Program Spotlight: Living a Musical Life Through the Talent Development Program

By Lucy Hattemer, Program Manager

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It takes a lot to succeed in the music world. Orchestra rehearsals, sectional classes, weekly private lessons, connections to professional musicians, performance opportunities, time for regular practice, knowledge of summer programs…the list goes on, and it all adds up to create a high barrier to participation.

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At DCYOP, we believe that all young people should have access to the transformative power of music education. For us, this means meeting students where they are and supporting them with the resources they need in their personal journeys.

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Three years ago we launched the Talent Development Program to address some of the barriers students face in pursuing music at a high level. All TDP students meet with professional musicians who serve as mentors, helping students define and pursue their goals. Some families need additional financial assistance, and these students also receive weekly private lessons and full orchestra scholarships through TDP.

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Oscar was one of the first students to be accepted into the program. When he first joined DCYOP five years ago, he played bassoon in one of DCYOP’s intermediate ensembles, the Repertory Orchestra. He attended every orchestra rehearsal on Saturdays and practiced on his own throughout the week. Before TDP, he did not take private lessons.

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Oscar’s mom, Carolina, talked about their commitment to music education.

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“It’s important for us that Oscar evolves and grows musically with help from professional musicians, but that’s very expensive,” she said. “We wanted to take the opportunity to have that support.”

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Oscar joined TDP and three years later he now plays in the wind section with our top two ensembles, the Youth Orchestra and the Youth Philharmonic. He takes weekly lessons with Dr. Amylia Barnett through TDP. Oscar said he appreciates the opportunity to work one-on-one with her on technique.

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“TDP helps me single out every aspect of music I did not know I was supposed to study,” Oscar said, “stuff like: in rehearsal, I could only hear myself and others. Practicing in TDP I was able to hear myself (alone) and continue improving.”

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“My favorite part is being able to single out measures and sections that are difficult, both in orchestra repertoire and solo pieces, and get better at them.”

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Like Oscar, some students are interested in performing professionally. Other students are interested in composition, music therapy, or music education – or a path entirely outside of music. We adjust the program to address individual students’ needs and interests. This means that students work with a broad range of teachers and mentors, including orchestral musicians, arts administrators, music teachers, and even a horn player who played at the Grammys with Lizzo.

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