For many musicians in New York City, finding affordable rehearsal space can be one of the biggest challenges to pursue in their craft. This month, the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music is helping ease that burden by offering free studio time through a citywide initiative celebrating New York Music Month.

Pianist Sabrina Duan says having access to rehearsal space at the conservatory allows her to focus on creating without worrying about the cost.

"When you do have rehearsal spaces, they get very expensive. Here, they offered so many rooms. It's just a wonderful space to play and to be creative and to meet other people who are creative," she said.

The program is part of New York Music Month and is supported by the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment. Through the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music's Studio Collective program, musicians can receive three free hours of rehearsal space during June, providing artists with a place to practice, collaborate and connect.

Rafael Espinal, commissioner of the New York City Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment, says affordable rehearsal space is essential for working musicians.

"Rehearsing from home can get tough, especially if you're playing an instrument loud enough to disturb your neighbors. So, we, the mayor's office, believe that we ought to continue supporting programs like this so that folks have an affordable place to be able to hone in on their craft and create more opportunities for themselves," Espinal said.

Inside the conservatory, music fills the hallways as pianists, opera singers, saxophonists and other performers make use of the facility's rehearsal rooms.

The year-round Studio Collective program offers access to the conservatory's studios for $10 to $15 per hour, with each room equipped with a Steinway piano.

Pianist Adar Tulooch says the combination of quality instruments and affordable pricing makes a significant difference for musicians.

"The quality of the pianos here are, like, stellar for every single room that I've had so far. And the price is just, like, so accessible. That really bolsters and accelerates a lot of the work that I've been doing for myself," Tulooch said.

According to BKCM, more than 4,000 musicians use its 17 rehearsal studios each year. In addition to practice space, the program provides opportunities for performances and collaboration among artists from different musical backgrounds.

"These musicians are meeting other musicians, they're collaborating, they're forming ensembles. We hope that we'll make it more enjoyable for them, less costly for them to create in New York City," said Chad Cooper, executive director of the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music.

Program leaders say one of the goals is to make music accessible to everyone, regardless of experience level.

"I just recommend any other residents to come through and play even if you're a beginner. Just come and enjoy the music," Tulooch said.

The Brooklyn Conservatory of Music will also host its free Jazz Midsummer Nights Festival on July 23, continuing its efforts to connect local musicians and audiences through live performance.