Education and Outreach

"Millions of Americans earn a living in the arts and humanities, and the non-profit and for-profit arts industries are important parts of both our cultural heritage and our economy...We must recognize the contributions of the arts and humanities not only by supporting the artists of today, but also by giving opportunities to the creative thinkers of tomorrow. Educators across our country are opening young minds, fostering innovation, and developing imaginations through arts education." - President Obama

Firebird Ensemble offers a large variety of educational activities including workshops, lectures, performances, readings and residencies. Each residency or educational event that Firebird Ensemble undertakes is tailored specifically for the audience(s). We believe that in order for educational/outreach activities to be meaningful - the repertoire must be thoughtfully chosen, the performances exceptional and the educational content rich. 

Presenters and educators frequently express concern to me regarding new audiences’ receptiveness to contemporary chamber music. However it has been my experience through extensive community outreach with Firebird Ensemble (at numerous venues with extremely diverse audiences) that excellent performances of inspired contemporary music repertoire combined with educational commentary and discussion is a combination which speaks enthusiastically to new audiences of all ages and cultural backgrounds. In past seasons Firebird Ensemble has undertaken educational projects and residencies at Tufts University (Medford, MA), Apple Hill Center for Chamber Music (Nelson, NH), Longy School of Music (Cambridge, MA), New England Conservatory (Boston, MA), Wellesley College (Wellesley, MA), Fitchburg State College (Fitchburg, MA), Amherst College (Amherst, MA), Walden School for Young Musicians (Dublin, NH), Stanford University (Palo Alto, CA), Boston Arts Academy (Boston, MA) among many others. In the 2011-2012 season Firebird Ensemble will conduct residencies at Chapman University, (California) and University of Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania).

If you would like more information about our educational and outreach activities or wish to discuss a residency project involving Firebird Ensemble please contact Artistic Director - Kate Vincent (617 480 5112)

To download a sample list of some of education workshops and activities we offer please click here