Dear NMS Community, As I stepped out of my house the other day, and saw the buds on the tree in my front yard, I felt the promise of what was to come, but I knew more still needed to happen inside that tree before its full beauty was on display. During this very hard year of not knowing what’s …

Prepare, support, and celebrate! Here’s how to make the most of your child’s online lessons: 1. Help your child make a smooth transition at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the lesson Provide a pre-lesson snack Wash hands Have the instrument, music, and a pencil with an eraser ready Have the computer/tablet set up with the camera positioned …

When trying to find the right dance class for your child (or yourself!), the cost of tuition is an important factor. Be careful when you compare the tuition at one dance studio to the tuition at another, as many dance studios have substantial required fees above and beyond tuition. At most dance studios in the greater New Haven area—not including Neighborhood Music School—the price for a ten-month, weekly hour-long dance class might range anywhere from...

Neighborhood Music School has a long history of Jazz programming. Our world renowned faculty leads ensembles for all levels of improvisers (including our Premier Jazz Ensemble), helping to produce a long history of CT All-State musicians. Our jazz alumni include Grammy-nominated musicians such as Christian Sands and Wayne Escoffery. We also produce engaging concerts and run a beloved Summer Jazz program. Jazz at NMS is alive and well. As you will learn in the stories below...

At Neighborhood Music School, we pride ourselves on supporting both our students and our faculty in their artistic growth. Meet student Reese Puchalski and faculty member Gretchen Hary, who both believe strongly that the connections they have made with others at NMS have inspired them—and enabled them—to grow.

Parents frequently ask music teachers for suggestions for how to help their child become more willing to practice, and how they can make the experience enjoyable and productive. Here are some suggestions and insights on how to make the whole process of practicing more satisfying for everyone involved.

Spontaneous music-making around our family piano was a key part of my musical upbringing. From popular parlor tunes from the 1890s, Irish tunes,1940s hits, the blues, to the Beatles, we would all jump in to play this cherished music by ear. And to sing loudly!When I was young, I thought every...

Covering a broad range of styles, our 21 composers (as young as four years old!) sent us videos, audio recordings, music notation, and lyrics. We even had an entrant from Sweden! Each and every song was uniquely endearing, and our judges had their work cut out for them. We are pleased to announce two winners for this competition...