Navigating Culturally Responsive Repertoire in Music Classrooms Delve into the nuanced world of selecting and integrating culturally responsive repertoire into your El Sistema-inspired learning space. Understand the significance of celebrating different cultures through music and the transformative impact it has on creating an inclusive learning environment. Explore the importance of doing thorogh research to understand…
Navigating "Managing Up" In this final session for the Program Director Forum this season, we will delve into the nuanced skill of "managing up," an essential strategy for program directors who often find themselves navigating the complex dynamics between their frontline experiences and the perspectives of their supervisors and senior leadership. Discover how to effectively…
The newly formed Teaching Artist Forum aims to provide a space for Teaching Artists working with El Sistema-inspired programs to collaborate, network, and workshop teaching ideas and strategies.
Calling all administrators, teaching artists, and changemakers working in the field of equity-based youth music programs and creative youth development!
September 18 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pmStart the school year with renewed purpose and join us for an enriching discussion on the concept of success. Network with fellow directors, share insights, and gain fresh perspectives on defining success in your music programs. Discover why finding your own definition of success is crucial for career sustainability, while still respecting and aligning with your program's mission. This forum will equip you with the tools and inspiration needed to thrive both personally and professionally. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your leadership and drive your program to new heights!
September 25 @ 12:00 pmJoin us for a conversation as Jessica Zweig, Executive Director of Play On Philly shares insights from a nationwide conversation with fellow El Sistema organizations on the complexities of Teaching Artist compensation. This session will delve into the findings of their comprehensive survey, revealing how programs across the country are balancing organizational needs with the aspirations of their invaluable Teaching Artists. We'll explore job structures, compensation scales, and the critical factors that influence both organizational culture and financial sustainability. This discussion is essential for anyone seeking to understand the evolving landscape of Teaching Artist salaries within the El Sistema context in the US.
Join us for a dynamic virtual workshop, facilitated by TATI and featuring guest presenter Jasmine Fripp, a Grammy-nominated music educator and founder of The Passionate Black Educator. This session will offer participants practical strategies to create lesson plans that honor and integrate students' cultural backgrounds and experiences. Jasmine Fripp will guide attendees through the process of designing lesson plans that not only support diverse learning styles but also foster musical skill development in a way that is inclusive, intentional, and transformative. The workshop will emphasize the importance of setting specific learning goals, aligning assessments, and using scaffolding to ensure that all students can succeed. Whether you're aiming to build concert-ready ensembles or develop deeper musical understanding, this session will equip you with the tools to create a classroom environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
October 8 @ 6:30 pm - 9:00 pmConnect with a variety of colleges and conservatories across the country and learn how to find a music school that is the “best fit” for you. This session will help you determine what aspects to consider when applying to college and show you how to identify schools that meet your criteria.Who is this session for? This session is targeted towards prospective music students and families seeking to begin their college preparation process. This session will also be beneficial for private instructors and program managers who are supporting their students’ musical journey.This session is free to all attendees.
TA Forum Teacher Talks November 4 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Register Facilitated by Teaching Artists Training Institute The newly formed Teaching Artist Forum aims to provide a space for Teaching Artists working with El Sistema-inspired programs to collaborate, network, and workshop teaching ideas and strategies. Through six discussion-based forums facilitated in partnership with the Teaching…
The Equity Arc Wind Symphony brings together talented pre-college musicians from historically underrepresented cultural backgrounds for a tuition-free multi-day training residency with the United States Marine Band (USMB). Musicians selected through a competitive audition process will learn from professional military musicians, network with peers from similar backgrounds, and participate in cultural activities in Washington, DC.…
November 12 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pmThis session will help you refine the non-musical aspects of your college application and audition. Hear tips to optimize your pre-screening recording, college essay, interview, and audition skills.Who is this session for? This session is targeted towards prospective music students and families seeking to begin their college preparation process. This session will also be beneficial for private instructors and program managers who are supporting their students’ musical journey.Registration is free for Equity Arc and El Sistema USA members, and $35 for non-members.Learn more about Equity Arc membership | Learn more about El Sistema USA membership
Join us for a dynamic session led by Peter Compo, a DuPont veteran and strategic advisor to El Sistema USA and other Sistema-inspired programs across the U.S., as we delve into the 3Ws every board needs: wisdom, work, and wealth. We’ll explore key aspects of achieving these 3Ws, such as tracking commitments, ensuring balanced reporting, and fostering active participation in board meetings, whether in person or on Zoom. Peter will also address the critical role board members play in holding the executive director/CEO and staff accountable for meeting their commitments and maintaining proper operations.
In addition, we’ll examine the importance of developing a shared strategy between the board and executive director/CEO—one that’s not just a list of goals, nor a unilateral or "rubber stamp" approach. Finally, we’ll discuss how to tackle crises head-on, addressing difficult situations and organizational underperformance with the urgency they demand. Register now to gain invaluable insights on building a more effective, engaged board for your Sistema-inspired organization!
