Photo Credit: © United Childrens Music Project
Upcoming Student Opportunities
El Sistema USA has compiled a list of student opportunities that are relevant to current El Sistema USA students from the field. These include summer music festivals, youth leadership opportunities, scholarships, and webinars.
Do you have a student opportunity that you would like us to add to this page? We invite our network to submit student opportunities for ESUSA to share.
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
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.
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Higher-Education Financial Planning for Low-Income Families
February 11 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pmDo 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.
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Navigating the Financial Aid & Appeals Process
March 4 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pmGet the inside scoop from renowned faculty member Peter Slowik and accomplished admissions professional Fred Peterbark on the financial aid process. Learn how to identify scholarships, negotiate your financial aid package, navigate student loans to access the school of your choice.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
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Empowering Your Voice & Developing Self-Advocacy in Higher Education Spaces
May 6 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pmThis session aims to empower young musicians to find and use their voice effectively in collegiate and conservatory environments. Attendees will learn tools for success, including how to assess their landscape, identify their assets and evaluate their needs, and advocate for themselves in academic and pre-professional settings.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, program managers, and collegiate administrators 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
