Season 17.

We remain committed to supporting artists and building community through chamber music.

In Schools and at Juvenile Hall.

Thanks to the David Kaun Endowed Youth Outreach Program, MiM once again launches its expanded series of youth programs. From October through May - MiM presents both online and in-person programs for youth. In addition to schools, we continue our partnership with Santa Cruz Juvenile Hall presenting dynamic programs featuring a varied roster of renowned musicians. Learn more.

In the last few years, our total number of youth programs has increased five-fold, from six in our inaugural year to 30 in 2022-23! This season students will receive visits from a clarinetist, and organist, a guitarist, a percussionist, a violinist, a violist, a cellist, a flutist, and a bassist, all while hearing personal stories and experiencing the wonderful ways in which music can become a cherished companion.

A film version of the David Arben program developed by Rebecca and her father, John Jackson continues to be shared with students. Through solo violin and words, this moving tribute celebrates violinist and Holocaust survivor, Arben who lived a life overflowing with themes of tolerance, self respect, persistence, overcoming trauma, love of life, and taking responsibility for a better future.

Harmony Youth Choir.

The Harmony Choir grew out of a vision in 2019 that Kate Alm and Rebecca Jackson-Picht share for serving underserved youth through music. Harmony Youth Choir, one part of the trio of Musical Soulmates projects (Suzuki Piano Studio, Harmony Youth Choir, and Performer’s Collective) nurtures the whole child through music. Each session builds community through disciplined and joyful music making. Students receive vocal training, learn diction, movement, positive message songs, music reading through hand motions, and ear training from co leaders. The Harmony Youth Choir develops the next generation of youth leaders in music while closing the racial gap in performance representation for youth as young as six years old, and cultivates resilience and joy.

El Sistema.

Music in May has collaborated with El Sistema Santa Cruz for over a decade and next season we are excited to continue our partnership. On Friday May 24th, 4:00-5:00p, we are delighted to present a free, public workshop at E.A. Hall Middle School in Watsonville in which MiM festival artists will coach the El Sistema Youth Symphony.