NYC Gazette

Juilliard Pre-College has introduced the Kayden Music Commissioning Program, thanks to a generous endowment by alumnus Jerold S. Kayden and his wife Stephanie. The program aims to support a diverse range of composers and their works, with eight to ten new pieces funded annually.

The inaugural commissions from the Kayden Music Commissioning Program will be showcased at the Juilliard Pre-College Faculty recital on April 20. Weston Sprott, Dean and Director of Juilliard's Preparatory Division, expressed gratitude towards Mr. Kayden, stating, "We are incredibly grateful to Mr. Kayden for his generosity in supporting an inclusive future of repertoire for young musicians."

Jerold Kayden, a Pre-College alumnus, emphasized the importance of diversity in classical music, saying, "Marrying diverse living composers with Juilliard’s superb Pre-College faculty and student performers is an amazing opportunity to broaden the field of classical music."

Furthermore, as part of the program, Juilliard Pre-College has collaborated with the Interlochen Center for the Arts to co-commission a new orchestral work by Mary Watkins. This partnership will see the premiere of Watkins' piece, "The People's Awakening," on April 12 at Interlochen, followed by its New York premiere at Juilliard on May 4.

The Kayden Music Commissioning Program not only expands Juilliard's commitment to diverse repertoire but also enhances educational opportunities for young musicians. The collaboration with Interlochen aims to increase the reach of the commissions and foster artistic connections between students from both institutions.

The new program underscores Juilliard's dedication to inclusivity and innovation in classical music education. The school continues to provide a platform for aspiring musicians to develop their talents and engage with a broad spectrum of musical experiences.