William Grant Still Initiative
The Conductors Retreat at Medomak is resolute in its commitment to continue its actions to combat systemic racism, achieve diversity, and forge racial equity. We established the William Grant Still Initiative in 2020 to build on the legacy of William Grant Still (1895-1978) as a pioneer American Black conductor and composer. William Grant Still, composer of over 150 works, was the first Black conductor of a major American symphony orchestra (1936), and a major symphony orchestra in the Deep South (1955). We honor and celebrate William Grant Still’s groundbreaking achievements and pioneering work by making this Initiative an integral part of our program and supporting the diversity and inclusion work of our alumni in their own communities.
The William Grant Still Initiative:
- Identifies prospective and potential Black conductors
- Offers the William Grant Still Scholarship to fund the participation of selected Black conductors in the annual Retreat
- Provides essential training, education, and mentorship to Black conductors
- Facilitates meaningful dialogue about diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Inspires all Retreat participants to incorporate anti-racist action into the work of their organizations.
The first phase each winter/spring includes reaching out nationwide to invite workshop participants. We aim to reach those musicians who have not yet had the option to conduct, as well as those already immersed in the practice of conducting. During a free virtual workshop, we explore the leadership attributes, technical skills, theoretical and historical knowledge, and artistry which are required in order to pursue a life and career as a conductor, provide a preview of the annual Retreat experience, and guidance about the scholarship application process.
Phase 2: Teaching and Developing
The Second Phase includes awarding the William Grant Still Scholarship to selected Phase 1 participants, providing them with expenses and full tuition to the on-site Retreat in Maine and mentoring post-Retreat. It also continues the permanent diversity, equity, and inclusion component in the curriculum for all of the Retreat’s participants and encourages actions which contribute to equitable repertoire, inclusive performance venues, and anti-discriminatory hiring practices.
The William Grant Still Fellows lead this component, and guide formal and informal discussions, and practical training for all of the Retreat’s participants.
2023 William Grant Still Fellows
Phase 3: Mentoring and Empowering
The final phase offers ongoing mentorship for the William Grant Still Scholarship recipients, and facilitates communication and collaboration among alumni as they develop diverse and inclusive projects in their own communities. The Conductors Retreat at Medomak aspires to establish a re-granting program in order to support alumni in their innovative diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
The Conductors Retreat at Medomak gratefully acknowledges our
William Grant Still Initiative Advisory Partner
