ABOUT US
Who Are We?
Long Island School of the Arts is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing high quality instruction in the performing arts at affordable rates. We offer private voice and instrument lessons, an arts-based Universal Prek program, an affiliated arts-based aftercare program called APAL, group performing arts classes, music and dance therapy for special needs children, summer arts programs and workshops throughout the year.
Marching in the Holiday Parade
Where Did We Come From?
Long Island School of the Arts was founded in 2000 by Sandra Cardella Pagano, a William Floyd Alumni. Sandra earned her Masters Degree in Music from Brooklyn Conservatory in 1998. She is also a Music Therapist and accomplished teacher and performer.
Once she began her family, Sandra chose to put down roots in her hometown. Sandra gives much of the credit for her success in the performing arts to the amazing teachers she had at William Floyd, and wanted to bring something back to the community.
Sandra's vision was to create a Performing Arts Center in the William Floyd Community that would serve to enhance and complement the work being done by the school district and community library. She began with a handful of private lessons, music and movement classes for toddlers, and some dance classes.
Over the years, Long Island School of the Arts has grown and changed in many different ways. L.I.S.A. has collaborated with the Community Library on a variety of projects, presented full-scale musical productions, created a performing arts-based aftercare program, added a Universal PreK Program, secured grants for summer theater and offered workshops throughout the year.
Our Private Instruction Staff at our Annual Recital
Where Are We Going?
In 2010, LISA has reached a new high. Private lessons and group classes are flourishing, Our Universal PreK program has garnered much respect and has become a model for other preschools. In the summer of 2009, L.I.S.A and the Community Library presented a Musical Theater program which was very well-received. Plans are underway for more theater workshops, a private lesson scholarship program, collaborations with the school district and other organizations.
L.I.S.A. goes forward into the next decade with a renewed commitment to the William Floyd Community, and with great hope and excitement for the future.
Grants Awarded to
Long Island School of the Arts
2007-Suffolk County--Discretionary funds from Legislator Kate Browning used for equipment purchases for APAL and UPK, as well as a no-cost Musical Theater Summer Program.
2007-Town of Brookhaven--Community Enhancement Grant awarded by Councilwoman Carol Bissonette.
2007-HSBC-Community Involvement Grant on behalf of Board of Directors Member Marc San Giovanni.
2006-HSBC-Community Involvement Grant on behalf of Board of Directors Member Marc San Giovanni.
2003-MMSC Library Friends of the Arts--Grant to create and present an original historical musical; A Man of Consequence, written by a Wm. Floyd teacher. Choreographed and staged with local talent. Cast ages 7-17.
Fair Practice Statement
Long Island School of the Arts appreciates the help and support of all of our elected officials. As a 501C3 non-profit organization, Long Island School of the Arts will not endorse or oppose either directly or indirectly any candidate for public office. Long Island School of the Arts does not contribute or donate to any candidates campaign, as prohibited in section 4955 of the IRS code.
Founder/Director
Sandra Pagano
Ms. Pagano holds a Master's degree in Music Education from Brooklyn Conservatory, a Bachelor's degree from Molloy College and an Associates degree from Suffolk Community College. She is also a Certified Music Therapist accredited by the American Association for Music Therapy. Pagano formerly served on the faculty of Five Towns College as a Piano and Voice Professor. In addition, she acted as a private piano and voice instructor for over 13 years before founding Long Island School of the Arts in 2000. Pagano is very active in community activities such as serving as a member of the Cultural Arts Committee for the William Floyd Community Summit. She is also active in the William Floyd Alumni Association and the Save the Forge River Foundation.
