Celebrating New York City’s Music Legacy, Inspiring the Artists of Tomorrow
MOMENT is more than a museum — it’s a living, breathing celebration of music, culture, and creativity. From jazz to hip-hop, classical to experimental, we preserve the stories that shaped New York’s sound and empower future generations to find their own voice in the city that never stops playing.
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future of New York City’s Music Culture
The Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City, lovingly known as MOMENT, was founded to celebrate and preserve the remarkable musical journey that defines the city’s cultural identity. We believe that music is more than art — it is history, heritage, and humanity expressed through rhythm and sound. MOMENT brings together communities, artists, educators, and audiences to explore the transformative power of music and entertainment in shaping our shared story. From the birth of jazz in Harlem to the rise of punk in the East Village and the global influence of hip-hop, we capture the heartbeat of New York and keep it alive for future generations.
Our Story
From New York’s Soundtrack to a Living Legacy
The story of the Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City began with a simple yet powerful idea: that music is the pulse of human connection and the heartbeat of New York itself. Founded by a collective of educators, artists, historians, and community leaders, MOMENT was born out of a desire to preserve the city’s unparalleled musical heritage while creating a living, breathing space where new stories could take shape. Our founders were driven by the understanding that music is not only to be remembered but also to be experienced, celebrated, and continuously reinvented by every generation.
Our journey started as a small grassroots effort to document the stories of local musicians, street performers, and neighborhood venues that shaped the soundscape of New York. Over time, it grew into a comprehensive movement — one that brought together institutions, families, and artists under one roof. As the museum expanded, we established partnerships with schools, universities, and cultural organizations, allowing us to blend preservation with education. Today, MOMENT stands as both a historical archive and a vibrant community hub, bridging the gap between the city’s musical past and its bright, diverse future.
Preserving the Sound, Inspiring the Soul
At the Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City, we are dedicated to preserving the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future of music through education, engagement, and exploration. MOMENT is not simply a space for viewing — it’s a space for doing, learning, and feeling. Every corner of our museum is alive with sound, story, and creativity. From the legendary clubs of the Bronx and the soulful stages of Harlem to the symphonic halls of Manhattan, our work reflects the diverse, ever-evolving musical journey that defines New York City.
Our programs are designed to nurture curiosity and creativity in learners of all ages. Through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and live performances, visitors can experience the magic of music firsthand. Our daily activities include rhythm sessions for children, songwriting and storytelling workshops for students, and discussions that bring together scholars, artists, and families. We partner with educators and local schools to make music accessible to young learners, helping them understand not just the sounds but the social and cultural stories behind them. Every note played and every word sung becomes an opportunity to connect learning with emotion, turning education into a living art form.
Preserving New York’s Musical Heritage and Empowering Future Creators
Our mission at the Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City (MOMENT) is to celebrate, document, and advance the extraordinary musical legacy of New York while inspiring and supporting the next generation of artists and audiences. We exist to ensure that the city’s rich musical history remains alive, accessible, and relevant to everyone. Through exhibitions, performances, educational initiatives, and community outreach, we bring together people from all walks of life to experience the beauty and power of music in all its forms.
Our vision
Building a World Where Every Voice and Every Song Matters
Our vision is to create a world where music serves as a universal language for understanding, empathy, and empowerment. At MOMENT, we imagine a future in which every individual — regardless of age, background, or ability — can experience the joy of music and feel inspired to express themselves through it. We aim to be the world’s most dynamic and inclusive hub for music education, preservation, and innovation, rooted in the cultural heartbeat of New York City.
We envision a museum that is not confined by walls but connected by community — where schools, neighborhoods, and global audiences can engage with our collections, workshops, and virtual exhibits. Our vision extends beyond curation to collaboration. We strive to amplify underrepresented voices, celebrate cultural diversity, and create opportunities for dialogue between artists and audiences. As technology continues to evolve, we embrace new tools to expand access to music learning and performance. Through this commitment, MOMENT will continue to lead as a beacon of artistic freedom, community connection, and lifelong learning, ensuring that the music of today becomes the legacy of tomorrow.
