Longy’s Side-by-Side Program was inspired by the Venezuelan social movement, El Sistema, which addresses issues of social justice through accessible musical training. This year-long initiative pairs children ages 6-17 from community music education sites across Massachusetts with Longy conservatory students for rehearsals and extraordinary performances. Through this innovative program, Longy is enriching the lives of children, preparing conservatory students to build meaningful lives in music, and addressing a pressing need for high-quality music education for young musicians who may not otherwise have access.

Longy’s Summer Academy is designed for students from El Sistema-inspired and community-based programs across the Greater Boston area and beyond. This program will foster friendships, enhance musical artistry, develop creative music-making skills, and promote leadership. We look forward to hosting Boston’s finest young musicians for two weeks of music immersion and inspiration.