July 30, 2025

Orientation at Manhattan School of Music takes place from August 25–September 4, 2025. It’s a great way for new students arriving at MSM to settle in, get to know New York City, and make new friends!

The week consists of many social activities such as a sunset cruise around the tip of Manhattan (photo above from Orientation 2024!), a smoothie social in the president’s residence, and visits to iconic sites in New York City. And there are helpful and informative meetings to assist students in adjusting to the School.

Jesse Goldberg, the Director of Student Engagement at MSM, explains what Orientation at MSM is all about and shares what are her highlights of this action-packed time.

And you can find the full schedule of Orientation events here:

What is Orientation at MSM?

Jesse: MSM’s Orientation is an immersion for our incoming students into MSM’s environment, NYC surroundings, and community. During Orientation, students have the opportunity to complete any outstanding paperwork, learn about Manhattan School of Music’s programs and resources, participate in departmental auditions, and explore campus life and New York City. We love having this time with our incoming classes, and look forward each year to getting to know our new students and learn more about how they will help enrich and grow MSM’s community.

Can you tell us about the highlights?

Jesse: One of the best days of the year at MSM is our Move-in Day, which takes place on August 25. The energy and excitement on campus is palpable, and members from offices all across MSM gather to welcome students, ensure they are all set for a smooth start to the semester, and help them get settled in their new environment.

Our Orientation Leaders and Resident Assistants help unload cars, direct students to check-in stations, and help answer questions from families. This year, keep an eye out for folks in purple shirts, who will be easy to spot and can help answer questions you may have!

In addition to Move-in Day, we always look forward to Convocation, which takes place on the afternoon of the 25th. Convocation is our ceremony welcoming our incoming students to MSM, and taking time to celebrate this next step in their educational journey along with their family members. It always includes a welcome from our Orientation Assistant, the President of our Student Organization Association, a video welcome from our Orientation Team, and a performance by current students.

Another crowd favorite is our Welcome Cruise, which will take place on Friday August 29. MSM incoming students gather together for an unforgettable sunset tour around NYC with a DJ, dancing, and stunning views. We even pass by the School and get to peek at Grant’s tomb, which is often lit up in vivid colors! Manny our mascot often makes an appearance, and President Gandre and Provost Griggs join the students for what is always a beautiful event.

There are a lot of fun events that take place allowing students to get to know the city and make new friends. Can you tell us about them?

Jesse: There are so many fun New York City explorations taking place this year! Some of my favorite include our Broadway show night, where students can choose to see MJ, Hell’s Kitchen, or the Buena Vista Social Club, our Thrift Crawl through Chelsea and the FIT area, our Dessert Crawl and Bagel Outings right here in Morningside Heights, and our Jazz Jam Night at the Craftsman!

Our goal is to help students who may be coming to the city for the first time feel comfortable going out and exploring, and giving them a taste of what it feels like to navigate the subway. Our Orientation Leaders guide groups of students through these events.

Why do you think Orientation is so important?

Jesse: Orientation gives students the chance to build a strong foundation before the full pace of conservatory life begins. It’s a time to connect with peers, get to know the support systems available, and feel grounded in both the MSM community and the broader NYC landscape.

These tools are important at any school, but are especially important in a place as dynamic and complex as a conservatory in New York City; having an early sense of belonging and clarity makes a real difference.

What are the questions you get asked the most about Orientation?

Jesse: “Do I really have to go to those mandatory presentations” is a common one—and yes, it is very important for students to attend all mandatory trainings! This information may seem like a lot, but is important onboarding information for the School and for NYC.

What would you like students to know who’ll be at Orientation?

Jesse: Most importantly, I would like students to know that we can’t wait to greet them, and that we have had so much fun planning these events! Orientation Assistant Astrid has been working hard all summer to help come up with an engaging and exciting schedule, with something for everyone! We can’t wait to have you join us and start your journey at MSM.

What do you like most about it?

Jesse: My favorite part of Orientation is getting a chance to put faces with the names we see all Summer long as we prepare for new student arrival. I can’t wait to meet everyone, and to see what events folks gravitate to!