Inclusive Excellence
The career of Kedrick Armstrong—graduate orchestral conducting student—is quickly gaining momentum, including conducting the CU Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Irene Britton Smith’s “Sinfonietta” next week.
Violist Avedis Escandon shares what diversity means to him and how he strives to encourage others to become DEI advocates as well. “Just like with music, major changes don’t happen overnight—change requires small bits of effort over time, so we cannot discount the impact of a meaningful dialogue.”
Among several Homecoming weekend events, we’re delighted that Willie Hill—College of Music alumnus, as well as former College of Music professor and director of the CU Jazz Summer Camp—will be honored at tonight's 93rd Annual Alumni Awards ceremony in the Glenn Miller Ballroom.
“We wanted the performance to encompass different forms of art, in addition to music. ‘Atlas’ will feature music, instrumentals and dancing, as well as food from an array of cultures.”
“We value a broad aesthetic range of sound-based art that is inclusive of all genres and manners of music making, ranging from concert music to songwriting, electroacoustic to jazz, experimental and beyond.” Learn more about our exciting Pendulum New Music concert series, soon to be redubbed 911 SoundWorks.
“The way I see it, developing universal musicians who demonstrate diversity in all forms is both a mission and a process that directly supports and sustains democracy. Our diversity of experiences and abilities, perspectives and opinions, races and ethnicities, and genders and sexual identities enhances our conversation, ignites and expands our awareness, and makes us better when we come together.”
A new member of the College of Music faculty shares his approach to preparing students to become universal musicians, and fostering an environment of diversity and inclusivity. “It's not about hyper-specialization, but about flexibility, creativity and keeping an open mind,” he says.
“Rather than mourn what we have lost, try to find new, different ways of music making. I tried to take this as an opportunity to create long-term curriculums with student-centered projects, and this was a great way for students and myself to interact with music in new, safe ways.”
Stephanie Bonjack, who heads up the Howard B. Waltz Music Library, describes the BIPOC Composers Project.
Olivia Huizar Conner shares how her background inspires her to promote Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in music.