This mission was created with the goal of furthering diversity, equity and inclusion as it relates to classical music and live performance opportunities for young musicians. BridgeMusik recognizes that there are systemic factors which have contributed to inequities within the arts. Understanding this history, as well as the socio-economic and demographic issues which have led to inequities in music education, is essential in creating change and increasing opportunities for all young people. The COVID-19 pandemic has enabled BridgeMusik to increase DEIA efforts by providing many new opportunities for students and faculty mentors made possible through the wonders of technology.
The mission of BridgeMusik has three essential components – students, mentors and the audience. BridgeMusik is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility in each of these areas.
Equity means fairness and opportunity for all as well as the elimination of barriers. BridgeMusik is committed to providing opportunities to all young musicians. No student will ever be turned away from the program due to financial constraints. Furthermore, BridgeMusik’s scholarship and fellowship programs provide specific opportunities for young musicians from underrepresented groups within the classical arts.
Diversity means the similarities and differences of community members, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability or attributes, religious or ethical values system, national origin, and political beliefs. BridgeMusik celebrates diversity within the student body, team of mentors and the audiences we serve. Diversity is embodied in the community which BridgeMusik has developed since 2018. BridgeMusik is always seeking new ways to increase diversity efforts by developing new connections within the community and expanding programming initiatives.
Inclusion means to create a community in which all members feel a sense of belonging, and feel welcomed, supported, respected and valued. The mission of BridgeMusik is dependent on creating an atmosphere in which all community members – students, faculty mentors and audience – feel included and valued. Nurturing an inclusive environment is one of the most important components of BridgeMusik. Creating a safe and welcoming community for all of the participants is critical to the success of the program.
Accessibility refers to the quality of being able to be reached or entered. The mission of BridgeMusik is to allow every student and every audience member to enter. This means that all students are invited to enter into the artistic work of the program in addition to the accessible physical spaces where we meet and perform. BridgeMusik also invites audiences into the musical experience, making the music more accessible; in addition BridgeMusik is committed to performing in spaces which are physically accessible to all community members.
