year
Driving While Ability Impaired Fine—up to $1000 Revocation of driver’s license for 90 days Imprisonment—up to 15 days
Zero Tolerance Law Fine—up to $225 Suspension of driver’s license for 6 months
Illegal Use, Possession and Distribution of Drugs Law Depends on amount and type of drug
Possession of 25g marijuana Fine of $500 Imprisonment—3 months
Possession of 1 mg LSD Imprisonment—15 years
Other: possession, use, distribution, sale, etc., of controlled substances and other illegal substances Depends on amount and type of drug
Fines—up to $100,000 for first offence Imprisonment—at least 15 days, up to 2 years Forfeiture of property possible Forfeiture of federal benefits such as student loans possible Forfeiture of federal licenses and benefits possible
General Obligations Law
Anyone involved in selling, procuring, or providing controlled substances, illegal drugs, or alcohol for others may face civil liability if injuries result in a situation with the impaired individual. Those helping those under 21 or those already intoxicated to obtain alcohol may be liable for injuries to the individual or others.
Harmful Effects of Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Manhattan School of Music believes that activities involving alcohol or illegal drugs have the potential to damage the quality of life at our institution in the following ways:
Manhattan School of Music discourages the irresponsible use of alcohol under any circumstances. Binge drinking—drinking several drinks in one sitting, often with the intent of getting drunk—is significantly associated with reduced academic/musical performance, property damage, injury (to oneself or others), and sexual assault. The use of drugs and alcohol adversely affects the student and employee’s health and is potentially a safety hazard to coworkers and other students. Persons will be held fully accountable for any actions they may take while intoxicated which violate the School’s standards of individual and group conduct.
The use of alcohol and all drugs, regardless of type, presents the risk of physical or psychological dependency. Every effort will be made by the School to help a student or an employee seeking and undertaking treatment or rehabilitation, although the decision to accept treatment is the responsibility of the employee or student. Individuals who do suffer from alcohol and drug addiction are not alone and can be helped. Students should see the Campus Health Nurse, room 105 or visit the Counseling Center, room 104 &106; employees should see the Vice President for Administration & Human Relations.
View the policy here.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their educational records. For more information, refer to the Course Catalog here.
The School notifies the community of an emergency using a combination of notification systems, including our fire alarm systems, P.A. announcements, personal notifications, website postings, and electronic notifications. However, due to the fast-moving nature of the event, it may not be possible to notify all building occupants in a timely manner. Therefore, evacuation may be prompted by fire alarms or notification from building coordinators, law enforcement, or other building occupants that are aware of the immediate danger.
You do not have to wait for an official notification to evacuate. If you feel your safety is in jeopardy and evacuating is an appropriate strategy given your circumstances, feel free to evacuate without official notification.
Fire alarms are tested on a routine basis, and the school will make best efforts to inform the community in advance of such testing.
The School and the State of New York prohibit the tampering with, removal of, setting off, or damage to fire equipment or alarm systems in the school building when no fire or immediate danger of fire exists. Violations of other campus safety regulations are also prohibited by this section. These include but are not limited to:
At the discretion of the school’s administration, sanctions may be imposed on a student found by the school to have improperly used fire alarm systems or equipment.
Evacuation means to exit a facility as directly and safely as possible. Evacuation is appropriate when conditions inside a structure pose a threat to the health and safety of building occupants, and leaving the facility is safer than remaining inside of it. Fire or unsafe conditions within a building are examples of situations in which evacuation may be necessary.
Evacuation should occur through the nearest exit but, depending on the circumstances, an alternate or secondary evacuation route may need to be used. Do not use the elevators during an emergency situation. Follow directions of authorized emergency personnel.
Strategies for an Effective Evacuation
The goal of evacuation is to leave the premises as quickly and safely as possible. The following strategies MAY promote an effective evacuation:
DO NOT USE ELEVATORS unless directed to by law enforcement or School emergency personnel.
Food and drinks are available for sale in the MSM Cafeteria.
Food and drinks are not allowed on any pianos or any other instruments in any room in the building. Food and drinks are prohibited from certain areas of the campus: Greenfield Hall, Miller Recital Hall, Ades Performance Space, Bossi-Comelli Studio, Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Pforzheimer, Mikowsky Hall, Myers Recording Studio, Rahm Hall, piano lab, the libraries, Room 707, and during classes. Bottled water will be allowed in most areas of the building except the piano labs, library and the electronic studios, and some performance spaces. Students are asked to adhere to this policy with the necessary respect for the School’s property.
