Innovation in the Workplace

An experiential workshop with business leaders focusing on the creative process of orchestral musicians. Participants will investigate several techniques that professional musicians use to cultivate a sense of innovation in their artistic work. I will help participants train their brains to actively notice and listen for the “core needs” of those around them, from colleagues to community members, ultimately expanding each participant’s capacity to learn, listen, and effectively lead their teams during difficult moments. Through observing and dissecting live performance with this newfound lens, as well as through hands-on activities, participants will begin to understand all of the necessary components that, when put together, make an orchestra -- and any team -- sound and act as a cohesive unit.

Art's Untapped Impact on Vulnerable Youth

For the millions of young people living in poverty throughout the United States, the barriers to getting an education and avoiding high-risk behaviors are almost insurmountable. Exposure to toxic stress and lack of access to both quality early childhood education and out-of-school-time programs, leaves low-income children developmentally behind throughout their childhood. These risk factors perpetuate a number of destructive cycles, including school failure, youth violence, and poverty. I believe that artists are best positioned to solve the most compelling problems facing young people, communities, and our education system. By sharing my own musical experiences, and providing clear, step-by-step accounts of how I developed his current non-profit, Play On, Philly!, I'll leave audiences inspired to reimagine the impact they are capable of creating in their own communities and beyond.

Diversity and Inclusion in America's Orchestras

Little has changed in classical music despite the best intentions of diversity and inclusion initiatives. With respect to diversity, the proportion of Black and Hispanic musicians in professional orchestras moved from just 1.7% and 1.8% to 1.8% and 2.5% over a 12-year period of intentional diversity-related work within the field. The scope of the problem is vast: systemic racism, unconscious bias, and white supremacy generate countless imbalances of equity, equality, and access. These challenges are broad and extend outside, over, and around any single institution or field. Additionally, the current paradigm is ineffective: the funding, crafting, and execution of initiatives takes place without alignment between institutions. I address these issues in a keynote that explains the opportunities and challenges we face to ensure talent of color is prominently included in the future of classical music in America.

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