Summer Arts Institute is a free, four-week arts program for New York City Department of Education public school students entering grades 8 through 12 in Fall 2025. This intensive program, to be held at Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in Astoria, Queens, will begin on July 7, 2025. Summer Arts Institute is administered by the New York City Department of Education’s Arts Office. We are proud that this summer will mark our 23rd year serving the talented students of New York City.

Students can major in dance, theater, instrumental music (band), string orchestra, vocal music, film, or visual arts. The program is designed for students at an intermediate or advanced level of study in their chosen discipline. Summer Arts Institute offers a unique opportunity for students to work with Department of Education arts specialists, partnering cultural organizations, and guest artists. This experienced team of arts professionals guides students in building a portfolio or audition skills for their next level of study: an arts-focused high school, college, university or conservatory. Summer Arts Institute focuses on three areas: 1) developing students’ arts skills and creativity; 2) broadening students’ awareness of the arts; 3) helping students recognize and explore career options in the arts and arts-related industries. This intensive summer arts experience connects students to community and cultural resources and promotes lifelong learning in the arts.

The Summer Arts Institute staff works diligently with students to move them to their next level of expertise and personal growth as young artists. The daily schedule includes studio work and experiences with professional artists, both on and off-site. In the studios, students develop and improve their technical skills and creative expression in their selected art form. Time is dedicated to rehearsals, attending professional performances, visiting professional arts venues and exploring potential careers. Students are given opportunities to perform in selected venues around New York City, and to show their original work in an informal, cabaret-like setting called the SAI Café. The Institute culminates with an exhibition and live performance for families and the local community showcasing the students’ work from all studios.

Our lead cultural partners in the 2025 Summer Arts Institute are American Ballet Theatre (Dance), Carnegie Hall (Vocal Music), Ghetto Film School (Film), Magic Box Productions (Film), New York Philharmonic (Concert Band and Strings), Opening Act (Theater), and Studio in a School (Visual Arts). 

Admission to the Summer Arts Institute is by application and audition. Students may apply and audition for only ONE studio.  Prior attendance in the Summer Arts Institute is not a guarantee of acceptance in the upcoming SAI.  All students are accepted on their current application and audition.