Groton Community  Band

CSMA Receives NYSCA Grant to Offer Low-Cost Rehearsal Space to Performing Artists

 

February 10, 2023 (Ithaca, NY) - The Community School of Music and Arts (CSMA) announces that it has received a $25,450 grant from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) to offer affordable rehearsal spaces supporting the performing arts in 2023. An initiative of NYSCA’s Support for Special Opportunities program, the award enables CSMA to provide subsidized rehearsal spaces to non-profit performing arts groups and artists at zero to low cost.

“We are thrilled to offer a variety of rehearsal spaces in our facility – from small music practice rooms to our spectacular 2,700 square-foot Martha Hamblin Hall – at very low cost, filling a great need,” said Robin Tropper-Herbel, Executive Director of CSMA. “The program will help resuscitate performing arts in Tompkins County, help artists get back to work, and bolster the creative work of individuals and organizations during this crucial time in the performing arts field.”

 

Rehearsal spaces at CSMA are made available through an open rental process. Subsidized rates range from $0 cost for CSMA members practicing individually to a maximum of $10 per hour for larger spaces. Spaces available include:

9 music practice rooms (1-3 persons)
Ensemble room (1-20 persons)
Dance studio (1-20 persons)
Martha Hamblin Hall performance venue (1-200 persons)

 

The spaces are available for one-time use or on an ongoing basis, with advance reservation required for Martha Hamblin Hall. All other spaces may be utilized on a first-come, first-served basis when not in use for instruction programs during CSMA’s open hours. 

 

The subsidy program is intended to support creative rehearsal time and excludes other activities such as auditions, classes, workshops, performances, and events. For these and other uses, regular room rental rates apply and attractive rehearsal/performance packages are available with partial subsidies.

 

To reserve Martha Hamblin Hall, complete the inquiry form on CSMA’s website or email productionmanager@csma-ithaca.org. For other spaces, drop in or call CSMA’s office at (607) 272-1474 during open hours.

“On behalf of the entire Council, I congratulate the Community School of Music and Arts on this grant award. Their creative work provides the benefits of the arts to both their community and all of New York. Arts organizations are essential, leading our tourism economy and fueling sectors such as hospitality, transit, and Main Streets across our state, “ said NYSCA Chair Katherine Nicholls. 

 

Support for Special Opportunities is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.  For more information about the New York State Council on the Arts, please visit https://arts.ny.gov/.

 

The Community School of Music and Arts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high-quality music and arts education to the Ithaca and Central New York community. Established in 1960, CSMA offers a wide range of programs for all ages, including private lessons, arts classes, exhibitions, and events. The organization is committed to making the arts accessible to everyone, providing a supportive environment where artists from diverse communities grow, collaborate, and thrive.

 

For more information about the Community School of Music and Arts, please visit https://csma-ithaca.org/.