Our Values
Rooted in Creativity, Guided by Integrity, United by Community
At the Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City, our values serve as the foundation for everything we do. We believe that music is a universal language that connects hearts, transcends boundaries, and strengthens communities. This belief drives our commitment to inclusivity, respect, and collaboration in every aspect of our work. We value creativity not only as an artistic expression but as a tool for understanding, healing, and transformation.
Integrity is at the core of our mission. We approach preservation with responsibility, ensuring that every story we tell honors the truth, history, and humanity behind the music. We believe in giving credit to the creators and communities that shaped New York’s sound and continue to shape its identity today. Collaboration fuels our growth — we work alongside educators, musicians, families, and community leaders to make music education and appreciation accessible to all. Through compassion and curiosity, we foster a culture where everyone feels valued, heard, and inspired.
Our impact
Inspiring Connection, Empowering Creativity, Strengthening Community
The impact of MOMENT extends far beyond our museum walls. Every visitor, student, and artist who engages with our programs becomes part of a larger movement — one that celebrates the transformative power of music in everyday life. Our educational initiatives have reached countless children and families across New York, providing opportunities for learning, self-expression, and cultural appreciation.
Our exhibits and performances tell stories that inspire empathy, creativity, and pride in New York’s musical heritage. Young learners discover how rhythm shapes communication, how melody can express emotion, and how history lives through sound. Artists find a platform to share their craft, families reconnect through shared experiences, and educators gain tools to bring music to life in their teaching. Beyond the city, MOMENT’s outreach programs have fostered international collaborations, bridging cultures through shared sounds and stories. Our goal is not only to preserve music but to keep it alive — vibrant, accessible, and evolving.
Passionate Minds, Creative Hearts, and a Shared Love for Music
At the Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City, our team is the heartbeat of everything we do. Each member brings a unique blend of experience, talent, and devotion to the mission of preserving and advancing New York’s vibrant musical legacy. Together, we bridge generations, genres, and communities to create a living museum that educates, inspires, and connects people through the universal language of music.
Dr. Alicia Moreno
Executive Director
Alicia Moreno has spent over two decades at the intersection of education, culture, and the arts. Holding a Ph.D. in Ethnomusicology from Columbia University, she has dedicated her career to exploring how music shapes identity and fosters community. Before joining MOMENT, she served as the Director of Cultural Partnerships for the New York Arts Council, where she led initiatives that expanded access to music education across public schools. At MOMENT, Alicia leads with empathy and vision, ensuring that every project reflects both the rich history and the living creativity of New York City’s soundscape. Her leadership philosophy centers on inclusion, collaboration, and lifelong learning — values that continue to inspire the entire MOMENT community.
Marcus Green
Director of Education and Learning Programs
Marcus Green is a lifelong educator, musician, and advocate for creative learning. A graduate of NYU’s Steinhardt School of Education, Marcus has spent the last 15 years designing music programs that empower children to explore their artistic voices. Before joining MOMENT, he worked with numerous youth centers and after-school programs, blending musical theory with experiential, hands-on learning. At MOMENT, Marcus develops curriculum and workshops that introduce students to everything from classical harmony to digital music production. His philosophy is rooted in accessibility and curiosity — he believes that every child has a rhythm waiting to be discovered. His passion for teaching, combined with his background as a jazz pianist, makes him a cornerstone of MOMENT’s educational impact.
Sophie Lin
Curator of Exhibits and Archives
Sophie Lin combines her deep knowledge of music history with a modern approach to storytelling. With a Master’s in Museum Studies and a lifelong love for performance, she brings both academic rigor and artistic flair to every exhibit. Before joining MOMENT, she worked at the Smithsonian’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, where she curated projects that explored the evolution of American music. At MOMENT, Sophie’s work ensures that each display not only informs but also inspires — blending artifacts, soundscapes, and digital media to immerse visitors in New York’s musical heritage. Her attention to detail and commitment to representation help bring untold stories to light, ensuring that every voice has a place in the city’s musical narrative.
