Special Music School
M. 859 — Upper West Side, NYC
A intensive, inclusive music education for every child, fully funded alongside a top-tier academic program.
Grades K-12 • 300+ students • A public/private partnership where music and learning thrive together.
Principal Search
We're interviewing candidates for our next principal and welcome community input. Learn about the process →
About Our School
Where music and academics harmonize.
Founded in 1996 as a groundbreaking public/private partnership between Kaufman Music Center and NYC Public Schools, Special Music School offers students in grades K-12 an intensive, fully-funded music education alongside a rigorous academic curriculum. Every child receives daily music instruction, private lessons, and ensemble experience—all at no cost to families.
We believe that music transforms lives, fostering creativity, discipline, and community. Our diverse student body—from budding composers to virtuoso instrumentalists—learns in an environment where artistic excellence and academic achievement go hand in hand.
K-12
music program
taught
What We Offer
Our Programs
A world-class music education integrated with academics, open to all.
K-8 Music Program
Daily music classes, private lessons, and ensemble training in violin, cello, piano, woodwinds, brass, and more—all fully funded. Students develop technical skill and artistic expression from the earliest grades.
Explore K-8High School Concentrations
Choose from Instrumental, Vocal, or Composition tracks, with advanced coursework in music theory, history, and performance. Our high school prepares students for conservatories, universities, and professional careers in music.
Learn MoreAcademic Excellence
A college-preparatory curriculum that meets NYC Public Schools standards, with small class sizes and dedicated faculty. Music and academics are equally prioritized, ensuring students thrive in both.
See AcademicsMark Your Calendar
Upcoming Events
School events, PTA meetings, and important dates — all in one place.
A live events calendar, right here.
Your Google Calendar syncs straight into the site — tours, PTA meetings, and key dates update automatically, no re-typing. We wire this up when you come aboard.
Invest in our
children's future.
Your donation funds arts programs, teaching assistants, and school trips. Every dollar makes a difference for our students.