KAUFMAN MUSIC CENTER

Music is essential to the human experience and a vital component of education for everyone. That belief has guided Kaufman Music Center since its founding and continues to shape everything we do.

Kaufman Music Center is one of New York City’s leading institutions for music education and performance. Our schools offer outstanding education in music, dance and theater to people of all ages and experience levels, and our intimate Merkin Hall presents today’s most compelling artists.

At the heart of Kaufman Music Center are Special Music School, the nation's only K-12 public school that prioritizes an immersive music education, and Lucy Moses School, one of NYC's finest community performing arts schools for all ages. Our students develop not only as musicians, but as curious, disciplined, creative and compassionate people. Through rigorous artistic training and a vibrant learning community, we prepare young people to thrive in music and in life — whether they pursue careers on the concert stage or in any other field.

Performances at Merkin Hall provide unparalleled access to extraordinary artists, bold ideas, world premieres and unforgettable moments where every performance becomes more than a concert — it becomes a singular experience filled with discovery, conversation and powerful acts of creation.

Experience the future of music with us on stage, in our classrooms, and throughout our community.

ANTHONY MAZZOCCHI, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND CEO

Anthony Mazzocchi is a GRAMMY®-nominated music educator and visionary leader who has dedicated his career to shaping the future of music education and performance. Mazzocchi has served since 2020 as Director of the John J. Cali School of Music at Montclair State University and Executive Director of the Kinhaven Music School in Vermont since 2010. An accomplished trombonist, Mazzocchi has performed with leading ensembles including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, New Jersey Symphony and San Diego Symphony, and in numerous Broadway productions.

At the John J. Cali School of Music, Mazzocchi spearheaded initiatives such as the Cali Immersive Residency Program, the pioneering Cali Pathways Project to advance diversity in the field, and international artist partnerships. Under his guidance, the School developed innovative programs like a BA in Recording and Production Arts and forged collaborations with premier venues such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, National Sawdust and Kaufman Music Center.

A passionate advocate for music education, Mazzocchi significantly expanded the Kinhaven Music School’s programs and financial foundation, leading efforts to establish the nation’s first semester boarding school for music and developing tuition-free programs for young musicians.

Mazzocchi’s influence extends to publishing, with his books being widely adopted by educational organizations — including the NYC Department of Education — and institutions globally. His TEDx talk, “What Can a Trombone Choir Teach the World About Collaboration and Leadership?” encapsulates his commitment to music as a means of fostering teamwork and innovation.