The Manhattan School of Music Good Samaritan policy is designed to protect the health and lives of students who over-consume alcohol/drugs to the point of needing medical help by assuring them that they will not be subject to disciplinary actions for obtaining that help.
It is imperative that someone call for medical assistance when an individual(s) experiences severe intoxication or a serious injury after consuming alcohol/drugs. People may be reluctant to seek help in such alcohol/drug-related emergencies because of potential judicial consequences for themselves, the person in need of assistance, or the organization hosting the event where the situation occurs. Since these emergencies are potentially life threatening, Manhattan School of Music seeks to reduce barriers to seeking assistance.
New York State Requirements for Attendance- Immunizations
New York State Public Health Law 2165 passed in June 1989 requires post-secondary students to demonstrate proof of immunization against measles, mumps, and rubella. The law applies to students born on or after January 1, 1957. Proof must be on file in the Registrar’s Office before entering the residence hall or starting enrollment for the academic year. Students without the proper immunity papers on file will not be allowed to attend or register for classes or enter a residence hall until immunization documents are received and approved by the Registrar. Students are encouraged to receive these vaccinations as well as a meningitis vaccination prior to their arrival. See the Admission Office for vaccination locations in New York.
Measles: Students must submit proof of immunity to measles. One of the following is required:
Mumps: Students must submit proof of immunity to mumps. One of the following is required:
Rubella: Students must submit proof of immunity to rubella. One of the following is required:
Meningococcal Disease: The institution is required to maintain a record of the following for each student:
Student performances and activities form an integral part of the educational program at Manhattan School of Music. The School owns the rights to images and performances that are organized or take place under the auspices of Manhattan School of Music.
All students accept the following statement when they accept enrollment at MSM: By enrolling as a student at Manhattan School of Music, I understand that my consent is given for media recording and release, broadcast, use, reproduction or publication, now or in the future, by Manhattan School of Music, of any image photographed or any material recorded at or under the direction of the School. Such consent includes, but is not limited to, the right to use, without compensation, a student’s name, image, likeness, voice or performance for any purpose connected to the mission of the School.
Manhattan School of Music is committed to student health and to the safe use of prescription medications. Students who are prescribed medications are the only individuals permitted to use them, as prescribed, and are responsible for monitoring and securing their own medications. The usual elements and requirements of the Manhattan School of Music Drug and Alcohol Policy still apply in cases where a student has a medical marijuana prescription. Because Manhattan School of Music does not allow any form of marijuana in the form of smoking or vaping, any paraphernalia designed or used to ingest illegal drugs, including (but not limited to) bongs, roach clips, hookahs, vaporizers or pipes are not permitted in the residence hall. The use of synthetic substances or other items ingested for intoxication effect is also prohibited. If found, these items will be confiscated and not returned to the student. Providing illicit drugs, prescription medication, or other intoxicant to another, whether sharing, selling or trading, constitutes distribution, is unlawful and subject to disciplinary action, with sanctions up to or including expulsion.
Students who are prescribed medical marijuana must be prescribed under New York State Law. Licenses from states other than New York are not recognized at Manhattan School of Music. The School prohibits students from bringing medicinal marijuana prescribed in other states on campus or in the residence hall.
If a student has a prescription in the State of New York, that student is allowed to have and use medical marijuana in Andersen Hall under the following conditions:
View the MSM Title IX/Sexual Misconduct Policy here.
PERSONAL AUDIO RECORDING POLICY: All concerts, events, and student recitals at MSM are audio-recorded by the Orto Center for Distance Learning and Recording Arts facility and its staff only. Personal audio recording is strictly prohibited.
PERSONAL LIVE STREAMING POLICY: Real-time personal live streaming or broadcast of any MSM student recital, concert, or event is strictly prohibited.
PERSONAL VIDEO RECORDING POLICY FOR MSM STUDENT RECITALS: MSM’s Recording Arts Department offers professional audio and video recording services for MSM student recitals. Students may also elect to personally video record an MSM student recital in any venue using a single camera on a tripod or a smartphone/tablet. No advanced approval or request form is required for MSM student recital personal video recording.
