May 28, 2003

REP. DILLON PUSHES FOR MUSIC SCHOOL FUNDING
State Bond Commission set to approve $1-million for New Haven institution

State Representative Patricia Dillon (D-New Haven) announced the State Bond Commission is set to approve $1 million for the expansion of the Neighborhood Music School (NMS) in New Haven during its Friday meeting. The grant would fund much needed capital improvements, code compliance and the expansion of the school’s studio space.

"This is a victory for children in New Haven and beyond," Rep. Dillon said. "This is vital funding for an important community program."

Rep. Dillon said NMS is dedicated to providing the highest quality instruction in music and dance and to make it accessible to people of all ethnic backgrounds and economic circumstances. It was established in 1911 in the Wooster Square neighborhood. In 1968 the school moved to Audubon Street in the heart of New Haven’s thriving arts community.

The Neighborhood Music School is the ninth largest community arts school in the nation with a student body of 2,800 and a budget of $2.5 million. The school features programs in voice and dance as well as instruction for more than 30 instruments.