Over 30 passion projects of varying genres and formats are being supported through the initiative

The New World Symphony (NWS), an American orchestral academy, has announced its 2023/24 BLUE Projects, which now comprises over 30 initiatives showcasing the innovation and artistry of NWS Fellows and alumni.

Standing for "build, learn, understand, and experiment," NWS BLUE is the academy’s professional development program aimed at expanding the classical music field through leadership training and project-based experimentation.

The BLUE Projects range from performances and multimedia experiences, to conversations and original digital presentations across diverse genres and cultures. 

Projects include broadening instrumental repertoire; highlighting compositions by women, indigenous creators, and Hawaiian and Black artists; releasing an album produced by NWS Fellows; creating new apps; and sharing music across various communities and schools. 

Each project begins with an original idea by a Fellow or alumnus, which then progresses from concept to execution, guided by NWS staff or industry professionals with coaching experience.

The 2023/24 BLUE Project proposals were approved by a panel of staff adjudicators; the lead candidates then recruited team members to collaborate on and realize their ideas.

Accepted projects were selected based on artistic content, impact and innovation, financial and staff resource feasibility, sustainability beyond the project’s implementation period, incorporation of EDIB principles, and services to the NWS mission audience and community.

For the full list and descriptions of projects and their performance times, click here. 

“Through the NWS BLUE Program, Fellows and alumni are challenged to become innovative, independent thinkers who develop a practice of constant experimentation,” explained Heather Osowiecki, NWS’s director of entrepreneurial leadership. 

“Project-based learning and mentorship provide unique opportunities for collaboration and relationship-building within the NWS community and beyond,” Osowieki added. “As Fellows leave Miami Beach (location of the New World Concert hall), taking their talents to new communities and launching subsequent projects as alumni, it has been exciting to witness the compounding impact of NWS BLUE in evolving our art form.” 

Additionally, the impacts of the NWS BLUE program are currently being studied as part of a long-term research project on sustainable arts practice — supported by NEA Research Labs: The Arts, Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The research explores the arts industry’s current and emerging issues, challenges, opportunities, and provides suggestions for best practice.