KATHY AND MARK GRIER CONSERVATORY AND PRE-COLLEGE MUSIC PROGRAM
The Kathy and Mark Grier Conservatory Division at Newark School of the Arts is a full-day Saturday pre-college music program for students up to the age of 18.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Kathy and Mark Grier Conservatory at Newark School of the Arts was established to instill in young people a lifelong appreciation for music by providing college-level music education, training, and performance opportunities, all at a low cost. A deep understanding of music from different cultures will provide an expanded worldview.
DIRECTOR’S WELCOME
On behalf of our dedicated faculty and staff, I extend a warm welcome to the Newark School of the Arts community. We are honored to become part of your artistic journey and excited to support your growth as a creative individual, passionate learner, and engaged member of our global society.
Our students arrive with diverse backgrounds and varying levels of experience—some taking their first tentative steps into the arts, others already showing remarkable promise. What connects them all by the time they complete our program is the profound sense of confidence, artistic vision, and self-awareness they develop through their dedicated study with us.
The classical foundation we provide does far more than teach technique; it instills a discipline that becomes a cornerstone for success in every aspect of life. Our graduates consistently demonstrate this principle, going on to excel not only as artists but as leaders, innovators, and contributors in fields ranging from medicine and law to technology and education.
Having experienced this transformative program firsthand as a former member of the faculty, I can speak personally to the exceptional artistic standards NSA maintains. Our commitment to individual mentorship, combined with our rigorous yet nurturing approach to artistic development, creates an environment where students don't just learn—they flourish.
Whatever path lies ahead for you, we consider it a privilege to walk alongside you during this crucial phase of your artistic development. Your journey is unique, and we're here to help you discover not just what you can achieve, but who you can become.
Welcome to your artistic home away from home.
With enthusiasm for the journey ahead,
James A. Manno
Director, Newark School of the Arts
jmanno@newarkschoolofthearts.org
NJPAC JEFFREY CAROLLO AND FRANK CALABRESE MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP
The Jeffrey Carollo and Frank Calabrese Music Scholarship in partnership with the New Jersey Performing Arts Center provides financial assistance to advanced students who study classical vocal and instrumental music at the Newark School of the Arts.
If you are a student of classical vocal or instrumental music, you may be eligible for financial assistance through the NJPAC Jeffrey Carollo and Frank Calabrese Music Scholarship at The Newark School of the Arts.
PROGRAM INFORMATION
Ages: 18 and under
New Jersey Residents only
Program Dates: September – June
Class Times: Two days per week
Levels: Intermediate to Advanced
Tuition: Scholarship pays for one private lesson per week.
Scholarships are available for strings, woodwinds, select brass, piano, and voice.
Scholarships will be based on talent and potential. Financial need may be a consideration in the amount of the scholarship award.
Scholarships enable the recipient to attend classes after school, in the evenings, and/or on Saturdays at the Newark School of the Arts.
Classes include private lessons, music theory, history, and chamber music.
Annual performance of all scholarship recipients will be at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center each spring.
2024-2025 PROGRAM AUDITIONS:
TBA
Auditions will be held at Newark School of the Arts.
Audition Requirements
Students must be recommended by a music teacher (private instructor or public/private school teacher).
Students must complete the application form and be present at the audition. A student interview will be conducted on the day of the audition. Students may be required to sight-read.
Piano and Strings: Two contrasting pieces, three major and three minor scales and arpeggios of their choice. Both pieces must be memorized.
Woodwinds and Brass: Two contrasting pieces, two major and minor scales of their choice.
Voice: Two contrasting songs, one must be sung in English and one in Italian. Both pieces must be memorized.
The Perks
2 Private lessons per week at Newark School of the Arts
Study with distinguished faculty
Performance opportunities at NJPAC
Master Classes with renowned artists
Pre-College Level Music Theory Course
Pre-College Level Music History Course
Pre-College Level Music Business Course
Gifted young artists are strongly encouraged to apply.
Interested students should email James Manno at: jmanno@newarkschoolofthearts.org
Letter of recommendation (Click here to download form)