This list gives a special shout out to some of the initiatives, organizations and people making an impact in the classical music world this year. Creatively bringing the arts into the lives of others, these projects and people hit a high note on our meter of joy. We hope reading about their work will leave you feeling like 2018 wasn’t so bad, after all.
The Lullaby Project
As the dedicated educational arm of Carnegie Hall, Weill Music Institute offers free programs and grants, as well as innovative ways of engaging New Yorkers in music making. Of these, the Lullaby Project stands out as particularly unique and meaningful, pairing “pregnant women and new mothers and fathers with professional artists to write and sing personal lullabies for their babies, supporting maternal health, aiding child development and strengthening the bond between parent and child.” The Lullaby Project works in homeless shelters, high schools and on Rikers Island. Check out this video and prepare to feel all warm and fuzzy — and then follow through on that sudden urge to call your mother.
Composer Diversity Database
As a brand new resource, the Composer Diversity Database represents — pun intended — a progressive step towards a more inclusive canon. The search engine offers over three dozen filters to help users discover new music based on composers’ gender identity, ethnic or racial background, instrumentation, or all of the above. Search for people whose work you might have been missing, or contribute a new entry, here.
Chineke! Foundation
Just three years old, Chineke! Foundationhas taken the U.K. and Europe by storm as the first majority black and minority ethnic orchestra. This long-overdue organization is single-handedly tackling classical music’s diversity issues. By offering a flagship orchestra of seasoned professionals as well as a Junior Orchestra, Chineke! provides strong mentorship opportunities within its musician ranks. With supporters like Sir Simon Rattle, the Royal Philharmonic Society, and the BBC, the Chineke! Foundation is a testament to the experiences of its founder, the Nigerian-Irish double bassist Chi-chi Nwanoku.
Sphinx Organization
Based in Detroit, Sphinx is the leader in pipeline programs that actively diversify the field of classical music. Empowering black and Latinx performers in various stages of their careers, Sphinx offers education programs for young people, audition support, ensembles like the Sphinx Virtuosi and, most recently, a development program for arts administrators pursuing leadership roles. The dedication and impact of this organization cannot be underestimated. Bravo!
Public School Music Teachers Everywhere
Whether you’re an active or recovering musician, it likely takes just seconds to remember the music teacher that changed your life. They sparked your passion for music, encouraged your creative drive or simply showed by example that there was a viable career path doing what you love. In schools across the country, we salute teachers who do the hard work of leading young people in making music. Want to feel particularly inspired about the state of music education? Check out the story of Bronx teacher Melissa Salguero,who won the Music Educator Award at the 2018 Grammys.
