I recently had the privilege of watching our students perform in John L. Tishman Auditorium from one of my favorite locations: a spot hidden on the side of the theater, from which I could witness not only the brilliant artistry of the student orchestra, soloists, actors and jazz ensemble but also the impact this artistry was having on its audience—the wonder, delight, catharsis, and sense of shared humanity that live performance has the power to evoke. It was a striking reminder of what makes our community and the work we do so special. At the College of Performing Arts, students’ artistry, creativity, experimentation, and collaboration are nurtured and emboldened by a keen awareness of the colossal power performing artists have to affect the communities in which they live.
Our three schools—Mannes School of Music, the School of Jazz and Contemporary Music, and the School of Drama—form a vibrant, supportive, and diverse community in which expertise and innovation exist side by side. Our students flourish in this creative ecosystem, with opportunities to collaborate through performance, design, technology, and entrepreneurship, all under the guidance of a faculty including some of the most extraordinary artists transforming today’s performing arts industries.
Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, our college draws inspiration from the city itself. Whether in rehearsal rooms or classrooms at Arnhold Hall or on Bank Street, or on stages across New York City, students challenge themselves and one another to take risks, experiment, and grow—not only as artists but as leaders ready to play vital roles in the creation of a new world.
Having been a part of this community for the past 15 years, I am continually awed and inspired by the energy, talent, and imagination I see every day. I invite you to visit, attend a performance, or explore our programs to experience the passion and creativity that define The New School’s College of Performing Arts.
Stephen Brown-Fried, Executive Dean
The New School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.