Educational Background/Training
Our Teaching Artists bring deep and diverse musical expertise, with training from institutions such as the Lausanne Conservatory, the Menuhin Music Academy, the Cleveland Institute of Music, VCU Department of Music, Temple University, and the Butler School of Music. They have put their craft into practice as music educators, orchestral and ensemble performers, and independent artists. In addition to teaching with Music Orchard Richmond (MOR), many of them also teach at Virginia Commonwealth University, William and Mary, and University of Richmond. You can see them perform with the Richmond Symphony Orchestra, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, or as freelancers in the Richmond and Norfolk areas. MOR is now in the third year of its In School Residency program, and currently has full year residency programs in Chesterfield Public Schools and partial year residencies in Richmond Public Schools. Each residency is crafted in collaboration with the school music teacher for ultimate success.
About the Artist/Ensemble
Music Orchard Richmond (MOR) provides inclusive access to high-quality music education. In 2023, MOR restructured its programming based on insights gleaned from conversations with over 30 school music teachers, principals, and community leaders. Since then, our programs have served over 200 students across 23 schools in the Greater Richmond region, intentionally working to remove the barriers students often face when trying to access music instruction and academic enrichment.
To support positive youth development and educational achievement, MOR offers in-school residencies and after-school music programs in collaboration with established partners such as public school systems, Peter Paul RVA, NextUp RVA, and the Robinson Theater. Rather than duplicating efforts, we work alongside existing organizations to strengthen and expand the educational impact of their offerings. Each MOR initiative is tailored to fit the needs of the communities it serves—enriching student learning, fostering creative expression, and supporting overall well-being. Students benefit not only from developing musical skills, but also show stronger academic performance, better school attendance, and self-reported growth in emotional regulation, confidence, and a sense of belonging.
While MOR is committed to increasing access for all, our focus is Title I schools and under-resourced communities. By removing financial, logistical, and cultural barriers, we ensure every child—regardless of background—has the opportunity to thrive through music education. MOR also prioritizes equitable employment for local educators and musicians and advocates for more inclusive access to the arts across the region. We believe that deep, collaborative partnerships and efficient use of existing resources are essential to building a stronger, more connected educational ecosystem.
MOR was named Metropolitan Business League’s 2025 Nonprofit of the Year and honored with Peter Paul RVA’s 2024 Community Partner Award.
Educational Program Description
In School Residency Program
Our In-School Residency Program supports schools by providing supplemental instruction in the form of sectionals, lessons (individual and group), and ensemble coachings. MOR provides Teaching Artists (TA’s) for both orchestra and band programs. Our Teaching Artists are available to visit schools as often as needed to work with students and enhance the instruction already being provided. Often our work takes the form of a semester long residency, but schools may also book shorter lengths as well as single sessions. All sessions are collaboratively customized between the school music teacher and the TA to best meet student needs. All TA’s are selected from the most qualified and experienced teachers and performers in the Richmond area, and undergo extensive background checking.
Music Group Classes
The first group class, Music and Technology, introduces our students to writing music by creating their own beats, bass lines, melodies, and effects using only their computer. This opportunity allows students to build both their musical abilities and technical skills, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. Our goal here is to reach not only musical students but students who may have a technology interest and give them both new ways to do their favorite things! This is an ideal program for middle and high schoolers and works best when offered in a series of 8 or more classes.
Our second class, Bucket Drumming, Cup Songs, Songwriting – Let’s Produce a Radio Show!, provides students with a strong foundation in musical knowledge. Instruction emphasizes fundamental skills such as active listening, rhythmic awareness, and musical expression, all of which support cognitive and social development. This is a great program for students of all ages, but may appeal more to Elementary and Middle School students. This program is great when offered as a series of 8 or more classes, but can also be modified for single classes.
Technical Requirements
In School Residency Program
No tech required, just space to work with students, music stands, chairs, ect.
Music and Technology
Students will need a laptop or chrome book, instructor will need access to internet, and preferably a large screen to broadcast to
Bucket Drumming, Cup Songs, Songwriting – Let’s Produce a Radio Show!
Instructor prefers to have access to loud speakers and a large screen if possible, as well as internet.
Fees
$125 – 60 minutes of group based sessions
$100 – 60 minutes of individual based sessions
For times differing from 60 minutes, please reach out to Music Orchard Richmond