The New Sewell Music Conservatory at 712 Kennedy Street before it was torn down (Google Maps Street View).

by Cesse Ip

Demolition of the New Sewell Music Conservatory at 712 Kennedy Street began in early July to make way for 30 new condos and a new home for the school. While the school has to go on hiatus during the construction phase, owner Harlan Jones says he plans to reopen stronger with new offerings for the community.

The Sewell Music Conservatory has been operating on Kennedy Street since 1952, and was founded by Mrs. Gladys S. Sewell, a Howard University graduate and a piano and music educator. In 1990, Harlan Jones, another Howard alumnus, took over. Harlan graduated with a concentration in Jazz and introduced that style into the school’s curriculum.

The empty lot where the New Sewell will go…

Today, New Sewell Music Conservatory, along with traditional and contemporary curriculum, includes computer-aided musical learning systems, audio recording, record production, jazz theory and choral arrangement. Vocal training is also available at the school with concentrations in gospel, jazz, new world, and rock.

The new building at 712 Kennedy Street will be 30 condominiums, with 1,000 square feet for the music school. Additionally, according to the developer Yared Tesfaye from United Investment, the mural that was previously on the west side of the building was saved. It will be restored and displayed at the new building.

Rendering of the new building coming to 712 Kennedy Street. The New Sewell Music Conservatory will return inside the new building (courtesy United Investment)

When the Sewell Music Conservatory reopens, they plan on operating as a community arts institution and a cornerstone of the neighborhood.

Jones plans on offering group lessons for all ages, starting with toddlers and infants, providing a learning space for older children and teens, and still also continue to offer classes for adults. In addition to music classes, they will be offering cooking classes, educational opportunities, and graphic and literary arts.

The best way to keep in touch with the school during its hiatus is its Facebook page, or to go see Jones perform every Sunday at Brightwood United Methodist Church.