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Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Optimizing Your College Application & Audition

November 12 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
This 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

CEO Forum

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!

Program Director & Manager Forum: Best Practices for Supporting Beginning Students and their Families

Join us for a dynamic session focused on supporting new students and fostering their success. Connect with fellow administrators, exchange ideas, and explore innovative strategies to help students define and achieve their own paths to success. Learn why it's crucial to support students in finding their own definitions of success while aligning with your institution's values. This session will equip you with the insights and tools needed to enhance your leadership and provide exceptional support to students, setting the stage for their future achievements. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your impact and drive student success to new heights!

POSTPONED: Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Navigating the College & Audition Process with Undocumented Parents

December 3 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
This session addresses the unique challenges faced by students with undocumented parents as they navigate the college admissions and audition process. Hear practical advice on how to handle specific situations, seek support, and utilize available resources specifically for students with undocumented parents.

Who is this session for? This session is targeted towards prospective music students and families with undocumented parents. This session will also be beneficial for private instructors and program managers who seek guidance in this area. Spanish translation will be provided.

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

ESUSA Youth Ambassador Program Application Deadline

The 2025 ESUSA Youth Ambassador Program is for high school students (grades 9-12) who have been active in an El Sistema USA program for at least 2 years. Students must be available for the in-person event in Baltimore, MD from June 15-21, 2025

CEO Forum

CEO Forum January 8 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm Register Facilitated by Gabrielle Molina Executive Director, Project Music Gabrielle Molina (she, ella, siya) is currently the Executive Director of Project Music, a youth development and El Sistema-inspired music nonprofit located in Stamford, CT. In addition to her work at Project Music, Gabrielle is on the coaching…

Program Director & Manager Forum: Supporting Teaching Artists

Join us for an insightful session on effectively supporting teaching artists. Despite our best efforts, teaching artists often don't receive the recognition they deserve. Many experience burnout and leave their positions in search of better benefits and support systems. While comprehensive healthcare may not be feasible for many programs, there are other ways to create a fulfilling and sustainable environment for teaching artists.

Engage with fellow administrators, share ideas, and explore innovative solutions to empower teaching artists. Learn how focusing on the teaching artist experience can lead to lasting benefits for your students and community. Understand the importance of robust support systems for teaching artists' growth and sustainability, ensuring they thrive both personally and professionally. This session will provide you with the insights and strategies needed to create a supportive and enriching workplace for teaching artists. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a significant impact and elevate the success of your teaching artists!

Fortissima 2025 at the Colburn School Application Deadline

Fortissima is an artistic and leadership development program at the Colburn School, specifically designed for high school-age young women from underrepresented minorities in classical music. This program offers a combination of online leadership training and mentorship, paired with an intensive weeklong residency at the Colburn School. Participants will have access to individualized artistic and career development support, including trial lessons, performance opportunities, and workshops. The program aims to inspire and empower young women to pursue professional careers in classical music.

J.W. Pepper 150th Anniversary Scholarship Program Application Deadline

The J.W. Pepper 150th Anniversary Scholarship Program supports students passionate about music education as they transition to college. Administered by Scholarship America®, the program evaluates eligible applicants to award scholarships to students meeting the outlined criteria.

Teaching Artist Forum: Scaffolding for Success: Strategies for Support for Students with Special Abilities

Scaffolding for Success: Strategies for Support for Students with Special Abilities February 3 @ 7:00 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…

Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Higher-Education Financial Planning for Low-Income Families

February 11 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Do you want to minimize debt and increase scholarship and financial aid resources? This webinar offers strategies to help music students from low-income backgrounds manage higher education expenses effectively. Learn how to create realistic budgets, explore cost-saving opportunities, and compare commuting versus off-campus housing options. The session will also help you understand student loans, loan forgiveness programs, and alternatives such as part-time work and co-op programs. Participants will be prepared to navigate financial aid, manage budgets effectively, and minimize student debt.

Who is this session for? This session is targeted towards prospective music students and families from low-income backgrounds. This session will also be beneficial for private instructors and program managers who seek guidance in this area.

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

YOLA National Festival Application Deadline

The YOLA National Festival offers young musicians the opportunity to participate in a high-level orchestral training program, featuring guest artists, performances, and learning with world-renowned conductors. The festival is free for participants, covering travel, lodging, meals, and programming. Musicians will have the chance to be part of either a Symphony Orchestra or an Overture Orchestra and a corresponding Chamber Music Program, depending on their age and level.

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