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 on either Saturday, February 2, or Sunday, February 3, 2019.

Applications now open! Click here to apply.

Learn more about the program here.

Following an application and audition process, 20 students are selected to participate in:

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

Julianne loved being in your program! She really enjoyed the practice sessions. It was such a thrill for her to perform with The New York Pops and see everything involved in a performance. Our whole family had a great time at the concert! It was so nice to hear how her part fit so beautifully with the rest of the orchestra. Thank you so much for giving her such a rich experience!  - Lan, Kids on Stage Parent

During my time with The New York Pops Kids on Stage program I learned so much and cannot describe how thankful I am for being chosen. While I worked with this program I learned how to not just make the music my own but how to play it beautifully. I feel that anyone who has come through this program can see how they have matured. Playing with professional musicians also shows you how far you have to grow and that experience overall is something truly indescribable and beyond words. – Eve, 2016 participant