Our Programs

Sexton Arts offers structured music education and performance programs for young people ages 10–18 in New York City. Our programs are led by experienced professional musicians and teaching artists, and are designed to be accessible to students regardless of their family's income.

We believe in building both access and excellence — and in creating the kind of musical community where students grow as artists, listeners, and people

Who it serves: Young people ages 10–18 who want to begin or continue learning an instrument.  What students receive: Instruction from experienced, professional teaching artists in a structured, supportive learning environment. Lessons focus on technique, musicianship, and musical vocabulary — the tools students need to grow as independent musicians and contributing ensemble members.   Why it matters: One-on-one and small-group instruction is the fastest, most effective way to build a musician. Sexton Arts makes this level of instruction accessible to students who might not otherwise have it.  Outcomes: Stronger technique, expanded musical vocabulary, increased confidence, and preparation for ensemble participation and performance.   How to get started: Complete our enrollment inquiry form and a Sexton Arts team member will follow up within two business days.

Youth Ensembles

Who it serves: Young musicians ages 10–18 with some prior instrument experience who are ready to play with others. What participants receive: Regular rehearsals in a structured ensemble setting led by professional musicians. Students learn repertoire, develop their ear, practice collective musicianship, and prepare for public performance. Jazz is a core focus, and the ensemble experience draws on jazz's tradition of listening, adapting, and leading. Why it matters: Playing in an ensemble is one of the most powerful educational experiences a young musician can have. It teaches things a lesson never can: how to listen across a group, how to hold your part, how to serve the music rather than just yourself. Outcomes: Developed listening skills, musical confidence, performance experience, mentorship relationships, and community with peers who take music seriously. How to get started: Inquire through our enrollment form. Students will be placed in an appropriate ensemble based on instrument, experience level, and availability.

Community Performances

Who it serves: The broader New York City community — and the students who perform for them. What this looks like: Sexton Arts organizes and presents concerts where youth ensembles and student musicians perform for real audiences. These events are free or low-cost to attend and are designed to celebrate student achievement, connect with the community, and make live music accessible to neighborhoods that don't always see it. Why it matters: Performance is the point. Students who have an audience work harder, grow faster, and carry their musical identity with them longer. Community concerts also demonstrate the value of music investment to parents, funders, and community partners. How to stay informed: Sign up for our mailing list to receive concert announcements. Presenters and venues interested in hosting a Sexton Arts performance should contact us at info@sextonarts.org

Intensives and Masterclasses

Sexton Arts will offer targeted workshops and masterclasses led by professional musicians and teaching artists — intensive skill-building opportunities focused on specific instruments, styles, improvisation, music theory, and performance practice. These programs will be available to both current Sexton Arts students and the broader community of young musicians in New York City. Stay informed: Join our mailing list to be notified when workshops are announced. Presenters and schools: If you're interested in bringing a workshop or masterclass to your organization or institution, please contact us at info@sextonarts.org.

Where We Are

Sexton Arts is a new organization, founded in January 2026. We are actively building our programs and raising the funds needed to launch them at the standard our students deserve.

Some programming — including community performances and workshops — is closer to launch. Our full lesson and ensemble programs will begin as funding allows. We are transparent about where we are because we believe trust is built through honesty, not overstatement.

If you'd like to support the launch of these programs, your contribution makes a direct difference.

Tuition Support

Sexton Arts is committed to ensuring that cost is not a barrier to participation. As funding allows, we will provide tuition support to students and families who need it — so that access to quality music education is not limited to those who can afford it.

Tuition support is funded by donations and grants. Every gift to Sexton Arts helps make programs more accessible

Have questions about our programs? Want to enroll a student, host a workshop, or support our work?

 We'd love to hear from you.