Judith G Wharton Music Center

Wharton Arts is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing award-winning performing arts education for students of all ages and backgrounds. We believe in the transformative power of music and its ability to positively impact individuals and their communities. Our commitment to ensemble excellence, self-expression, and social change has made us one of the largest independent community performing arts education centers in New Jersey.

Our Core Programs

Wharton Arts is comprised of four core programs that offer students a wide range of classes and ensembles. These programs include the New Jersey Youth Symphony, Paterson Music Project, Performing Arts School, and New Jersey Youth Chorus. Each program is designed to cater to students of different ages and experience levels, providing them with opportunities to learn from highly qualified faculty and engage in various aspects of the performing arts.

New Jersey Youth Symphony

The New Jersey Youth Symphony (NJYS) is an auditioned orchestral and jazz education program for students in grades 3-12. The NJYS has a strong reputation for excellence, with its ensembles regularly performing at prestigious venues such as the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Carnegie Hall, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. NJYS has also been a First Prize Winner in the Summa Cum Laude International Youth Festival and Competition in Vienna in 2014 and 2017.

Paterson Music Project

The Paterson Music Project (PMP) provides private music lessons, sectional classes, and ensemble education for students in grades 1-12 in Paterson schools. Since its inception in January 2013, the PMP has grown tenfold and now partners with 17 schools in the area. Research has shown that students who participate in the PMP for every year more receive higher standardized test scores.

Performing Arts School

The Performing Arts School (PAS) offers instrumental and vocal instruction, musical theater, drama, and other courses for students aged four and up. With nearly 50 faculty members, PAS provides students with opportunities for one-on-one instruction and group classes. PAS students regularly win top prizes in local and national competitions, including MTNA, MEA-NJ, NAfME, Russian Music Festival, and Crescendo International Festival. Over 300 students attend PAS summer camps annually.

New Jersey Youth Chorus

The New Jersey Youth Chorus (NJYC) is an auditioned choral ensemble program for students in grades 3-12. Now celebrating more than 30 years of musical excellence and exceptional performance experiences, NJYC is home to choristers from throughout northern and central New Jersey.

Our Impact

Wharton Arts has made a significant impact on the lives of our students and the communities we serve. Through our commitment to providing high-quality performing arts education, we empower students to express themselves, develop their talents, and contribute positively to society. Our programs foster a sense of community and social responsibility among our students, encouraging them to use their gifts to make a difference in the world.

Join Us

If you're interested in learning more about Wharton Arts or would like to get involved, we invite you to explore our website or contact us directly. We look forward to sharing the joy of music and the performing arts with you!