Learn, Explore, Adapt, Diversify
Wintergreen Music is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 6th year of the LEAD Cooperative! Our six programs (Arts Administration, Collaborative Piano, Composition, Conducting, Instrumental Studies, and Vocal Studies) are designed for students on the cusp of their professional careers. Each program offers hands-on experiences, valuable mentorship, and opportunities to develop the skills and connections needed to take the next step in their professional journey.
Taking place alongside the Wintergreen Music Festival, LEAD provides a unique opportunity for students to become part of a vibrant musical community. Participants build meaningful relationships with fellow students, faculty, Wintergreen Music Festival Artists, staff, board members, donors, and supporters while gaining valuable insight and experience that will help shape their futures in music.
The LEAD Cooperative offers an educational experience unlike any other in the music industry. Studies include program-specific classes, one-on-one mentorship, cross-disciplinary workshops and masterclasses, and chamber music experiences both within and beyond students’ primary disciplines. Emerging artists also gain valuable training beyond the classroom, including financial readiness, portfolio development, and stage presence. Patrons are welcome to attend numerous free, public LEAD events, including masterclasses, performances, and more.
Now entering its sixth year, LEAD has served more than 160 students ages 18–49. With outstanding feedback from past participants, continued support from granting organizations, and a growing community of donors, the Cooperative continues to enrich the Wintergreen Music Festival experience while preparing the next generation of musical leaders.
Accessibility and inclusion remain at the heart of LEAD. Through dedicated support from our community and special funding, Wintergreen Music works to make its educational opportunities accessible to emerging musicians. Thanks to the generous support of donors and granting organizations, tuition is FREE for all accepted students!
Ways to Support the
LEAD Cooperative
There are many ways to support the LEAD Cooperative! Help sustain our tuition-free model through a financial gift, volunteer your time to assist with transportation, attend student performances and events, and more.
LEAD Cooperative Alumni
Many alumni from LEAD have been accepted to graduate schools with tuition waivers or on assistantships, including to Yale, Juilliard, UCLA, the University of Texas at Austin, and the Royal Irish Academy of Music. Numerous other LEAD alumni have won jobs around the country, including at the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the University of Michigan, the Richmond Symphony, the New York Symphony, the National Philharmonic, the New World Symphony, Heartland Sings, and the Metropolitan Opera.
