[2] ProArts, a group of six arts colleges and universities in the Boston area, pushed the city to open the school, which was founded in 1998.

The Consortium continues to support the school with performance space, music lessons and free college-level classes to BAA students.

[7][8][9][10] Although admission is academic-blind, eighth graders must audition to be accepted to the performing arts program.

[5] BAA offers an education to urban youth who come from less-than ideal backgrounds.

[11] The students had very poor attendance records and social problems, such as direct experience with violence.