Damon Zavala, a graduate student, secures the Sphinx Orchestral Futurist Scholarship.
The National Orchestral Institute + Festival (NOI+F) has awarded the 2023 Futurist Fellowships, a unique programme designed to nurture the artistic development and community engagement of early-career musicians. One of the recipients, Damon Zavala, a first-year viola performance master's student, has set clear objectives that emphasise both performance excellence and impactful outreach.
The 2023 Futurist Fellowships are tailored to provide professional development for promising young musicians, offering a blend of performance opportunities, educational experiences, and community involvement. Fellows benefit from mentorship and participate in high-level orchestral settings, preparing them for successful careers in the music industry.
Damon Zavala, however, has taken his fellowship a step further. In addition to honing his skills as a musician, he is dedicated to engaging with youth through outreach programmes. He is actively involved in the Youth Mentorship Program, connecting with young musicians and fostering mentorship relationships that offer guidance and inspiration.
Moreover, Zavala participates in the K-12 Music Project, an initiative aimed at bringing orchestral music education to schools, thereby expanding access to classical music for students who might otherwise have limited opportunities. His involvement in these programmes underscores a commitment to building a supportive musical community and encouraging the next generation of musicians.
Zavala's goals for his fellowship extend beyond personal artistic growth. He seeks to reach out to historically underserved communities and promote diverse perspectives in classical music within arts organisations. His fellowship aims to further his efforts in this regard, providing a platform for him to make a meaningful impact.
The Futurist Fellowship is not just about artistic development; it is also about leadership mentoring. By participating in the Youth Mentorship Program and the K-12 Music Project, Zavala is not only learning from experienced mentors but also contributing to the growth and development of others.
The 2023 Futurist Fellowships are a collaborative effort between the National Orchestral Institute + Festival, the National Philharmonic, and the Sphinx Organization. These initiatives, including the Youth Mentorship Program and the K-12 Music Project, are part of a broader effort to promote outreach and diversity in classical music.
In summary, the 2023 Futurist Fellowships serve a dual purpose of cultivating musicianship and expanding orchestral music's reach into communities. Damon Zavala, with his commitment to both artistic growth and community engagement, exemplifies these goals and serves as an inspiration for future fellows.
Damon Zavala's objectives during his fellowship emphasize not only his personal growth as a musician, but also his dedication to education-and-self-development and personal-growth through community engagement. In addition to learning from seasoned mentors, he is actively participating in outreach programs, such as the Youth Mentorship Program and the K-12 Music Project, to foster learning and growth in the next generation of musicians.
