The Education and Community Engagement (EdCE) and Youth Orchestra Division (YOD) constituencies will join together in Baltimore for a combined Pre-Conference Half-Day Meeting for 2026, the 50th anniversary of YOD. This is a dedicated time for professionals from member orchestras who specialize in education and community work to learn together while building and strengthening their constituency connections.

Topics include exploring how a community’s unique history, culture, and voice can shape a vibrant musical ecosystem that fosters youth development and leadership. Participants will hear from organizations collaborating around a shared youth-centered mission, engage directly with young artists, co-create a community composition, and take part in dynamic conversations on best practices for building supportive networks and programs that empower youth to realize their creative potential.

Please note: the Education and Community Engagement (EdCE) and Youth Orchestra Division (YOD) Half-Day meeting is designed for and open to professionals from member orchestras who specialize in this work. If you have any questions, please contact nlee@americanorchestras.org and hbriere@americanorchestras.org. Space may be limited and therefore priority will be given to registrants from the EdCE and YOD constituencies.

Cost: $80 Early Bird (by April 16), $90 Regular

Enjoy a special gathering with fellow members of the ALAANA Affinity Group, designed to foster connections and meaningful conversations to support orchestra leaders, administrators, and musicians who identify as people of African, Latinx, Asian, Arab/Middle Eastern, or Native American descent (ALAANA).

If you are not already part of the ALAANA Affinity Group, opt in via this form; please be sure to be logged in to your member account. You will be redirected to your profile page after submitting the form. If you need help with your login, contact Member Services at member@americanorchestras.org. You can also contact Sam Andrew at sandrew@americanorchestras.org if you have any questions about the affinity group.