Kids on Stage

Kids on Stage

Kids on Stage is a comprehensive program that provides middle school students access to the professional performance process from the first audition to the final note. The experience culminates onstage at Carnegie Hall alongside The New York Pops musicians at the annual Birthday Gala.

Kids on Stage is open to all New York City students currently enrolled in middle school (grades 6, 7, or 8). There is no fee to apply. If selected, students will be invited to audition in February 2020.

Learn more about the program here.

Following an application and audition process, 22 students are selected to participate in:

  • Four sectional/large group rehearsals with PopsEd Teaching Artists, including one with Music Director Steven Reineke.
  • Dress rehearsal and Gala performance alongside The New York Pops at Carnegie Hall.
  • Opportunity to be awarded one of eight scholarships to French Woods Festival for the Performing Arts summer camp.

“Kids on Stage was a truly amazing experience for Leo and us. He was very fortunate to be able to attend the program. He says everybody was so kind and nice to the students. I heard many amazing stories from him...before the concert, Cyndi came to them and encouraged them to have fun, Mr. Reineke was able to read all the student names fluently and correctly, the lady who sat next to him on the stage plays a Stradivarius and he saw Boy George without makeup...It was one of the best days of his life!” - Yuko Oiwa, parent of violin student, Leo Oiwa 

“I can't express my gratitude enough to you for allowing me to perform and work alongside this prestigious orchestra for a second time. I have learned and grown so much from this opportunity which has become a wonderful experience and a lifelong memory…thank you very much for your help, guidance, dedication and support.” - Christopher Ledoux, Trumpet student
 
Kids on Stage is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.
 
Thank you also to The Leir Foundation and East Hill Foundation for their generous support of this program.