New World Symphony

The New World Symphony (NWS), known as America’s Orchestral Academy, is a distinguished institution based in Miami, Florida, dedicated to the preparation of music graduates for leadership roles in professional orchestras and ensembles. Founded in 1987 by Artistic Director Laureate Michael Tilson Thomas alongside Lin and Ted Arison, the NWS has been instrumental in advancing the careers of over 1,150 alumni across the globe. As an educational and artistic laboratory, the New World Symphony provides up to three-year fellowships to young musicians, offering them comprehensive exposure to both traditional and modern orchestral repertoire. The fellows receive professional development training and engage in personalized experiences with leading guest conductors, soloists, and visiting faculty. The NWS also embraces technological advancements in music education through its extensive use of internet-based distance learning. The New World Symphony operates out of the Frank Gehry-designed New World Center, which serves as both its campus and performance venue. The center is equipped with state-of-the-art practice and ensemble rooms, as well as the Knight New Media Center, which facilitates the organization's innovative educational initiatives. Each year, the New World Symphony receives over 1,500 applications from recent music school and conservatory graduates, out of which approximately 35 are selected for fellowships. These fellows are chosen based on their musical accomplishments, potential, and their dedication to the future of classical music. The mission of the New World Symphony is to ensure that music graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in the world of classical music. The organization's vision is to secure a robust future for classical music by redefining and sharing its traditions with a broad audience. Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are central to the NWS's objectives, as they are considered vital in shaping the next generation of musical leaders. The New World Symphony is committed to inclusiveness, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds and ensuring that its fellowship, board of trustees, staff, and volunteers are provided with the resources necessary to succeed. The organization's educational and artistic programming, presentations, community collaborations, and communications are designed to reflect this commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging. Under the artistic direction of Michael Tilson Thomas, the New World Symphony maintains an environment of civility and mutual respect, with a philosophy of continuous improvement. The NWS upholds the highest ethical standards, integrity, and professionalism, with strict adherence to these principles. This includes a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, comprehensive harassment prevention policies, and a commitment to a harassment-free educational and workplace environment. The New World Symphony also partners with external organizations to develop and administer personnel policies, ensuring a safe and respectful educational and work environment. Annual training is provided to all fellows and employees to prevent harassment and discrimination, and the organization has established clear policies and serious consequences for violations. In summary, the New World Symphony is a beacon of excellence in music education, performance, and community engagement, fostering the next generation of musicians and leaders in the classical music industry while upholding a culture of respect, inclusivity, and ethical integrity.