Since 1985, Arts & Design has managed the Music program presenting

quality music to the commuting public. At present, more than 350 soloists

and groups participate in Music Under New York providing over 7,500 annual

performances at 30 locations throughout the transit system.

Every year, the annual auditions are held in Grand Central Terminal to

review and add new performers to the MUSIC roster. In an effort to appeal

to all, MUSIC seeks musicians who reflect the culture and diversity of the

people of New York City. All performers are welcome to apply for the

audition. Audition application forms are available at the beginning of the

year. Eligible performers are contacted and invited to perform at the auditions, which are held live, one-day only, and open to public. A panel of professionals, consisting of representatives from the music industry, cultural institutions, MTA station operations, fellow musicians and others, judge each of the five minute performances based on the criteria of quality, variety, and appropriateness for the mass transit environment.

After the auditions, the selected performers attend an orientation meeting to receive information explaining the procedures of the program and the regulations of the transit system, especially relating to passenger safety and comfort. As a member of MUSIC, performers receive personalized MUSIC banners to display during scheduled MUSIC performance at the 30 designated MUSIC sites. MUSIC sites are busy, highly visible locations in the subway and commuter rail stations including Long Island Rail Road Penn Station and Metro-North Grand Central Terminal.

Throughout the year for the public, MUSIC presents special events in the transit system with such themes as Blues Festival, Divas Underground, Summer Solstice, Jazz Festival, etc.

SHESHE auditioned May 18 in the GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL at 11:20 am.  Arriving with amplifier, mic and tablet in hand, she signs in and is pointed behind the curtain.  There were gobs of people standing around listening to the auditions, at least 25 judges at the tables from various walks of life, and a bustle of acts behind the curtain waiting, preparing and warming up for their chance at an elite spot in the subway & recognition as the best of the best.  The contestant before SHESHE, had not prepared for her auditioned and asked to borrow SHESHE's amp to play music from her phone.  Generously, she agreed.  Knowing she is next,  she anxiously watched the contestant perform.  Then, it was her turn.  Again, SHESHE opened her mouth and growled/belted the beginnings of her signature song HOUND DOG by BIG MAMA THORTON and the judges are LOVING it!!  The echos of her voice ricocheted off the cathedral ceilings of Grand Central Terminal and that was it!  Afterwards, people flocked to her to get info and take pictures.  Another, success!!

Time went by with no word, then June 1, 2016, on the MUNY website, the announcement was made, with Azusa SHESHE Dance was on the list as an artist!  Excited, she waited for orientation, held August 1, 2016, received her MUNY sign Monday, August 29 and debuted at the 42nd St & 8th Av station with great anticipation.  Shedding some nerves and butterflies only took seconds, then SHESHE's voice was full blown echoing thru the corridors, capturing the attention of those far away and passing by.