PROJECT MUSIC and King School Host 11th Annual El Sistema Residency March 28-30

PROJECT MUSIC, in partnership with King School, will co-host the 11th annual El Sistema Residency from March 28–30, bringing together young musicians from PROJECT MUSIC, King School’s middle and upper schools, and visiting students from El Sistema USA programs along the east coast.

This three‑day residency is the largest annual gathering of El Sistema programs on the east coast. The event is being held at King School Performing Arts Center and is designed to deepen cross‑community connection through ensemble music‑making, cultural exchange, and collaborative creativity .

This year’s residency centers on Chamber Music and Small Ensembles, emphasizing student agency, communication, creativity, and shared ownership of the artistic process. Under the guidance of Dan Trahey, Director of the Archipelago Project and Collective Conservatory, students will participate in Collective Composition, creating original works inspired by the mash‑up concept and rooted in their own stories and lived experiences.

“We are proud to host the El Sistema Residency at King School again this year,” said Garrett Mendez, PROJECT MUSIC Artistic Director and Director of Performing Arts at King School. “This partnership creates a rare space where young musicians from different communities come together, learn from one another, and discover the power of music to connect us across our differences.”

The residency will also feature special guest artists Calliope Brass, known for their innovative, story‑driven performances and commitment to elevating women brass musicians. Members of Calliope Brass are active performers across Broadway, major symphony orchestras, and national stages, bringing a dynamic professional presence to the residency workshops and performances.

“The El Sistema model is the foundation of our work at PROJECT MUSIC, rooted in building community, confidence, and opportunity,” said Rachel Morrow, Managing Director of PROJECT MUSIC. “This residency is a powerful example of those values.”

The public is welcome to attend a special concert on Sunday, March 29th at the King Performing Arts Center. Admission is free.

To learn more about the El Sistema Residency, click here.