The Hangout is a free drop-in after-school program at Neighborhood Music School (NMS), created especially for high school students. It’s a creative lounge where students can grab a snack, work on homework or school projects, make art and music, connect with other young people, or simply relax. Students can join us on any Tuesday or Wednesday at any time during program hours (between 3pm and
6pm).
Students are welcome to work independently or collaborate with others. With regular participation, students can also coordinate times to use NMS practice rooms and studios as rehearsal spaces, or arrange time in the NMS Recording Studio.
Students are always welcome to simply hang out while waiting for a ride, meeting up with friends, or passing time before an evening activity like a music lesson or dance class.
Our hope is that The Hangout becomes a safe, welcoming “third space” for high schoolers — a place where young people interested in the arts can build community, explore their creativity, and feel at home.
You - the students! All high school students are welcome! You do not have to be enrolled in activities at NMS.
The Hangout grew out of a need we observed for high school students to have a safe, welcoming place to spend time, connect, and be themselves. The program is still in its early stages, and we want it to grow alongside the students who participate. Student interests, ideas, and feedback will help shape what The Hangout becomes.
Every Tuesday & Wednesday, 3–6 p.m. in Larry’s Space, (1st floor) at Neighborhood Music School
The Hangout is a drop-in program, so students can join us on any Tuesday or Wednesday duringprogram hours. No ongoing enrollment is required.
When students visit, they’ll sign in with:
Trey Moore — Lead Hangout Coordinator
Trey Moore, founder of Seeing Sounds and a longtime NMS partner, leads The Hangout. A New Haven native and local artist, Trey is passionate about creating spaces and building networks that support artists and young creatives.
Students at The Hangout can expect a mentor who is patient, encouraging, creative, and genuinely invested in helping young people explore their ideas and find their voice. Learn more about Trey and Seeing Sounds.
Briana Louis & Jenny Nelson — Support Team
Briana Louis, NMS Creative Youth Development Program Coordinator, and Jenny Nelson, NMS Director of Programs, coordinate and manage The Hangout in collaboration with Trey.
To connect with The Hangout Team reach out to thehangout@nmsnewhaven.org
Funding for this program is provided by The Yale and New Haven Community Fund.
