Music Programs

Music Access Project

Bloomingdale’s signature program, the Music Access Project, is a three-year pre-college training program featuring high-quality instruction and personal mentoring.

Program Highlights

Since 1992, MAP has offered an intensive, yet nurturing musical environment, fostering professional and personal development, while providing guidance for students aspiring to gain entry into a university or conservatory. MAP is unique among music training programs in that it is targeted specifically to talented high school students who are unable to gain entry into similar programs due to high tuition costs and limited financial aid.

Bloomingdale’s MAP program targets the youth of NYC who posses the talent to compete on an elite musical level, but lack the resources and training necessary to channel their talent into something meaningful and lasting. BSM offers the majority of MAP students a full scholarship, worth roughly $6,000 per year. Each year, between 20 and 25 students are enrolled in the program. Since the program’s inception, over 200 students have graduated the program and 99% have gained entry to a conservatory, college, or university.

Weekly 60-minute private lessons

Extensive Performances

Program Mentorship

Our Alumni

In over 25 years of the MAP program, 200 students have graduated from the program and virtually all have gone on to college. Among the colleges attended by previous MAP graduates are Aaron Copland School of Music, Cornell University, Crane School of Music, Eastman School of Music, Indiana University, Ithaca College, Manhattan School of Music, Georgetown University, Mannes College, University of Michigan, New York University, Oberlin Conservatory, Princeton University, University of Rochester, Rutgers University, Skidmore College, State University of New York at Purchase, University of Chicago, Wheaton College, and Yale University.

MAP Alumni have an active Facebook page and gather formally every two years for a reunion at Bloomingdale and informally throughout their lives, building on the relationships and friends they have made during their time at BSM.

"I am truly grateful of how much this program has taught me. From musicality and techniques to time management. This school has practically become my second home."

Mei Y.

Music Access Project Student

see our students in action

Our students continue to amaze us. See what our students are doing and how they are developing into skilled musicians.

What you need to know

Interested candidates should obtain an application, complete it, and return it to the school. Applicants will then be contacted to schedule an audition. If, after the audition, you are selected to continue the process, an interview with you and a parent or guardian is also required.

Successful candidates will have identifiable talent, will have demonstrated achievement in their instrument, and will show a clear commitment to serious music study. The audition will consist of playing at least two contrasting pieces, at least two scales, and sight-reading.

STUDENT ELIGIBILITY

Have at least three years of experience on instrument
In 8th-11th grade at the time of their audition
Demonstrate achievement on their primary instrument
Seeking a more intensive music education program to propel them toward college training

application deadline

May 25

Audition date

Mid-Late May

Annual Tuition

MAP is free of charge to families that demonstrate financial need. Significant scholarships are also available to students who qualify by audition and interview.

APPLICATION FORM

Brochure

Questions and Information

Naho Parrini
Music Access Project Director
(212) 663-6021