Application Process for the 2023-24 School Year
All families applying for kindergarten are required to apply through the NYC Department of Education’s kindergarten application at (myschools.nyc). The deadline has passed. We are no longer accepting applications this season. Kindergarten will be aligned with the admissions cycle of the Department of Education. Questions about the kindergarten application process should be directed to esenrollment@schools.nyc.gov or by calling 212 935 2009.
All families applying for 1st grade should complete this form.
1st grade application deadline: The deadline has passed. We are no longer accepting applications this season.
All families applying for 2nd-8th grade: The deadline has passed. We are no longer accepting applications this season. In addition to completing the Kaufman Music Center application, all 6th grade middle school applicants must fill out a middle school application through the DOE at www.myschools.nyc.
All 6th grade applicants should visit this DOE website for application and audition details.
6th grade applicants should follow the guidance there; all 6th graders must upload 2 videos for a virtual first round of auditions. Special Music School will contact 6th grade applicants who advance to a second round of live, in-person auditions on February 8, 2023.
6th Grade video application deadline: The deadline has passed. We are no longer accepting applications this season.
2nd-5th grade, 7th, and 8th grade application deadline: The deadline has passed. We are no longer accepting applications this season.
Questions about the 1st-8th grade application process should be directed to admissions@specialmusicschool.org.
All Kindergarten and 1st grade applicants will receive their assessment time and dates beginning early January 2023, with assessments beginning late January 2023 at Special Music School.
Auditions for admission to grades 2-8 will take place on the following date:
- March 28 & 29 - 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 7th & 8th Grade Applicant Auditions
We do not accept auditions in voice, guitar, ukulele, percussion/drums, saxophone, composition or harp. We offer the following instrument majors within K-8: violin, viola, cello, bass, piano, French horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, flute, oboe, clarinet, and bassoon.
Assessment and Audition Information
Grades K-1
Researchers, expert practitioners in early childhood education, and master musicians have worked to develop a reliable and valid measure of musical aptitude for use by Special Music School. This assessment includes hands-on, interactive musical tasks that focus on the child’s perception and performance. This assessment attempts to avoid cultural bias and is not dependent on prior music training. Through direct, systematic observation, data will be collected that will help us to evaluate your child’s musical potential, and his or her ability and desire to participate in an intensive musical program.
Grades 2-8
The audition will include prepared pieces, scales, and may include sight reading and a brief ear training test. Students who do exceptionally well on the audition may be invited to interview for the school. Students in grades 4-8 may be asked to take a diagnostic theory placement exam, which will have no bearing on deciding admissions decisions.