We have always believed great musicians come from all backgrounds—it is the variety in our experiences that allows us to create powerful art. It is why Longy is committed to antiracism. We accept students based on their passion and potential, on their desire to use their music to change the world. But despite our open doors, structural problems run deep in the world of classical music: homogeny, pedigree, and exclusion. These tropes cause immeasurable harm to our field. We must do our part to dispel them.
We will remove the barriers that prevent a musician from accessing training and development. We will amplify the voices of those who have been suppressed, supporting them in their convictions and fostering greater understanding among us all. We will uproot the inequity that keeps us apart in ways both seen and unseen. We will lead by example, showing our students what the world of classical music can be, and giving them the tools to build it.
The goal for our Access to Equity Campaign is a total of $270,000. I am delighted to report that, with early leadership giving and support through the Gala Celebration, we have reached our goal. With these funds we will:
- Provide Equity Scholarships for students with the deepest financial need. Longy already provides 97% of its students with financial aid. Equity Scholarships will remove the barrier determining whether a deserving student attends Longy at all.
- Underwrite a School-wide Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion process to propel Longy forward in creating a sustainable, equitable conservatory.
- Launch a Fellowship program that offers generous scholarship support and professional experience with Longy’s Artistic and Social Change team.
- Continue building Longy’s signature social change programming such as Sistema Side-by-Side, providing school children with high quality music education, and the Music as a Healing Art Initiative, training students to serve the most vulnerable in our community.
Please consider making a gift to support the Access to Equity Campaign. You will give a new generation the opportunity to hone their talents and tell their stories. They will bring music to those in need, and, in doing so, truly make a difference in the world. The world needs music more than ever, and so we need you more than ever.