BOSTON STRING ACADEMY INC

Description

BSA was founded in November of 2012 and is a social change/youth development program that uses ensemble music to enable every child and youth to experience being an asset within her or his community. BSA develops citizens as well as musicians, who exhibit the core values of teamwork, commitment, respect, and empathy. Students thereby take responsibility for the music-making process, both individually and as a group. The learning in BSA is based in ensemble experience, with an individual attention component. The orchestra acts as a model society in which an atmosphere of competition between individuals is replaced by shared aspiration and investment. In ensemble training, students are guided by teachers, and also assist one another in musical learning and achievement through peer-mentoring.

Students’ primary musical identification is as an ensemble member. Emphasis is placed on creating a community that supports one another. Teachers and students alike are invested in both personal and community success, creating a place where children feel safe and challenged. Students build a sense of capability, endurance and resilience - owning a confidence about taking on enormous challenges in their lives. A deep sense of value, of being loved and appreciated, and a trust for group process and cooperation, enables them to feel that future achievement is within their reach.