So you think you want to attend a performing arts high school in NYC or at least add it to your choice list? Great.
Did you know? Performing Arts Schools graduates may or may not pursue a professional career in the arts. These schools are great foundations for careers that require communication and collaboration skills such as business, human resources, law, education and many more. Don't count out a performing arts school even if you want to pursue a different career outside the arts. Performing arts schools attract hardworking, collaborative students and faculty communities that can make your high school experience truly special.
Most performing arts high schools in NYC attract excellence in performing arts and academics so you'll need to have strong grades and a love for the art that you perform. You also need to prepare an audition. The 2022-2023 auditions will most likely be virtual but you'll need to look at each individual school website to see the EXACT criteria for auditioning. Join the mailing lists and check websites often.
Chose a song you love that you can perform well on video. Learn and memorize it. Be sure the pitches and rhythms are clear and that your love of performance comes across on the video. Plan to take several videos and critique your work along the way.
As a vocalist, listen to an artist you love or musicals that you love and find an appropriate song. You will be preparing a 1-2 minute video. Ms. Heidi Best, a vocal teacher at Frank Sinatra HS in Queens, recommends finding a musical theater piece that you do well, that shows your personality and shows your love of your craft. Make sure your excerpt shows a high note or a vocal skill that will make you stand out.
Practice your song, memorize it, hone your craft and improve it along the way and you too can attend a performing arts HS and have a truly exceptional HS experience and create a community of friends to last a lifetime.
These high schools require auditions and are currently updating their audition process for 2022-23 school year. Plan for virtual, but be ready for live auditions. Each school will announce the process. Video audition tips here.
100 Amsterdam Ave., Manhattan
35-12 35th St., Queens
300 E. 68th St., Manhattan
328 W. 48th St., Manhattan
123 W. 43rd St., Manhattan
2780 Reservoir Ave., Bronx
500 E. Fordham Rd, Bronx
2225 Webster Ave., Bronx
101 Park Ave., Brooklyn