2024 – Institute for Music Leadership https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu Leadership with Music at the Core Wed, 18 Jun 2025 19:01:51 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/IML_Logo2019-60x60.png 2024 – Institute for Music Leadership https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu 32 32 Ashley Schlusselberg: Middlebury Language Schools German for Singers Program https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/pastwinner/ashley-schlusselberg-middlebury-language-schools-german-for-singers-program/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 18:59:01 +0000 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/?post_type=pastwinner&p=29877 Ashley Schusselberg, an accomplished soprano, participated in a prestigious seven-week German exchange fellowship. The Middlebury Language Schools required her to speak exclusively in German, enabling her to form a deep and authentic connection to the language. A key aspect of her experience was engaging with German through her Jewish heritage, studying pivotal moments in Jewish history. This approach gave her

]]> Ashley Schusselberg, an accomplished soprano, participated in a prestigious seven-week German exchange fellowship. The Middlebury Language Schools required her to speak exclusively in German, enabling her to form a deep and authentic connection to the language. A key aspect of her experience was engaging with German through her Jewish heritage, studying pivotal moments in Jewish history. This approach gave her a profound, personal insight into Jewish-German relations. The fellowship reshaped her perspective on language learning, highlighting the vital role of immersion in developing both linguistic proficiency and cultural understanding. Highlighting the significance of the experience, Ashley expressed:“ I left the program with a much greater appreciation for the complexity and richness of the German language and culture and its relevance to my personal journey. The program also gave me the opportunity to travel to Germany for the first time and reinforced my interests in pursuing a Fulbright while providing me with further connections in Germany to supplement my application. This experience offered an emotional and personal understanding unlike anything I had encountered before, profoundly shaping my identity and perspective.”

]]> Jack Earnhart: Collaborative Development and Optimization of Dental Profiling Device https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/pastwinner/jack-earnhart-collaborative-development-and-optimization-of-dental-profiling-device/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 18:56:07 +0000 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/?post_type=pastwinner&p=29874 Jack Earnhart, a graduate student in Music Teaching and Learning at Eastman, was awarded a Special Opportunity Grant to support his project on addressing a common mismatch between the anatomy of the facial area that contacts a brass mouthpiece, and the conventional rim geometry used in most designs. To solve this issue, Jack developed a method for creating

]]> Jack Earnhart, a graduate student in Music Teaching and Learning at Eastman, was awarded a Special Opportunity Grant to support his project on addressing a common mismatch between the anatomy of the facial area that contacts a brass mouthpiece, and the conventional rim geometry used in most designs. To solve this issue, Jack developed a method for creating custom dental profiles to guide the design of individualized mouthpieces. The current prototype features a rim that molds in real time to the player’s unique dental structure during performance. The design was inspired by “boil and bite” mouthguards commonly used in contact sports. Players heat the mouthpiece in water, allow it to cool to a safe temperature, then play as usual during which the device adapts to the contours of the face. This self-molding process removes the need for in-person customization and provides a scalable, user-friendly solution with strong potential for future marketing and distribution. Jack gratefully acknowledged that the support from the Special Opportunity Grant was instrumental in this project, “The budget and timeline constraints that come with company product development are often antithetical to creative development. The Special Opportunity Grant gave me an opportunity to explore and develop novel manufacturing processes within my mouthpiece manufacturing company.”

]]> Julian Stuart-Burns: Valencia International Performing Arts Festival 2024 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/pastwinner/julian-stuart-burns-valencia-international-performing-arts-festival-2024/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 18:51:22 +0000 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/?post_type=pastwinner&p=29871 A graduate student in composition at the Eastman School of Music, Julian Stuart-Burns participated in Valencia International Performing Arts Festival 2024, where his work was premiered by the internationally acclaimed Mivos Quartet. Alongside the premiere, Julian presented his work to VIPA participants and faculty, marking his first time presenting professionally outside of a school environment. The opportunity to share his music

]]> A graduate student in composition at the Eastman School of Music, Julian Stuart-Burns participated in Valencia International Performing Arts Festival 2024, where his work was premiered by the internationally acclaimed Mivos Quartet. Alongside the premiere, Julian presented his work to VIPA participants and faculty, marking his first time presenting professionally outside of a school environment. The opportunity to share his music with composers who were new to his work sparked thoughtful dialogue and offered meaningful validation. During the festival, Julian also had private lessons with faculty members Jorge Villavicencio Grossmann, Nicola LeFanu, and Carlos David Perales, which he described as some of the most valuable and insightful of their academic experience. Julian remarked on the experience, “The Special Opportunity Grant gave me the resources I needed to pursue an impactful trip to VIPA 2024. I made amazing friends, met incredible mentors, and I got to experience a city unlike any I have been to.”

