Discover the Best Performing Arts Classes in NYC
The performing arts includes a wide array of creative disciplines, all of which involve live performance before an audience. It’s a collective term for various art forms, including but not limited to theater, dance, music, spoken word, comedy, and others. Artists in the performing arts use their bodies, voices, props, and musical instruments to communicate powerful ideas and narratives. Whether through captivating stage plays, mesmerizing dance movements, or entrancing musical compositions, the performing arts connect artist and audience in limitless ways.
Why You Should Learn Performing Arts in NYC
Learning a performance art can provide students with unique tools to express themselves. The performing arts provide a structured and creative outlet for individuals to explore and communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Potential students also have a wide range of performing arts to choose from, including acting, dancing, music, and even rarer art forms like opera and puppetry. Through the process of learning and honing their craft, individuals can develop the skills and techniques necessary to translate their own thoughts and feelings to a wider audience. Over time, they can build self-confidence and connect with themselves and others on a profound emotional level.
New York City, a widely recognized global hub for arts and culture, is an incredible place in which to pursue the performing arts. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage and is home to renowned theaters, dance companies, music venues, and performing arts institutions. These include the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Madison Square Garden, and Carnegie Hall. There are plenty of places to both learn a performing art and become inspired. Individuals will never run out of plays to go to, concerts to attend, or stand-up comedy sessions to laugh along with. If students are interested in pursuing a career in performing arts, they’ll also find plenty of networking opportunities in the city.
In-Person Performing Arts Classes & Schools in NYC
There are many in-person performing arts classes in NYC for aspiring actors, comedians, musicians, and more. For example, the Brooklyn Comedy Collective offers a class called Improv Level 1. In this class, students will learn how to improvise comedically through a series of exercises and games. They’ll learn how to connect with themselves and others emotionally, comedically, and boldly, to become the best possible performers. This class is appropriate for those looking to become future performers, as well as those looking to learn more casually.
The Brooklyn Comedy Collective is located in the Williamsburg district of Brooklyn, NY. It focuses on teaching comedy through three distinct pillars. Firstly, to empower each student to find their unique voice in comedy and performance. Secondly, to pair individual feedback with ensemble-minded focus, and finally, to give each student the tools they need to succeed on stage.
Also in New York is the Musical Theater Audition Master Class with Scott Wojcik hosted by Actors Connection New York. The session will commence with a Q&A, followed by each actor performing their prepared material in a group setting for Scott. He will provide coaching, give direction, and offer potential recommendations for additional material to explore if your current selections are not yielding the desired results.
Actors Connection New York focuses on connecting budding actors to industry professionals such as talent scouts, agents, casting directors, and more. They create opportunities for those looking to refine their skills, as well as those completely new to the industry who want some initial experience.
The 92nd Street Y offers a course called Jazz Keyboard (Beginner) for those looking to learn how to grow and refine their jazz keyboard skills. This beginners class covers basics such as melody, rhythm, harmony, and repertoire. Students will use the Great American Songbook and music from musicians like Duke Ellington and Sonny Rollins as inspiration. Students will get both individualized and group attention in a class limited to seven people.
Also offered by the 92nd Street Y is a class called Sing the Authentic You! A Cabaret Performance Workshop. In this class, students will learn from award-winning cabaret artists Faith Prince, Michael Kirk Lane, and Alex Rybeck. Over the course of this two day intensive, participants will learn how to connect to their material and deliver their most authentic self on stage.
The 92nd Street Y is a cultural and community center focused on connecting people through the arts. Located in the heart of Manhattan in the Upper East Side, it is easily accessible to anyone in New York City. This prominent cultural center has over 4,000 classes taught by experts in their field.
Finally, the New York Jazz Workshop offers a course called Jazz Singing with Michelle Walker. In this course, students will learn from expert musicians and teacher Michelle Walker. This two hour long weekly workshop is for intermediate and advanced students who are looking to hone their skills. Students will have the opportunity to be accompanied by musicians, and in some cases, a full band.
The New York Jazz Workshop is located in midtown, Manhattan. It was created to provide opportunities for students of all backgrounds interested in jazz. The New York Jazz Workshop has several offerings for those interested in jazz music, including private lessons, master classes, concerts, teen workshops, and more.
Virtual Performing Arts Classes & Schools
Learning performing arts virtually has its pros and cons. On the positive side, virtual learning provides convenience and flexibility, allowing students to participate in classes from anywhere without the need for commuting. It also offers access to a wider range of instructors and programs from different locations, offering diverse perspectives and expertise.
However, there are challenges as well. The absence of physical presence and live interactions can make it harder to establish connections and engage fully in the learning process. The lack of immediate feedback and correction may hinder the development of certain performance skills that require direct observation and guidance.
There are many online performing arts classes for interested students. For example, the L.A. On-Camera Training Center aims to provide actors in Los Angeles with authentic and proven on-camera techniques. Led by experienced comedy actress Jacqueline Geary, the 12-week introductory course titled How to be Funny on Camera explores the four fundamental elements of a comedy scene. In this course, students will learn the eighteen tools needed to make any read complete. It is ideal for those looking to book comedic roles, improve their acting in comedic scenes, or extract comedy from dramatic scenes. Experience the genuine L.A. On-Camera Training Center and elevate your on-camera skills.
In addition, Dance of Venus offers learning opportunities for individuals interested in belly dancing, yoga, and ballroom dance. Online performing arts learners may be interested in the Beginner Belly Dance class taught by Dance of Venus. This course focuses on unleashing the "goddess Venus" inside each participant, teaching them to take control of their bodies and movements. Through the art of belly dancing, students will learn how to improve their musicality, posture, grace, and flexibility.
Private Group Performing Arts Classes in NYC
Learning performing arts in a group setting offers benefits such as fostering a sense of community, collaboration, and shared experiences. It provides opportunities for peer feedback, learning from others' performances, and developing interpersonal skills. Group classes also allow for ensemble work, creating cohesive and impactful performances while inspiring and motivating students through a sense of belonging.
If you’re interested in performing arts classes for private groups in NYC, contact CourseHorse through the form on the website. With CourseHorse, group size can be changed after booking if needed, so you don’t have to worry about that last minute cancellation. With multiple supported platforms, you can also book from anywhere. Finally, confirmation is sent within 24 hours, so you can be sure that you’ll be ready to go on the day of the booking.