Personal video recording must be done in accordance with the Equipment & Venue Policies listed below. Patrons recording with these devices will be asked to move to the back row or behind the final row of patrons in attendance.
Recorded material from MSM student recitals may be posted online in accordance with the Personal Use Terms of Agreement below which outline a student’s legal and institutional responsibilities when posting material online.
PERSONAL VIDEO RECORDING POLICY FOR MSM INSTITUTIONAL PERFORMANCES AND EVENTS: Personal video recording of MSM institutional performances and events is strictly prohibited. This includes recording with a smartphone or tablet.
Occasional student exceptions may be made only after a student receives advanced written permission from the Orto Center for Distance Learning and Recording Arts via the Video Recording Agreement Form for MSM Performances and Events. This form is administered by the Orto Center in Room 312.
If advance approval is granted, personal video recording must be done in accordance with the Equipment & Venue Policies listed below and recorded video material may be used for personal (non-commercial) use only in accordance with the Personal Use Terms of Agreement below.
EQUIPMENT & VENUE POLICIES FOR APPROVED PERSONAL VIDEO RECORDING:
PERSONAL USE TERMS OF AGREEMENT FOR APPROVED PERSONAL VIDEO RECORDING:
The student agrees not to duplicate, sell, or distribute said video recording for premium or commercial purposes now or at any future date, on any form now or later known or developed, collectively termed “Media” (i.e. photography, print media/advertisement, video media, DVD, Blu-ray, film, television, video game, cell phone, computer storage/memory, the World Wide Web, or otherwise on the Internet, Extranet or Intranet). The student further agrees that the video recording will not be used for any litigation purpose.
The personal use of recorded video material is limited to the following:
If you are performing or composing a piece that calls for prepared or extended use, the following practice rooms are available: Rooms 422, 423, and 424 in the School Rooms 2-O and 2-P in Andersen Residence Hall
For assistance, please contact Piano Technical Services at 917-493-4425, pianotech@lists.msmnyc.edu, or Facilities at 917-493-4448.
The advertising, marketing, or merchandising of credit cards to Manhattan School of Music students is prohibited. As needed, Manhattan School of Music will educate students about good credit management practices through workshops, seminars, discussion groups, film presentations, or other means.
View the Scheduling and Practice Policies here.
Manhattan School of Music, in compliance with the New York Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act of 2000, makes the following information available to the university community in order to afford the community with the opportunity to be aware of the condition of their environment concerning known sex offenders. This information is not to be used in any other fashion or for any other purpose. The Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act description is listed below.
The Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, CSCPA, supplemented the Wetterling Act’s general standards for sex offender registration and community notification programs by enacting provisions which are more specifically designed to ensure that the members of campus communities have information available concerning the presence of registered sex offenders.
Manhattan School of Music will work with the 26th Precinct New York City Police Department to appropriately deal with situations related to registered sex offenders. Information about registered sex offenders can be obtained by the computer network address listed below.
New York State’s website for registered sex offenders is: http://www.criminaljustice.ny.gov/nsor/
This site contains the New York State Sex Offender Registry information center. The following information is quoted from the site.
Registered sex offenders in New York are classified by the risk of reoffense. A court determines whether an offender is a level 1 (low risk), 2 (moderate risk) or 3 (high risk). The court also determines whether an offender should be given the designation of a sexual predator, sexually violent offender or predicate sex offender. Sex offenders registered on or after March 11, 2002 register for a minimum of 10 years unless they have been given a designation. If they have been given a designation, they register for life. Level 1 and 2 sex offenders registered prior to March 11, 2002 register for 10 years while level 3 offenders register for life.
Registered sex offenders must identify themselves to the Human Relations and Administration Office, the Admissions Office, Dean of Students Office, and the 26th Precinct before visiting any Manhattan School of Music institutional events or buildings. In addition, anyone applying for enrollment or a position on campus must self-identify as a sex offender and register with all the appropriate and required authorities including the 26th precinct and Manhattan School of Music.
The FERPA amendment makes it clear that FERPA does not prevent educational institutions from disclosing information about registered sex offenders enrollment or employment at institutions of higher education.
Manhattan School of Music’s commitment to provide a positive work and learning environment for all members of the MSM community extends to its Smoking Policy, which recognizes that all forms of tobacco products, including smokeless forms and e-cigarettes, pose serious health risks both to direct tobacco users and to those whose exposure is secondhand. The following policy has been enacted to address these concerns.
