The Bronx, NY (population 1.41 million) has a rich musical history, but has lost venues and seats for live performances at a steady rate since the 1970s. The Women's Housing and Economic Development Corporation has proposed developing the Bronx Music Heritage Center (BMHC), a cultural education and performance center to showcase and amplify the South Bronx's rich musical legacy in the borough itself. The Center will provide studio, rehearsal, and performance space for local musicians, students, and community members; produce new musical performances and other events celebrating diverse musical forms and Bronx-based artists; host a physical and digital archive of Bronx musical and cultural artifacts; and engage local artists as leaders in planning and implementation.

This project supports programming to activate the BMHC site and immediate area during pre-construction, changing the way people perceive and interact in the neighborhood. Programming will include installation of a Boogie Down Booth featuring Bronx music; public performances in the area; and community-engaged design of cultural murals/signage for the surrounding area and construction site, drawing attention to the musical heritage of the Bronx, creating “buzz” about the upcoming BMHC, and beautifying the neighborhood.