]]> Rachel Smith: Bang on a Can Summer Festival https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/pastwinner/rachel-smith-bang-on-a-can-summer-festival/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 18:45:46 +0000 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/?post_type=pastwinner&p=29867 An undergraduate alumnus in viola performance at Eastman, Rachel Smith participated in LOUD Weekend, performing in four ensembles and preparing seven works from the contemporary music repertoire, including three world premieres. She collaborated closely with emerging composers, workshopping new pieces written specifically for the event. Additionally, Rachel had the distinguished opportunity to work with renowned composers David Lang and Meredith

]]> An undergraduate alumnus in viola performance at Eastman, Rachel Smith participated in LOUD Weekend, performing in four ensembles and preparing seven works from the contemporary music repertoire, including three world premieres. She collaborated closely with emerging composers, workshopping new pieces written specifically for the event. Additionally, Rachel had the distinguished opportunity to work with renowned composers David Lang and Meredith Monk on two of their earlier works. Looking back, Rachel said,“It was incredible to work with some of the world’s most prominent leaders in contemporary classical music and to connect with other up-and-coming musicians and composers who are just as passionate about shaping the future of new music. Over those three weeks, I built personal and musical connections with amazing people who’ll definitely be part of my journey for years to come.”

]]> Pedro Sperb: Lute Society of America LuteFest https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/pastwinner/pedro-sperb-lute-society-of-america-lutefest/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 18:43:15 +0000 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/?post_type=pastwinner&p=29864 A dedicated lutenist and educator, Pedro Sperb had the opportunity to present innovative ideas for the future success of the Lute Society of America (LSA). His contributions led to an invitation to apply for a position on the LSA’s board, an acknowledgment of both his artistic and strategic vision for the field. As part of the experience, Pedro also performed

]]> A dedicated lutenist and educator, Pedro Sperb had the opportunity to present innovative ideas for the future success of the Lute Society of America (LSA). His contributions led to an invitation to apply for a position on the LSA’s board, an acknowledgment of both his artistic and strategic vision for the field. As part of the experience, Pedro also performed in a showcase recital, gaining significant visibility and even receiving offers for complimentary instrument repair in recognition of their performance. He collaborated with the LSA to develop an educational program that introduces the lute to young children, with a focus on reaching diverse and underserved communities. Reflecting on the impact of the opportunity, Pedro shared: “This was a life-changing experience. I had the opportunity to connect with the most important people in the field of lute and early music,not only players but also the administrative board of the Lute Society of America. I had the chance to expose my ideas to each individual and branded my capacities in an effective manner, which granted me a sustainable relationship with the organization.”

]]> Jack Snelling: Missouri International Composers Festival https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/pastwinner/jack-snelling-missouri-international-composers-festival/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 18:41:05 +0000 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/?post_type=pastwinner&p=29861 As a graduate student in Jazz and Contemporary Media at the Eastman School of Music, Jack Snelling spent the summer working as Production Manager at the Missouri International Composers Festival, a hands-on, fast-paced role that offered real-world experience in concert production and event logistics. Looking back on the festival, Jack said: “Getting to work at the Missouri International Composers Festival

]]> As a graduate student in Jazz and Contemporary Media at the Eastman School of Music, Jack Snelling spent the summer working as Production Manager at the Missouri International Composers Festival, a hands-on, fast-paced role that offered real-world experience in concert production and event logistics. Looking back on the festival, Jack said: “Getting to work at the Missouri International Composers Festival was a fantastic experience that would not have been feasible without the assistance of a Special Opportunity Grant. I was able to gain invaluable experience during the week-long festival, including co-producing a concert and coordinating transportation, all while building amazing connections with fantastic composers and performers.”

]]> Floris Van der Veken: 14th International Ensemble & Composers Academy for Contemporary Music https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/pastwinner/floris-van-der-veken/ Mon, 24 Mar 2025 17:26:40 +0000 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/?post_type=pastwinner&p=28939 Floris Van der Veken: 14th International Ensemble & Composers Academy for Contemporary Music

Floris Van der Veken, a DMA student and Arts Leadership Certificate of Achievement candidate, was awarded a Special Opportunity Grant to attend the Impuls Festival, the 14th International Ensemble and Composers Academy for Contemporary Music. At the festival, Floris engaged in meaningful collaborations, built an international network

]]> Floris Van der Veken: 14th International Ensemble & Composers Academy for Contemporary Music

Floris Van der Veken, a DMA student and Arts Leadership Certificate of Achievement candidate, was awarded a Special Opportunity Grant to attend the Impuls Festival, the 14th International Ensemble and Composers Academy for Contemporary Music. At the festival, Floris engaged in meaningful collaborations, built an international network of peers, and participated in in-depth discussions on contemporary music and the evolving landscape of the music industry. Reflecting on the experience, Floris highlighted the opportunity to explore career development with renowned saxophonist Marcus Weiss, delving into both the practicalities of running a contemporary music ensemble and the potential of interdisciplinary artistic collectives. The Impuls Festival offered a unique and intimate window into today’s new music scene, enabling Floris to connect with leading voices in the field, an experience made possible through the support of the Special Opportunity Grant.

