HSA Pre-Prep Program
HSA Pre-Prep Program
Every Pre-Prep Program student receives a full-tuition scholarship for all HSA classes. Upon acceptance to the program, each student and their parent/guardian receive an Award Letter, Code of Conduct, and will be billed for their $450 registration fee as well as department-related exhibition, performance, or costume fees.
Students in the HSA Pre-Prep Program receive rigorous training that is meant to prepare them for advancing into arts-specialized high schools as well as potential transitions into the HSA Prep Program for seasoned students aged 13-18 years old. To receive a well-rounded education with our world-class teaching artists, students must commit to their entire Prep Schedule. During the year they participate in individual and group projects, ensembles, exhibitions, and trips and receive exposure to the art world as young working professionals.
HSA’s Pre-Prep Program enriches its students in the arts and in their academic ventures. During their time at HSA, students receive support for high school preparation. Many of our students seek mentorship from our Department Directors and teaching artists who help support their artistic academic ventures through one-on-one lessons, audition preparation, and portfolio reviews.
Each student in the HSA Pre-Prep Program receives a schedule tailored to their artistic growth. Depending on the department, students will be enrolled in a combination of required classes, private lessons, and electives. Take a glance at a mock schedule here!
For questions about the Pre-Prep Program please contact prep@hsanyc.org
Dance: August 16, 2025
Media & Design Portfolio Deadline: August 17, 2025, at 11:59 PM
Media & Design Interviews: August 18 – 22, 2025
Music: August 26-28, 2025
Theater & Musical Theater: August 22, 2025
Audition Details
For the audition, dancers are required to wear a leotard and tights in any color. Please bring ballet slippers, sneakers, and jazz shoes. Hair should be styled in a high or low bun for ladies. All participants must arrive 30 minutes prior to their scheduled audition time. Please note that lateness will be taken into account during the audition process, and audition age groups are specified in the application. Students who are unable to attend the HSA Dance Prep & Pre-Prep audition may be considered for the program by participating in the HSA Summer Dance Intensive, but this must be discussed and approved in advance by the Dance Director.
For the audition, students are required to schedule their interviews using the link provided in the Application Form. As part of the submission requirements, applicants must provide 5 to 7 samples of original artwork. Submissions can be uploaded directly through the provided platform or dropped off in person. For in-person portfolio drop-off, please email prep@hsanyc.org to make arrangements. Uploaded artwork must be in JPG or PDF format, with a minimum resolution of 150 dpi. Each image should be clearly labeled with your first name, last name, and submission number (for example: Jane Doe, submission1).
For the audition, please provide a headshot and resume, and prepare two contrasting monologues—such as one classical and one contemporary—each lasting between one and two minutes. Sample monologues are included with the interview booking for your reference.
For the audition, students will prepare to play two contrasting works of their own choice. Please note that you might be stopped midway through due to limited time and will be asked to engage in a conversation about your experience in music.
For the audition, please provide a headshot and resume, and prepare one contemporary monologue (1–2 minutes in length) along with one 16-bar song in any style. Sample monologues are attached to the interview booking for your reference.
Hear What Our Students Say
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Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) Dance immerses students in Harlem's rich dance history, offering programs in ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap, hip-hop, and African dance.
Discover HSA DanceHSA Media & Design celebrates Harlem’s legendary artists through a powerful curriculum facilitated by a positive, supportive faculty who inspire participant creativity, confidence and communication.
Discover HSA Media & DesignHSA Music stands on the shoulders of the Harlem Renaissance and some of the greatest musical artists the world has ever known.
Discover HSA MusicHSA Musical Theatre introduces the fundamentals of musical theater to young actors.
Discover HSA Musical TheatreHSA Theatre houses young performers from a long line of actors. From Paul Robeson to Ethel Waters, the Harlem Renaissance provided opportunities for artists to speak their truth and stand in their light.
Discover HSA Theatre
Dance
Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) Dance immerses students in Harlem's rich dance history, offering programs in ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap, hip-hop, and African dance.
Discover HSA Dance
Media & Design
HSA Media & Design celebrates Harlem’s legendary artists through a powerful curriculum facilitated by a positive, supportive faculty who inspire participant creativity, confidence and communication.
Discover HSA Media & Design
Music
HSA Music stands on the shoulders of the Harlem Renaissance and some of the greatest musical artists the world has ever known.
Discover HSA Music
Musical Theatre
HSA Musical Theatre introduces the fundamentals of musical theater to young actors.
Discover HSA Musical Theatre
Theatre
HSA Theatre houses young performers from a long line of actors. From Paul Robeson to Ethel Waters, the Harlem Renaissance provided opportunities for artists to speak their truth and stand in their light.
Discover HSA TheatreFrequently asked questions
For students ages 8-17 who dream of pursuing art as a career, we offer specialized programs called HSA Prep and HSA Pre-Prep. These programs provide advanced artistic training in a supportive environment, helping young artists build the skills and confidence they need for future success in the arts.
Our experienced department directors work personally with each student to evaluate their current skills and interests. This helps us place your child in the perfect class where they’ll feel both challenged and confident as they grow their artistic abilities.
Yes. However, for those students who do not have access to an instrument, HSA can provide a list of stores that rent a variety of instruments.
Our program runs in two terms of 16 weeks each, for a total of 32 weeks of artistic exploration. Class lengths are designed with your child’s age and attention span in mind – toddler classes are a fun-filled hour, while older students enjoy immersive two-hour sessions. There is a calendar link on the contact page.
Yes! We’re excited to announce that our toddler programs are launching soon. These age-appropriate classes will introduce our youngest artists to the joy of creative expression. Stay tuned for more details!