The Manhattan School of Music, founded in 1917, is a private institution. Its students study with members of major orchestras and opera companies as well as with concert, chamber, jazz and recording artists. There are extensive performance opportunities on campus as well as the chance to freelance and begin to develop a network of professional contacts. Students undergo remarkable changes: They start to function as professional musicians while still in school, and they are given the chance to go as far as their talent, intelligence and courage can take them. Its facilities are located in the Morningside Heights section of Manhattan.