Fellows of The Academy are some of the world's finest young professional musicians and are dedicated to a career combining musical excellence with education, community engagement, advocacy, and leadership. In this program, fellows and instrumental (band/string) music teachers work together in an in-depth performance residency, focusing on student-centered musical skill-building through creative approaches to skills-based work.

In addition, fellows of The Academy bring their artistry into schools through two interactive chamber ensemble performances (fall and spring) and deliver preparatory and reflective lessons surrounding each performance.

All work will be planned collaboratively and will incorporate the New York State Standards for Music Education as well as the New York City Blueprint for Teaching and Learning in Music. The Academy also provides a modest materials stipend and complimentary concert tickets to each partner school to further support the instrumental music program and its students.

The Academy Performance Residency requires:

• A New York State-certified instrumental music teacher who has been leading the music program for at least two years, and who is in the school building at least three days per week
• Collaborative planning sessions for the teacher with a fellow and staff of The Academy
• Professional development for the partner teacher and a fellow of The Academy