“Project 440, the education group founded in 2006 by Philadelphia Orchestra assistant double bassist Joseph Conyers (pictured right), is taking over management of the All City program from the School District,” writes Peter Dobrin in Tuesday’s (2/24) Philadelphia Inquirer. The program, which “draws hundreds of music students—mostly high school age—from across the city in a competitive process, includes not only an orchestra, but also a band, a choir, and a jazz band. Conyers says plans are not yet fully formed, but are likely to include developing partnerships with such groups as the Philadelphia Orchestra, Curtis Institute of Music, and Settlement Music School. One significant change has already been decided. Next season, All City auditions will be opened up to children of any taxpaying Philadelphia family, including those at charter and private schools. The double bassist also wants to add instrumental lessons for every All City participant (right now, only about half are taking lessons), provide college and career advice, and institute training in entrepreneurship and community engagement…. Conyers and the School District are planning on placing both 440 and the All City program under the umbrella of a separate nonprofit.”
Posted February 24, 2015
Photo: Joseph Conyers in rehearsal with members of the bass section of the Philadelphia school district’s All City Orchestra Program. Conyers’ education group Project 440 will take over the program. Photo by Ed Hille
