Greenwich House Music School to Begin Search for New Home
Exploring Sale of 46 Barrow Street to Expand Accessibility and Secure Ongoing Legacy
Greenwich House has officially launched a search for a new home for its Music School, and a sale of its building at 46 Barrow Street in Greenwich Village. The school’s education and community programming is expected to remain in the building uninterrupted through June 2026 as the Greenwich House Board and GHMS leadership team, work to identify a temporary swing space, and begin to engage community members around the program’s next chapter.
“This is a once-in-a-century opportunity for all of us involved with Greenwich House Music School to dream big about what comes next as we think about providing these opportunities for the next 100 years,” said Darren Bloch, CEO and Executive Director of Greenwich House.
“The profound emotional connection to Barrow Street doesn’t go away, but the commitment to that legacy and vision of what we can create in its place is what’s driving us now. We’re reimagining a space that meets the needs of today’s families, artists, and audiences. One that reflects our values of inclusion, creativity, and community – and sets the stage for generations to come.”
Founded in 1905, Greenwich House Music School (GHMS) has been located at 46 Barrow Street since 1913 and prior to that was located at 26 Jones Street. Generations of students and artists have been welcomed into its practice studios, recital hall, and classrooms over the years. But the building’s limitations – including a lack of ADA accessibility, outdated infrastructure, and rising maintenance costs have hindered the school’s programmatic flexibility as well as who can access its offerings. The decision to explore a sale is a proactive step to ensure the school’s varied programming remains affordable, accessible, and continues to be at the forefront of music and performing arts education and creation.
“For many, 46 Barrow has been more than a building; it has been the place where they first made music and found a community,” said Rachel Black, Director of the Music School. “As we look ahead, we remind ourselves that our heart and legacy lie with our outstanding faculty, vibrant students, brilliant artists, and shared love of music. We are excited to envision a new, custom-built, and accessible home that will allow our best-in-class programs to grow and serve even more artists and neighbors.”
While the process has only just begun, the Greenwich House Board is carefully considering how to reinvest the proceeds in ways that align with our mission. Early conversations have centered on securing a new home in or near the school’s original host neighborhood, and expanding access programs, rehearsal space, and artist support. The aim is to ensure the next chapter of the Music School continues to serve – and grow with – the community.
“While this building holds so many cherished memories, the true magic of the Music School is created by the people within its walls. I am hopeful about the future and excited to see how we engage the next generation of artists,” said Danyal Lawson, a long-time piano faculty member at the Music School. This decision coincides with the school’s 120th anniversary of offering music lessons – a timely moment to launch a bold, community-driven effort to create a 21st century music education program for all.
Greenwich House will continue to engage its community with opportunities for students, families, artists, and faculty to help inform the future of the new space. This collaborative approach ensures the spirit and legacy of Greenwich House Music School, its people and its programs, will remain Intact during this moment of transition.
For more information about GHMS’ pending building sale and search for a new home, contact music@greenwichhouse.org or visit greenwichhouse.org/new-chapter.
About Greenwich House
Founded in 1902, Greenwich House is dedicated to responding to the urgent, ongoing and diverse community needs of more than 20,000 children, families, and individuals through arts and education programs, older adult services, and health services that foster wellness, creativity, and connection. Learn more at www.greenwichhouse.org.
About Greenwich House Music School
Founded in 1905, Greenwich House Music School provides high-quality, accessible music and performing arts education to New Yorkers of all ages and skill levels. Its mission is to be a vital community resource for artistic exploration, creativity, and performance. Learn more at https://greenwichhouse.org/music-school/.
Media Contact:
Tearanny Street
Vice President of Communications and Marketing, Greenwich House
Email: tstreet@greenwichhouse.org
Phone: 646-941-3303