The JSO’s leadership team worked with NAACP President Alan Cashaw to determine what needs exist for students of color in Johnstown that could be met by the symphony.
Three needs emerged: (1) access/exposure to classical art forms such as symphonic music; (2) positive adult mentoring; and (3) unifying the region through music across racial and economic barriers.
Offering a light-hearted, yet information-rich, experience led by a black community leader not just to students from underserved populations but to the broader public has the potential to be truly impactful. Jeffrey L. Webb, Associate Professor of Music at UPJ and Director of the Johnstown Symphony Chorus, has extensive experience and training in classical music. Click here for bio.
The plan is to present four events, geared to students in grades 9 and above, led by Jeff Webb and supplemented by performances by guest artists including pianist, vocalist, and conductor Michael Warren (click here for bio) and JSO Concertmaster Maureen Conlon-Gutierrez (click here for bio), and Artistic Director of the Bach Choir of Pittsburgh and Music Director of the Newton Symphony Orchestra, Thomas W. Douglas (click here for bio). Under the current global health crisis, JSO is still working to find the best way to move forward, likely in a virtual sphere, which may allow for them to reach even more students than originally planned. They’re also working with local school districts and teachers to reach students who could most benefit from the program (and may not have access to this kind of experience otherwise).
