In 1964, internationally acclaimed concert soprano Dorothy Maynor, brought a gift to Harlem – her fervent belief that world-class training in the arts stimulates the child, strengthens the family and gives pride of ownership to a community. After nearly a half-century, the mission of the Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) continues to enrich the lives of young people and their families in Harlem and the greater New York City area through unrivaled on-site instruction, essential partnerships with NYC schools, presenting community concerts, performances and programs, and providing workspaces for aspiring artists. HSA stands apart among the major arts institutions in New York City, as the sole provider of arts education in 4 disciplines - music, dance, theater and visual arts – in an award-winning 37,000 square foot facility nestled at the base of Harlem's historic Hamilton Heights district.
HSA offers its students access to the arts and the freedom to discover and develop the artist and citizen within themselves in an environment that emphasizes rigorous training, stimulates creativity, builds self-confidence, and adds a dimension of beauty to their lives, empowering them to become the creative thinkers and innovative leaders of tomorrow.