At the core of Music in Schools is a partnership with the New Haven Public Schools.

The primary focus of the Initiative is on mentorship—a close, personal relationship between instructor and student—and active music-making—creating, performing, and responding to music. The Initiative enhances music opportunities for students and music educators in New Haven while simultaneously preparing students from YSM to be teaching artists.

We all share this really great passion for music, which is an amazing thing to have in common.
Jordan Lampo, Wilbur Cross High School Class of 2016, Yale College Class of 2020

More Information

For New Haven Public School Students

all-city morse academy

The Music in Schools Initiative, in collaboration with the New Haven Public Schools, offers programs for students in 4th through 12th grades (band and orchestra) and 3rd through 12th grades (choir).

The All-City Ensembles (band, choir, and orchestra) take place after school and are led by a team of music teachers from the New Haven Public Schools and Teaching Artists from the Yale School of Music.

The Morse Summer Music Academy is a monthlong summer program for intermediate and advanced musicians.

For New Haven Public School Music Educators

request now

Music educators from the New Haven Public Schools are at the core of the “music-learning ecosystem” that serves New Haven’s students. They are responsible for delivering high quality, sequential music instruction, often to hundreds of students each week. The Music in Schools Initiative is proud to partner with New Haven Public Schools to support district students and teachers.

Music educators are invited to request Teaching Artists from the Yale School of Music to support their students’ learning during the school day through the In-School Mentorship program. Music educators can also expand their students’ experiences by encouraging them to participate in the All-City Ensembles and the Morse Summer Music Academy. Click the link above to find the request form.

Music educators from the New Haven Public Schools also serve as conductors for the All-City Ensembles and Morse Academy. Music teachers who are interested in these opportunities should contact Rubén Rodríguez to learn more.

Eligibility

All programs are free for New Haven Public School students who:

  • attend a district school (Note: students who attend private/charter schools or schools outside New Haven are ineligible.)

  • are in or entering 4th through 12th grade (band/orchestra) or 3rd through 12th grade (choirs)

  • participate in their school’s music program and receive approval from their music teacher (where available)

  • study one of the following:

    • voice/choir

    • strings: violin, viola, cello, double bass

    • winds: flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon

    • brass: trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba

    • percussion

  • demonstrate musical accomplishment and enthusiasm

Students will be invited to audition after submitting an application.