Harnessing the Power of Collective Action
About National Collective for Musical Pathways
The National Collective for Musical Pathways is an alliance of rigorous pre-college music training programs committed to removing barriers and accelerating the progress of BIPOC musicians. Pathways initiatives provide comprehensive, holistic support for young artists from underrepresented backgrounds in preparation for careers as professional musicians. In addition to intensive musical training, these programs also provide mentorship, family engagement, and individualized advisory curricula to prepare young musicians for the demands of the classical music field.
If you are interested in joining the Collective, complete this form.
Benefits
In addition to being a space for information sharing and support, members of the Collective:
- Are eligible for funding opportunities. In May 2023, 8 members of the Collective received over $1.8 million in multi-year program support. Learn more ﹥
- Participate in consulting and strategy sessions
- Students of color are eligible to apply for the Equity Arc Pathways Orchestra. Learn more ﹥
Members
- Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Talent Development Program (Atlanta, GA)
- Baltimore Musical Pathways Initiative (Baltimore, MD)
- Boston Symphony Youth Orchestras Intensive Community Program, (Boston, MA)
- Cali Pathways Project of Montclair State University (Montclair, NJ)
- Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative (Chicago, IL)
- Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra Nouveau Pre-Conservatory Track (Cincinnati, OH)
- Cleveland Institute of Music Musical Pathways Fellowship (Cleveland, OH)
- Colburn School Herbert Zipper Scholarship (Los Angeles, CA)
- Columbus Symphony Orchestra Academy (Columbus, OH)
- Detroit Symphony Orchestra Civic Youth Ensembles (Detroit, MI)
- Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies Pathway Musicians (St. Paul, MN)
- Nashville Symphony’s Accelerando (Nashville, TN)
- New World Symphony College Track Mentorship Program (Miami, FL)
- Philadelphia Music Alliance for Youth Artists’ Initiative (Philadelphia, PA)
- Play On Philly Marian Anderson Young Artist Program (Philadelphia, PA)
- Primavera Fund (Philadelphia, PA)
- Project STEP (Boston, MA)
- Washington Musical Pathways Initiative (Washington, DC)
- Youth Orchestras of San Antonio Rising Star Fellows (San Antonio, TX)
“I gained resources for teachers, instruments, mentorship (masterclasses) and travels for trial lessons and summer programs. Without these, I wouldn’t have made it here today.”
Patricia Harden, Primavera Fund ’23
Our Mission
The National Collective for Musical Pathways is an alliance of rigorous pre-college music training programs that provide opportunities to, remove barriers from, and accelerate progress of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) classical musicians.
Our Vision
We believe in a world where pathways graduates are irrefutably competitive and prepared to thrive in leading collegiate programs that prepare them for a sustainable performing career.
Values
Respect
We value the lived experiences of young BIPOC musicians and understand the inevitable challenges they will face along their musical journey.
Equity
We are driven to advance equitable systems and opportunities for young BIPOC musicians.
Collaboration
We partner with parental units and a diverse group of stakeholders to achieve our mission.
Solutions
We advocate for BIPOC musicians, promote practical policies, and model solutions for the field of classical music traditions.
Change
We seek to change mindsets, hearts, and practices to transform systems at every level along the pathway.