The change we have brought
Inspiring Minds Through Music and Creativity
At MOMENT, education is at the core of our mission. We believe that learning through music develops critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and creativity in ways that traditional classrooms alone cannot achieve. Our programs are designed to immerse children and young adults in the history, theory, and practice of music, blending academic understanding with hands-on experiences. From workshops exploring jazz improvisation to digital music production labs, students engage with music as both an art and a discipline. By working with professional musicians and educators, participants gain mentorship and real-world insight into the creative process, fostering skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Our educational approach emphasizes exploration, curiosity, and self-expression, giving each learner the confidence to discover and refine their unique musical voice while connecting deeply with New York City’s rich cultural heritage.
Learning Through Rhythm, Movement, and Discovery
Play is an essential part of how children engage with the world, and at MOMENT, we embrace it fully. Our interactive exhibits, music-making stations, and creative workshops encourage children to experiment with sound, rhythm, and storytelling in a safe and nurturing environment. Through play, children develop coordination, social skills, and imaginative thinking while exploring musical concepts in a hands-on way. We integrate opportunities for improvisation, collaboration, and performance into daily activities, allowing learners to experiment freely and gain confidence in expressing themselves. Play at MOMENT is not just fun — it is an essential component of learning, inspiring curiosity and fostering a lifelong love of music. Every note explored, instrument touched, and rhythm discovered builds a foundation for creativity, problem-solving, and emotional growth.
Growing Together Through Music and Connection
Music is a powerful tool for fostering social and emotional development, and at MOMENT, we intentionally integrate these opportunities into every program. Children learn to listen deeply, communicate through sound, and collaborate with peers in ensemble activities, workshops, and group performances. By engaging in shared musical experiences, learners develop empathy, self-awareness, and resilience. Our staff is trained to guide children in navigating emotions through music, helping them express feelings safely and constructively. Through mentorship, teamwork, and creative exploration, participants gain confidence, strengthen interpersonal skills, and learn the value of community. MOMENT provides a space where children can explore their individuality while connecting meaningfully with others, ensuring that music not only educates the mind but also nurtures the heart.
Voices of Families, Stories of Impact
Anna Rodriguez, Parent of a 4-Year-Old
“MOMENT has completely transformed our daughter’s love for music. From the first visit, she was captivated by the interactive exhibits and hands-on workshops. The educators are incredibly patient and attentive, making sure every child feels included and inspired. My daughter now sings, dances, and even experiments with rhythm at home, and I can see her confidence growing every day. The way MOMENT integrates learning with play is unmatched.”
James Lee, Parent of a 6-Year-Old
“As a working parent, finding an enriching program that also keeps my child safe and engaged is challenging. MOMENT exceeded every expectation. The staff are professional, warm, and truly knowledgeable. My son looks forward to every session, whether it’s exploring instruments, attending live performances, or participating in group activities. The team’s dedication to fostering creativity while teaching respect, collaboration, and musical history is inspiring.”
Maya Patel, Parent of a 3-Year-Old
“Our family feels so welcomed at MOMENT. The programs are thoughtfully designed for young children, and the staff go above and beyond to create a nurturing environment. My daughter has learned to appreciate rhythm, melody, and storytelling through music in ways that are fun, engaging, and meaningful. It’s clear that the educators genuinely care about each child’s development and growth.”
Carlos Hernandez, Parent of a 5-Year-Old
“The team at MOMENT has been incredible in helping our child discover a love for music while also developing social skills and emotional awareness. The workshops encourage collaboration and confidence, and the staff always take the time to celebrate each child’s achievements. The museum’s combination of education, creativity, and community is truly remarkable.”
Leah Thompson, Parent of a 7-Year-Old
“MOMENT offers a rare experience where children can engage with music history, performance, and creativity all in one place. My daughter has gained so much confidence, learned about different genres, and even started experimenting with her own compositions. The staff are exceptional — knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely passionate about music and child development. It’s a wonderful environment for children and families alike.”
