Black Woodwind Virtual Lounge
Looking to connect with other Black woodwind players? This meet-up is perfect for woodwind musicians of all ages and stages in their careers. Come say hello and build connections with fellow professionals in a welcoming and relaxed space. Hosted by David Norville, Ebonee Thomas, and Titus Underwood, this virtual gathering is all about friendship and community—no instruments required! December 17, 2024 7:30PM ET

Join us on Wednesday, December 11, for a webinar exploring updated musician tenure resources from the American Federation of Musicians’ Symphonic Services Division and the Black Orchestral Network. Led by Emilio Carlo (BON) and Rochelle Skolnick (AFM), this free League of American Orchestras member webinar (fees apply for non-members) offers tools to spark conversations about tenure improvements in orchestras. Part of the League of American Orchestras’ Inclusive Stages program, this session is supported by the Sakana Foundation. Can't attend live? Register to access the recording. Learn more and sign up today!

AFM and BON Members attend for free! More info with your member organization.

Join us for this month’s community conversation featuring special guests Alexandria Hoffman, flutist, and co-founder and Executive Director of Sound Mind, an organization dedicated to fostering wellness in the classical music world, and Dr. Zuly Inirio, vocalist and social worker. Together, they will share insights and tips on the best mental health practices for classical musicians. This session will provide valuable tools for managing the unique pressures of the classical music industry and cultivating long-term well-being. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage in an essential dialogue about mental health in music.

We’re thrilled to announce our 2nd Summit on October 5, 2024, from 10 AM to 6 PM EST in New York City. Join us for a FREE in-person day filled with inspiring connections, engaging discussions, and transformative learning. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a vibrant community celebrating the rich contributions of Black musicians in orchestras and the arts.

Location: 159 West 25th St., 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10001.
Don't miss out on this exciting day—be there and be inspired!

August’s Community Conversation is surely one you don’t want to miss. We will be joined by BON Founding Member and former Seattle Symphony Cellist, Joy Payton-Stevens in addition to Cincinnati Symphony COO, Robert McGrath.

We will gain insights on the tenure process and the work required to reach successful labor agreements which benefit new musicians in American ensembles.

August’s Community Conversation is surely one you don’t want to miss. We will be joined by BON Founding Member and former Seattle Symphony Cellist, Joy Payton-Stevens in addition to Cincinnati Symphony COO, Robert McGrath.

We will gain insights on the tenure process and the work required to reach successful labor agreements which benefit new musicians in American ensembles.

June's Community Conversation is truly for the culture! We're creating a safe space for Black musicians to come together in celebration, unity, and joy! Let's uplift each other, share our stories, and celebrate our history together. Let’s celebrate our vibrant community! RSVP for the Zoom link.

Hosted by Titus Underwood

with guests Dr. Tammy Kernodle & Richard Desinord

June's Community Conversation is truly for the culture! We're creating a safe space for Black musicians to come together in celebration, unity, and joy! Let's uplift each other, share our stories, and celebrate our history together. Let’s celebrate our vibrant community! RSVP for the Zoom link.

Hosted by Titus Underwood

with guests Dr. Tammy Kernodle & Richard Desinord

Join our Community Conversation this month as we dive into navigating a versatile music career! Gain valuable tips and insights from experienced pros in the field.

Ready to connect with fellow musicians? Join us for a super chill virtual hangout exclusively for Black string players!

No pressure, just good vibes and great company.

RSVP for the Zoom link.

Curious about orchestras within the industry who have adopted new contract language for audition and tenure practices?

Hear directly from leaders and musicians representing the Detroit, Charlotte and Seattle symphonies on how they are fostering equitable change in tenure and hiring practices.

Hosted by David Norville and Jennifer Arnold with guests:

David Fisk, President and CEO, Charlotte Symphony

Kenneth Thompkins, Principal Trombone and Negotiating Committee Chair, Detroit Symphony

Jennifer Adair, Vice President and General Manager, Seattle Symphony

Register Here!

Join us on March 25th for an engaging evening discussing employment in higher education!

Discover valuable tips and insights on interviewing for and securing faculty and staff positions in academia.

Attend a discussion with experienced leaders with an opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

Register Today!

Join us for a special Black History Month-themed community conversation hosted by the Black Orchestral Network!

This February, we invite you to share and celebrate the rich tapestry of Black history that shapes our lives and inspires us every day. From iconic figures like Angela Davis, Malcolm X, and Bayard Rustin to the untold stories of unsung heroes and personal narratives, we want to hear it all!

Bring your stories, your memories, and your experiences as we come together to honor the past, celebrate the present, and envision a brighter future. This event is open to all, so mark your calendars and join us for an evening of reflection, connection, and community.

Register today!

Join us for BON Nightcap @SphinxConnect on 1/26/24.

Black Music Seen LIVE @SphinxConnect

An intergenerational conversation between orchestra musicians that serves to Tell Our Stories, including what progress they have seen and what still needs to be done.

On October 21, with the generous support of the Mellon Foundation and the New York State Council on the Arts, Black Orchestral Network (BON) is excited to host the first BON Summit in New York City!

Centering BON’s continued mission of Telling Our Stories, Lifting Our Voices, and Cultivating Community, the summit will feature change leaders, advocates, and strategists from the orchestral community who are actively engaged in moving the industry forward.