NYC Gazette

In recent years, Juilliard's Preparatory Division has embarked on a commissioning journey aimed at creating a more inclusive repertoire for young musicians. According to Weston Sprott, dean and director of the division, the goal is to "forge a path toward a more inclusive and pedagogically valuable repertoire for young musicians." Over 50 new works have been commissioned in the past three years, supported by Pre-College alum Jerold Kayden, ensuring the initiative continues with several new commissions each year.

The initiative includes co-commissions, broadening involvement among young musicians and educators while increasing performance opportunities globally. Sprott stated that these works "expose our broader community to the creation and performance of new music and increase their understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures and perspectives." The effort aims to elevate creators from all backgrounds.

Composer Jeff Scott, known for his roots in Brooklyn and Queens, is one of those commissioned. He described his influences: “Growing up, my best friends were Puerto Rican and Hasidic Jewish...all of that stuff comes out like a doggone stew in my music.” His piece "Count Down: Ten Minutes to Live" premiered in November as part of the Kayden Music Commissioning Program at Juilliard Pre-College and was also co-commissioned with Interlochen.

Scott shared insights into his work process: “Weston came to me and asked me to write something around 10 minutes long for the Pre-College Orchestra.” His inspiration came from an online video asking people what they would do if they had only ten minutes left to live. This led him to create a piece capturing intense emotions within a short timeframe.

Working with students has been rewarding for Scott: “I’ve connected with them throughout the process...they were excited about Mahler and Strauss...so I knew I was on the right track.” He emphasized introducing students to themes like samba beats and Afrobeats alongside traditional European music.

Reflecting on hearing his work performed live for the first time, Scott expressed joy: “There’s really something special about watching young people perform your work.”

Sprott spoke highly of Scott's influence: “More than 20 years—and I have enormous respect for him as a performer and composer.” Highlighting Scott's positive spirit, Sprott noted its importance in making rigorous programming enjoyable for students who commit significantly by attending sessions regularly.

Scott is also engaging with Pre-College and MAP classes. Sprott commented on this interaction: “I guarantee that when those kids leave the room, they’re all going to feel better about themselves than they did when they walked in.”

Susan Jackson serves as editor-in-chief of the Journal.