]]> Jack Earnhart – Vocational Education Program in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/pastwinner/jack-earnhart/ Mon, 24 Mar 2025 17:03:06 +0000 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/?post_type=pastwinner&p=28926 Eastman Masters student and ALP certificate candidate Jack Earnhart recently completed a vocational education program in electrical and mechanical engineering with funding awarded by the Institute for Music Leadership’s Special Opportunity Grant. This funding allowed Jack to complete a facility tour, gain valuable repair experience, and education in fundamentals of AC/DC motors at Pro Rebuilders, Inc, in Gates, New York. The program

]]> Eastman Masters student and ALP certificate candidate Jack Earnhart recently completed a vocational education program in electrical and mechanical engineering with funding awarded by the Institute for Music Leadership’s Special Opportunity Grant. This funding allowed Jack to complete a facility tour, gain valuable repair experience, and education in fundamentals of AC/DC motors at Pro Rebuilders, Inc, in Gates, New York. The program also allowed him to get practical experience in linear motion systems design, particularly with the theory and optimization of advanced mechanical motions. Reflecting on the experience, Jack states, “Knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems optimization extends past simple repair work is enabling me to develop innovative design solutions across various industries. An element of my role as project manager at the Eastman Laboratory for Performance Science (formerly Performance Ergonomics Lab) is to future-proof design capabilities and be at the forefront of performing arts medicine treatment solutions. As technology continues to progress, knowledge of what makes electric wearable solutions possible will be essential in driving innovation and ensuring the development of cost-effective devices.” 

 

 

]]> Shin & Yang Duo: Gabriela Lena Frank Piano Duo Recording https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/pastwinner/shin-yang-duo-gabriela-lena-frank-piano-duo-recording/ Fri, 13 Dec 2024 21:03:25 +0000 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/?post_type=pastwinner&p=27819 HaEun Yang and Dongwon Shin won a grant to support performing and recording piano duet and two-piano works by the living composer Gabriela Lena Frank. Known for her distinctive blend of cultural influences, Frank draws from her rich multicultural heritage, which includes Peruvian, Chinese, Lithuanian-Jewish, and American roots. Her works explore themes of identity, community, and cultural fusion. By recording and

]]> HaEun Yang and Dongwon Shin won a grant to support performing and recording piano duet and two-piano works by the living composer Gabriela Lena Frank. Known for her distinctive blend of cultural influences, Frank draws from her rich multicultural heritage, which includes Peruvian, Chinese, Lithuanian-Jewish, and American roots. Her works explore themes of identity, community, and cultural fusion. By recording and sharing her music, the Shin & Yang duo aim to enhance her visibility in the classical music world and contribute to a richer, more inclusive repertoire. This project underscores why diversity in music matters and reinforces our commitment to amplifying the voices of contemporary women composers.

]]> Aaron Tan: L’orgue moderne Recording https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/pastwinner/aaron-tan-french-solo-organ-recording/ Fri, 13 Dec 2024 21:01:47 +0000 https://iml.esm.wdev.rochester.edu/?post_type=pastwinner&p=27816 Aaron Tan won a grant to support a recording project to raise awareness of a largely forgotten collection of French solo organ music curated by Charles-Marie Widor and Alexandre Guilmant—L’orgue moderne—whose publication dates span from 1894 to 1930 and features composition by organ students of the Paris Conservatoire and other accomplished young composers of organ music. Many of these pieces are

]]> Aaron Tan won a grant to support a recording project to raise awareness of a largely forgotten collection of French solo organ music curated by Charles-Marie Widor and Alexandre Guilmant—L’orgue moderne—whose publication dates span from 1894 to 1930 and features composition by organ students of the Paris Conservatoire and other accomplished young composers of organ music. Many of these pieces are of moderate difficulty, and would contribute greatly to an era of organ repertoire that has been limited to the works of a handful of major composers. The goal of this initial proposal would be to create a high-quality video and audio recording of ten pieces from this series on a historic Cavaillé-Coll organ that would have been contemporary to the compositions.

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