The Harlem School of the Arts
*The Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) was celebrated on this date in 1964.
Soprano Dorothy Maynor founded the school in the basement of the St. James Presbyterian Church in Harlem when the community suffered severe physical blight, high levels of poverty, and few cultural resources for its young people. As it grew, the school was featured in the May 1966 issue of EBONY Magazine.
Courses
The school offers courses in four disciplines: music, theatre, visual arts, and dance. Music courses include classical, jazz, gospel, R&B, electronic, and world music. Dance courses include ballet, modern, ethnic, jazz, and tap dance. In addition to theater classes, the visual art department offers sculpture and photography (digital and film) courses.
Mezzo-soprano Betty Allen succeeded Maynor as President in 1979 when a new 37,000-square-foot facility was completed. Other presidents included Allicia Adams, Camille Akjeu, Daryl Durham., and Eric G. Currently, Lisa Davis and Kenneth W. Taber act as Interim Co-Chairs. In 2005, the school was among 406 New York City arts and social service institutions to receive part of a $20 million grant from the Carnegie Corporation, which was made possible through a donation by then-New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
Despite the Recession of 2010, the Harlem School of the Arts stabilized its fiscal position following a $6 million gift. The school's students are of diverse cultural backgrounds, with more than 85% being African American or Latino. HSA provides financial aid on a first-come, first-served basis through the generous donations of the Herb Alpert Foundation and other generous benefactors.
The school also offers private lessons in various disciplines, including multiple instruments, dance, digital art, animation, cinematography, and acting.
To Become a Dancer and Choreographer
To Become a Designer
To become an Art Director
To become an Actor or Actress
To Become a musician or Singer
To Become a Conductor or Composer
