Harlem Collective Opera our mission is to dispel fear around opera, classical, and choral music, making it tangible, accessible, and inspiring for the masses. We provide a sanctuary of creativity, culture, and spirit where audiences experience artistry that leaves a lasting impact — through opera, orchestral music, and choir performance, all deeply rooted in African-American culture and composers, because for us, it’s Black History Month all year long.
Through our Resident Artist Program, we mentor emerging professional artists in opera and orchestral performance, providing a 12-month intensive training experience with live performances, coaching, and real-world experience designed to launch a sustainable career in classical and contemporary music.
Our Apprentice Program offers emerging artists comprimario roles, coaching, and supplemental instruction, ensuring that all talented individuals have the opportunity to develop their skills, gain performance experience, and grow within our community.
The Harlem Boys Choir nurtures young vocalists through weekly rehearsals, performances, and mentoring, while the Harlem Chamber Orchestra provides essential orchestral experience, training, and mentorship, both for resident and apprentice musicians.
We celebrate the gifts God has given us and our community, sharing them through performance, global cuisine, lifestyle, and culture, and through the lens of African-American excellence. Each first Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of the month, starting in March, audiences are invited to The Apollo, Victoria to witness:
• Wednesday: Harlem Chamber Orchestra
• Thursday: Harlem Collective Opera
• Friday: Harlem Boys Choir
Every performance is more than a show — it is an encounter with artistry, culture, divine gifts, and community connection. Harlem Collective is committed to ownership, integrity, and empowerment, ensuring that every artist, from apprentice to resident, can thrive in a professional, supportive, and inspiring environment.
Harlem Collective: The Ecosystem of Excellence
Welcome to Harlem Collective, where artistry, culture, and community converge. Our ecosystem includes three core institutions — the Harlem Collective Opera, the Harlem Boys Choir, and the Harlem Chamber Orchestra — all working together under one mission: to dispel fear around opera and classical music, celebrate African-American composers, and create a sanctuary of creativity and spirit.
Harlem Collective Opera
Experience opera reimagined.
Our resident opera artists bring world-class performance to Harlem audiences, performing masterworks, contemporary compositions, and works by African-American composers. Through our Resident Artist Program, emerging singers receive:
• 12-month immersive training including coaching, diction, stagecraft, and performance techniques
• Apprentice roles in comprimario and supporting parts for real-world stage experience
• Three live performances per month at The Apollo, Victoria
• Mentorship and career guidance, preparing them for national and international opportunities
Audiences experience not just opera, but the lifestyle and artistry of the modern singer, integrated with global cuisine, fashion, and culture to make classical music tangible and relevant.
Harlem Boys Choir
Nurturing the next generation of voices.
Our choir trains young singers ages 6–18 in vocal performance, musical literacy, and ensemble skills, with emphasis on African-American choral traditions. Programs include:
• Weekly rehearsals with professional choir directors
• Performance opportunities in a cappella and percussion ensembles
• Participation in Harlem Collective productions, including our first-weekend-of-the-month performances at The Apollo, Victoria
• Community engagement through outreach, masterclasses, and seasonal events
Stipend: $150 per live performance for eligible performers. No audition pay.
Harlem Chamber Orchestra
Where orchestral mastery meets mentorship.
Our 22-piece orchestra provides full orchestral accompaniment to Harlem Collective Opera and Boys Choir performances, while also performing standalone orchestral concerts. Programs include:
• Resident and apprentice musician programs, offering coaching, rehearsals, and live performance experience
• Rehearsals and live concerts:
• Rehearsals: $50 per musician
• Live performances: $125 per musician
• Essential instrument sections: Strings (Violin I & II, Viola, Cello, Bass), Woodwinds (Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon), Brass (Trumpet, Trombone, Horn), Percussion (Timpani & Percussion ensemble)
Our orchestra develops professional-level skill while supporting the full Harlem Collective ecosystem, ensuring every artist learns collaboration, stagecraft, and musical excellence.
Visit Website: Phone: +1 646-901-4789
Address: 1952 First Avenue Suite 2H
