The Performing Arts School (PAS) (formerly Wharton Music Center), founded in 1985 at the Madison YMCA, provides instrumental and vocal instruction through private and group classes to students of all ages and abilities. In 2008, coinciding with a move to its current location in Berkeley Heights, PAS added summer camps and a musical theater, drama, and dance department.
PAS became a founding member of The Royal Conservatory of Music’s Development Program in 2012.
PAS provides over 500 lessons and classes each week, ensuring that there is something for everyone. This premier educational institution prepares youth for advanced ensembles such as the NJYS Youth Symphony. In addition to instruction in all instruments and voice, PAS offers group classes in music theory, Pathways to Piano, musical theater, and drama.
Offerings include a range of musical genres, including classical, rock, jazz, and blues. As New Jersey’s largest nonprofit community performing arts education provider, PAS serves students in Union, Morris, Essex, Somerset, and other surrounding counties.
The Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts’ mission is to offer accessible, high quality performing arts education that sparks personal growth and builds inclusive communities.