Our Programs

From First Notes to Full Ensemble

UpBeat NYC is an open-door community music center in the South Bronx, offering free, comprehensive music education for students of all backgrounds.

Our teaching artists – accomplished working musicians from across New York City – provide instruction and mentorship from students’ first encounters with music through to advanced ensemble performance and paid internships.

Working in a community that has experienced decades of marginalization and exclusion from New York’s vast cultural resources, we are proud to celebrate the South Bronx’s rich musical heritage while helping shape its future. From classical repertoire to Afro-Latin jazz, our students explore diverse musical traditions within a supportive environment.

Through the joy of making music together, our students build confidence and collaboration skills, accessing opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable to them. At UpBeat, playing music becomes an act of both personal empowerment and community building – because when everyone has a part to play, we all move forward together.

We Got That Swing event, photo by Tanya Kulesh

Programs & Classes

At UpBeat, all of our student musicians participate across our entire spectrum of programming, joining for weekly private lessons, small group classes by instrument, and ensemble rehearsals. UpBeat’s door is open to participants who wish to drop by to use our space to rehearse, 7 days a week.

Paper Orchestra

Ages 5-6

Introduction to music for our youngest students, building foundational skills with handmade paper instruments.

Beginning Instrumental & Vocal Instruction

Ages 6+

First steps with real instruments, developing technical skills and musical literacy through group classes and weekly private lessons.

Ensemble Progression

Ages 8-21

Students advance through group lessons and performance, from beginner ensembles to youth orchestra and Afro-Latin jazz band.

Weekly Private Lessons

Ages 8-21

As an integral part of our program, private lessons ensure that each student is given the opportunity to work one-on-one with an instructor who can offer personalized support appropriate for each student’s skill level and learning style.

Community Performances

All Ages

Regular concerts and performances in the South Bronx and throughout NYC, celebrating our community’s achievements and connecting to broader audiences.

More Than Music

All UpBeat participants are invited to join for special programs, masterclasses with visiting professional musicians, and other special community events. Students 14+ have the opportunity to become paid assistant instructors and participate in our luthier apprenticeship program (in generous partnership with David Gage String Instruments).

Pathways & Opportunities

Ages 14+

Connecting students with specialized arts high schools, college admissions support, scholarships, summer music programs, and other opportunities that advance their education and artistic development.