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Future Music Educators

Uniting Voices Chicago’s Future Music Educators (FME) Program supports the academic, professional development and future success of music education students and career teachers who reflect the diversity of America and the Uniting Voices Chicago (formerly Chicago Children's Choir) community.

A year-long paid mentorship provides training on culturally responsive, empowering, and sustaining teaching practices to a broad group of diverse educators. This program changes the lives of future music educators through accessible, resonant and meaningful learning experiences led by teachers with excellence, expertise and shared lived experience. The FME program aims to uplift educators of color and create strong allies by expanding diversity in music education.

This program is just one of our professional development opportunities for music educators. Learn more about our other opportunities here.

About the Mentorship Program

In this year-long paid program, a cohort of mentees glean insight into culturally responsive pedagogical practices through the experience of Uniting Voices Chicago’s unique methodology. Music educators have opportunities for observation, guest instruction of Uniting Voices Chicago ensembles, sharing sessions with their peers, and direct guidance from Uniting Voices Chicago's experienced faculty.

Program Details

  • Yearlong mentorship program
  • Cohort of 8-10 participants
  • Current college students may apply
  • Annual stipend available
  • Participation is not limited to Chicago


Program Commitment

  • Monthly meetings with Uniting Voices staff and cohort to build community
  • Observation of school and community-based programs in urban settings
  • Workshops with culture bearers on music education best practices
  • Participation in at least two pillar events in Chicago

Become a Future Music Educator

Do you want to lead the charge for greater diversity in music education? Apply to the Future Music Educators program today, and you can shape the leading voices of tomorrow.

Application components

  • Demographic survey
  • Written essay or video

Timeline

  • Applications for the 2024-25 cohort are currently closed. Check back soon for updates on the 2025-26 cohort!
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Meet our Future Music Educators

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Isaiah Calaranan (CCC alum)

University of Illinois UC ‘24
Lauren Harper

Lauren Harper

University of Illinois UC ‘24
Amabel Sebastian

Amabel Sebastian

University of Illinois UC ‘27
Abria Shaw

Abria Shaw

Northern Illinois University '24
Julian Goods quote

Being a part of the FME cohort means so much to me. To be able to talk to colleagues and friends who look like you and have similar experiences is so great, but often hard to find. During our time together we talk about different field related issues, we share resources and ideas, and grow together. Being able to learn from the incredible [Uniting Voices Chicago] staff is so rewarding. This program is so important to have as there are very few spaces for Black music educators on the rise, despite there being such a need.

Julian Goods University of Michigan, MM ‘21