Smoking is prohibited in every area, without exception, within school-owned buildings; these include the student residence hall at 134 Claremont Avenue and the main building at 130 Claremont Avenue. Smoking is also prohibited outdoors within the confines of the campus; this includes terraces and outdoor dining areas. For those who go outside the perimeter to smoke, do not smoke within at least 50 feet from MSM entrances. Even in outdoor areas in which smoking is permitted, please be mindful of your proximity to office and residence hall windows, and to those passing by. If, for some reason, outdoor smoking raises issues for individuals within the School’s buildings, smokers may be asked to move further away from our buildings.
The areas near the School’s entrances and exits on Claremont Avenue have also been designated as No Smoking areas. Smoking is permitted around the corner on Broadway just north of 122nd Street and across the street from the School’s campus on Claremont Avenue.
MSM is committed to assisting employees and students in making healthy lifestyle choices and reducing or ceasing smoking. Students are invited to visit the Office of Student Affairs for information on (and assistance with) smoking cessation programs, while interested employees may obtain information from the Office of Administration and Human Relations. In addition, all residents of New York State can access related services via the New York State Quitline at 1-866-697-8487 or nysmokefree.com
Employees are protected from retaliatory action or from being subjected to any adverse personal action for exercising or attempting to exercise their rights under the Smoking Policy. Any violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including discharge.
Any questions regarding the Smoking Policy should be directed to the Vice President for Administration and Human Relations.
In the interest of maintaining a proper business and academic environment and preventing interference with work, learning, and causing inconvenience to others, no individual or group may distribute literature or printed materials of any kind, sell merchandise, solicit financial contributions, or solicit for any other cause without the express authorization of a member of the Manhattan School of Music administration. This includes but is not limited to electronic communication, phone solicitation, and personal contact. Unauthorized solicitation should be reported promptly to the Office of Student Engagement or the Vice President for Administration and Human Relations. Students wishing to post or distribute flyers should contact the Office of Student Engagement for approval.
The School will not tolerate acts of violence to other persons by individuals or groups. Actions with reckless disregard for human life and safety or any act which places a person in fear or which has the effect of harassing or intimidating a person will not be tolerated. At the discretion of the School’s administration, a sanction up to and including suspension or expulsion may be imposed on a student found by the school to have committed such a violation on- or off-campus in accordance with the Code of Conduct and the Campus Judicial Process. By law, all violent felony offenses (excluding sexual offenses) on MSM property must be reported to law enforcement within 24 hours of being reported to the Institution.
Investigation of Violent Felony Offenses and Missing Persons
Manhattan School of Music works closely with the New York City 26th Precinct to investigate alleged violent felony offenses occurring at the school. There will be a coordinated effort to investigate alleged crimes and share information as appropriate. There will be a prompt investigation of all reports of violent felony offenses, as well as of missing students.
Missing Student Notification Policy and Procedures
The term “missing student,” for the purposes of this plan, shall refer to any Manhattan School of Music student, who resides in Andersen Hall, who has not been seen by friends, or associates, for a reasonable length of time, whose whereabouts has been questioned and brought to the attention of a member of the Student Affairs staff, including resident assistants. The School will initiate the following procedure once advised that a student is missing, with no reasonable explanation for his/her absence. Ordinarily, the procedure will be initiated after at least a 24-hour period will have elapsed after a normal or scheduled event for which the student’s presence has been expected. However, the School may waive the 24-hour period if circumstances warrant.
When registering online at the start of the Fall semester, students will be asked to identify a missing person contact person, whom the School shall notify if the student is determined missing. this contact information will be confidential and will be accessible only to authorized campus officials. In addition, the contact information shall not be disclosed, except to law enforcement personnel in furtherance of a missing person investigation.
In addition to the designated missing person contact, parents of students who are under 18 years of age and not emancipated will also be contacted if such student is missing.
Procedure
All students have the right to:
To File a Report of Sexual Misconduct contact Carol Matos, Title IX Coordinator at cmatos@msmnyc.edu or call her at 917-493-4450. Outside of regular business hours please call April Jenkins at 917-376-2418 or 917-683-7864. To discuss your options in a confidential manner please see MSM’s Campus Health Nurse or any staff member in the Counseling Center.
You can view the Student Grievance Resolution Process here.
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