As anyone will attest, classical music can be a challenging run-time. It’s not often that songs and pieces are up-tempo and lively. But as listeners get exposed more to classical music, they’re most likely going to want more than the old standard classics. Muses is a project that’s tackling this “problem” by showcasing emerging talent in order to provide an alternative to the current repertoire of ‘classical’ covers on typical radio stations.”
The New Muses Project is a new initiative from the Music Industry Association of Canada (MIAC) that aims to showcase diversity and up-and-coming talent in the Canadian music scene. The project will feature a series of live showcases and panels at various venues across the country, culminating in a finale event in Toronto.
The goal of the New Muses Project is to create opportunities for underrepresented groups within the Canadian music industry, and to help foster a more inclusive and diverse music scene. The project will focus on featuring artists who identify as women, LGBTQ+, Indigenous, or persons of colour.
The project is open to all genres of music, and will provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents to industry professionals and music fans alike. If you are an artist or band interested in taking part in the New Muses Project, please visit our website for more information.
The Muses Project Music Foundation
The Muses Project Music Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that believes in the power of music to unite and inspire us. We provide opportunities for young musicians from underserved communities to shine on stage and in the studio, and nurture their talent through mentorship and education.
Our core programs are our annual showcase concert series, which highlights the diversity and talent of up-and-coming musicians from across the country, and our Muses Project Academy, which offers free music education and performance opportunities to young people in New York City.
Since our founding in 2013, we have served over 1,000 young musicians and reached tens of thousands of audience members through our programs. We are committed to building a more inclusive music industry that celebrates the voices of all young people.
Why Diversity is Important
There are countless reasons why diversity is important. For one, it allows for a more accurate representation of the world we live in. It also gives people of all backgrounds an opportunity to see themselves reflected in the arts and to have their voices heard.
Diversity also opens up new opportunities for creativity and collaboration. When people from different backgrounds come together, they bring with them a wealth of unique perspectives and experiences. This can lead to fresh ideas and new ways of looking at things.
Lastly, diversity helps to create a more accepting and inclusive society. When we see people who are different from us represented in the arts, it can help break down barriers and stereotypes. It can also inspire us to be more open-minded and understanding of others.
How NMP Fosters Cultural Expression, Faith and Identity at All Levels of Classical Music
The New Muses Project (NMP) seeks to create a more inclusive and representative classical music field by promoting the work of diverse composers and performers. NMP does this by providing opportunities for underrepresented groups to showcase their talent and share their cultural expression, faith, and identity through music.
NMP recognizes that classical music is often seen as elitist and inaccessible, which can dissuade people from different backgrounds from participating. To counter this, NMP works to make classical music more approachable and welcoming to all. One way they do this is by featuring short concerts in nontraditional venues such as coffee shops, bookstores, and museums. These concerts are designed to be informal and relaxed, making them more inviting to newcomers.
In addition to fostering a love of classical music in the general public, NMP also works to support the careers of underrepresented composers and performers. They offer financial assistance for those pursuing musical study, provide professional development opportunities, and give exposure to up-and-coming talent through their performance showcases. By investing in the future of diverse musicians, NMP is helpings ensure that the field of classical music reflects the rich tapestry of our society.
Muse Connections Conclusion
I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to be a part of the New Muses Project. Not only was it an amazing experience to get to work with so many talented and unique individuals, but it was also a great learning experience. I feel that I have grown as an artist and as a person from this experience.
Want to give a big thank you to all of the people who made this project possible, the muses. I am already looking forward to next year’s project!