Join Us in Shaping New York’s Musical Future
Volunteering at the Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the preservation and celebration of the city’s vibrant music culture. We believe that volunteers are essential partners in our mission, helping us create meaningful experiences for children, families, and communities. By offering your time, skills, and passion, you become part of a team dedicated to education, creativity, and cultural enrichment. Whether assisting in workshops, guiding visitors, or supporting events, your involvement directly enhances the lives of those we serve and ensures that MOMENT remains a welcoming, inspiring space for all.
Why Volunteer
Volunteering at the Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City allows you to be an active part of preserving and celebrating the city’s vibrant musical heritage. Our volunteers help bridge the gap between education, creativity, and community, making every visitor experience meaningful and enriching. By offering your time, energy, and skills, you contribute directly to inspiring young learners, supporting artists, and strengthening the bonds within our local neighborhoods. Volunteering at MOMENT is not just about giving back — it’s about joining a passionate team dedicated to shaping a living, breathing cultural institution where music comes alive for everyone. Every hour you spend with us has a lasting impact, helping to foster creativity, curiosity, and community engagement.
Why Volunteer
Inspiring Connection, Empowering Creativity, Strengthening CommunityThe impact of MOMENT extends far beyond our museum walls. Every visitor, student, and artist who engages with our programs becomes part of a larger movement — one that celebrates the transformative power of music in everyday life. Our educational initiatives have reached countless children and families across New York, providing opportunities for learning, self-expression, and cultural appreciation.
Our exhibits and performances tell stories that inspire empathy, creativity, and pride in New York’s musical heritage. Young learners discover how rhythm shapes communication, how melody can express emotion, and how history lives through sound. Artists find a platform to share their craft, families reconnect through shared experiences, and educators gain tools to bring music to life in their teaching.
There are numerous ways to contribute your talents as a volunteer at MOMENT. You can assist with educational programs by supporting teachers during music workshops, guiding children through interactive exhibits, or helping to organize performances and special events. Volunteers may also participate in community outreach, helping to connect the museum’s programs with schools, cultural organizations, and local artists. Those with administrative, research, or technical skills can contribute to archival projects, marketing initiatives, or digital content creation. We offer flexible schedules and tailored opportunities to ensure that each volunteer’s time and skills are matched with meaningful tasks, creating an experience that is rewarding for both the individual and the community.
Ways to Help
Impact of Volunteering
The contributions of our volunteers ripple across the museum and into the wider community. By supporting educational programs, volunteers help children develop confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love for music. Their involvement allows MOMENT to reach more families, expand programs, and enhance the quality of our exhibits and events. Volunteers also serve as ambassadors of our mission, helping to foster connections between the museum, the community, and local artists. The shared enthusiasm and dedication of our volunteers amplify our ability to preserve New York City’s musical legacy while creating enriching experiences that inspire and uplift everyone who visits. Through volunteering at MOMENT, individuals not only make a difference in the lives of children and families but also become part of a collaborative effort to keep the city’s music alive for generations to come.
Nurturing Creativity, Inspiring Lifelong Learning
At the Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City, our programs are designed to meet the needs of children at every stage of development. We serve infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and early school-age children, tailoring each program to the abilities, interests, and learning styles of the age group. From gentle musical exploration for our youngest learners to more structured lessons in rhythm, melody, and composition for older children, MOMENT provides a continuum of learning that nurtures curiosity and creativity. Our goal is to inspire a lifelong relationship with music while supporting social, emotional, and cognitive growth at every level.
In addition to regular programming, we offer special activities and events that further enrich the learning experience. Seasonal music camps, family workshops, artist residencies, and public performances create opportunities for children and families to engage directly with professional musicians and educators. These immersive experiences encourage creativity, provide inspiration, and strengthen the connection between the museum, the community, and the wider world of music. At MOMENT, every program is an invitation to explore, create, and grow together.
Answers to Your Questions About MOMENT
At MOMENT, we strive to make enrollment simple and accessible for every family. Parents can register online through our secure portal or visit the museum in person to complete enrollment forms. We provide clear guidance on age-appropriate programs and available schedules, ensuring that families select the best fit for their child’s developmental stage. Our team is always available to answer questions, offer guidance, and assist with any special requirements. Early registration is recommended for popular programs and seasonal workshops, and we maintain a transparent communication system to keep families informed about openings, waitlists, and program updates.
