Greenwich House Music School: A New Chapter

Looking Ahead: Building the Future of Greenwich House Music School

For more than a century, Greenwich House Music School has been a vibrant center of artistic discovery and community in downtown New York. As we celebrate over 120 years of music education, we are embracing a new and exciting chapter: the search for a new home that expands access, enhances our programs, and strengthens our legacy for the next generation of artists.

Why Now?

While 46 Barrow Street has been our cherished home since 1913, the building’s aging infrastructure and lack of accessibility have made it increasingly difficult to meet the evolving needs of our students and faculty. Our vision is to build a purpose-driven, inclusive, and fully accessible space that honors our history while embracing the future of music education in New York City.

What’s Changing (and What’s Not)

We’re not going anywhere just yet — the Music School will continue to operate at 46 Barrow Street through at least the next academic year. We are working closely with our broker to ensure a thoughtful, community-minded transition while we search for a new home in the Greenwich Village area or nearby.
Our mission, faculty, and commitment to arts education remain unchanged. This transition is an opportunity to dream big, expand possibilities, and serve our community in bold new ways.

A Vision for the Future

Proceeds from the eventual sale of 46 Barrow Street will be fully reinvested in the Music School’s future — including:
  • A fully accessible, custom-built home with modern classrooms, practice rooms, and a concert space
  • Expanded programming and community partnerships
  • New scholarship and tuition assistance funds for underserved students
  • More rehearsal and performance opportunities for emerging artists
We’re engaging faculty, students, families, and community members throughout this journey to ensure the new space reflects the creativity and connection that define our Music School.
Join the Conversation
This is more than a move — it’s a moment to reimagine what Greenwich House Music School can be. We invite you to be a part of the journey:
  • Share your GHMS story
  • Sign up for relocation updates
  • Attend a community info session (dates coming soon)
  • Support our future by donating to the Music School

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is Greenwich House Music School exploring a move?

While 46 Barrow Street has been a beloved home for over a century, it now presents serious challenges. The building lacks ADA accessibility, modern heating and cooling, and would require millions in upgrades, which we cannot afford as a small non-profit. We believe our students, families, and faculty deserve a space that is safe, inclusive, and welcoming to all.

Is the building being sold?

Greenwich House has begun the process of exploring a sale of 44–46 Barrow Street with a trusted broker. This is part of a broader plan to reinvest in a new, future-ready home for the Music School.

Is the Music School closing?

No. Greenwich House Music School is not closing. We will continue offering lessons, classes, and programming without interruption. While there may be a brief pause for one summer during the move, our commitment to students and families is unwavering.

Will teachers and staff be affected?

There are no planned layoffs. Our faculty and staff remain at the heart of our community, and we are committed to supporting them throughout this transition.

Where will the school go next?

We are prioritizing buyers who will allow us to remain in the current building for at least the coming year. When it’s time to move, we’re committed to finding a new home in or near Greenwich Village that reflects our mission and meets our needs.

What can I tell others who ask?

You can share that GHMS is planning a move to a new, more accessible and modern space in the neighborhood. The spirit of our school—our mission, people, and programs—will move with us.

What if I’m worried about the change?

It’s natural to have questions. But rest assured: our faculty, leadership, and entire community are working to ensure a smooth transition. The heart of GHMS is not the building—it’s the people who bring it to life.

How can I stay informed or help?

We’ll be sharing regular updates on our website and through email. You can help by sharing accurate information and encouraging others to follow our official channels. If you have questions, reach out to us at music@greenwichhouse.org.