Health and Safety Protocols
The safety and well-being of every child is our highest priority. MOMENT follows strict health and safety guidelines across all programs, including regular sanitization of instruments and equipment, monitored activity spaces, and trained staff who are certified in first aid and emergency procedures. We maintain appropriate adult-to-child ratios and provide secure check-in and check-out processes to ensure that children are supervised at all times. Our policies also include protocols for illness, allergy management, and emergency communication, giving parents peace of mind while their children explore, play, and learn in a safe environment.
Curriculum and Learning Approach
Our curriculum integrates music history, hands-on practice, and creative exploration to foster both intellectual and emotional development. Children engage with rhythm, melody, and storytelling through interactive exhibits, workshops, and guided lessons. The learning approach emphasizes active participation, collaboration, and self-expression, encouraging each child to explore their unique creative potential. Programs are tailored by age group to provide developmentally appropriate instruction while promoting curiosity, critical thinking, and social interaction. Every activity is designed to connect music to broader cultural and historical contexts, helping children understand its significance while enjoying a joyful, immersive learning experience.
Meals and Nutrition
MOMENT provides nutritious snacks and meal options during longer programs and workshops. We prioritize balanced meals that meet diverse dietary needs and accommodate allergies or restrictions. Families are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary concerns at the time of enrollment, and our staff ensures that every child receives appropriate meals in a safe and supervised environment. Mealtimes are integrated into the day as a part of learning and social development, offering opportunities for children to practice independence, table manners, and positive social interactions.
Daily Schedule and Activities
A typical day at MOMENT is designed to balance structured learning, creative exploration, and play. Children participate in music workshops, instrument exploration, movement activities, storytelling, and collaborative projects. Each day includes dedicated times for individual and group activities, snack breaks, and reflective sessions that allow children to express their experiences through performance or discussion. Special themed days, guest performances, and workshops with local artists supplement the daily schedule, ensuring that each visit is dynamic, engaging, and memorable.
Join Us / Work With Us
Be Part of a Team That Inspires Through Music
At the Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City, we are always looking for passionate individuals who share our commitment to music, education, and community. Joining our team means becoming part of a dynamic, collaborative, and creative environment where your contributions directly impact children, families, and the wider music community. We value innovation, curiosity, and dedication, and we strive to create a workplace where every team member can grow professionally while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Team Culture
Our team culture is built on collaboration, respect, and a shared passion for music. We encourage continuous learning, mentorship, and professional development while maintaining a supportive and inclusive environment. Team members are empowered to bring their unique ideas, perspectives, and talents to the table, contributing to innovative programs and exhibits that engage and inspire. At MOMENT, we celebrate creativity, embrace diversity, and foster a culture where curiosity and enthusiasm are not only encouraged but essential.
Career Opportunities
MOMENT offers a wide range of career opportunities across education, curation, community engagement, administration, and digital programming. From teaching and program coordination to exhibit design and archival research, every role plays a vital part in achieving our mission. We seek individuals with expertise in music, education, arts administration, technology, and community outreach. Regardless of your background, if you are committed to fostering creativity, supporting learners, and preserving New York’s musical heritage, there is a place for you at MOMENT.
Connect, Visit, and Explore the World of Music
At the Museum of Music & Entertainment in New York City, we welcome families, educators, artists, and community members to connect with us in multiple ways. Our doors are open to those who want to explore our exhibits, participate in educational programs, or engage with our vibrant community of musicians and learners. We are committed to providing clear communication, prompt responses, and a warm, informative experience for every visitor. Whether you have questions about enrollment, programs, volunteering, or events, our team is ready to assist you with professionalism and care.
Our museum is conveniently located at 550 Grand St Apt H3a, New York, NY 10002, USA. Visitors are encouraged to schedule a tour or a visit to ensure the best possible experience.For inquiries, families can reach us via email at info@momein.site or through our online contact form on the website. We also maintain active social media channels where visitors can stay informed about upcoming events, special programs, and news related to the museum and the music community in New York.