We Are Nashville Festival

A program of Community Arts Collective in partnership with the Nashville Symphony
Date: March 30, 2026
Location: Schermerhorn Symphony Center
Participants: Metro Nashville Public and Charter School Music Ensembles

Students & Parents

Who can participate in the Festival?
The Festival is open to Metro Nashville Public and Charter School music ensembles, including band, choir, and orchestra students.

Is there a cost for students?
Yes. A $20 participation fee helps cover Festival expenses, collected by your music teacher unless otherwise instructed. Financial assistance is available to ensure all students may participate.

What can students expect?
Students will take part in collaborative rehearsals, workshops with professional artists, and a culminating performance on stage at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center.

What is the attire for the performance?
Festival T-shirts are provided for all participants. Students will pair this with black performance attire.

How is transportation handled?
Transportation will be coordinated by each participating school. Families should consult their music educator for details.

Are meals provided for students?
Yes. Lunch and light refreshments will be provided for all student participants on the day of the Festival. Dietary needs can be indicated during registration so accommodations may be made where possible.

Educators

How does an ensemble apply?
Directors submit an application by the published deadline. Accepted ensembles will receive preparation materials, repertoire, and scheduling information.

What are the expectations for directors?
Directors are responsible for submitting necessary fieldtrip paperwork required by school, preparing students on assigned repertoire, supervising their ensemble during the event, and maintaining communication with the Festival team and parents.

Directors also participate in two required meetings:

• Educator Planning Day in January at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center — a day of professional learning, repertoire study, and collaboration with colleagues and artists.

• Virtual Festival Preparation Meeting the weekend before the Festival — a final review of the schedule, logistics, and performance flow.

How is repertoire chosen?
Repertoire is selected by the Festival programmatic team. It includes a blend of traditional works, culturally relevant pieces, and new arrangements created to reflect our Nashville community. Many works will be arranged or composed by Nashville artists.

Local Artists

How are artists selected?
Artists are invited based on alignment with the Festival’s mission, educational value, and capacity to collaborate with students.

What roles do artists play?
Artists may lead workshops, join rehearsals, perform with ensembles, and share their creative experiences with students.

Are artists compensated?
Yes. Stipends are provided in recognition of artists’ time and expertise.

What is expected beyond performance?
Artists are asked to engage with students in meaningful ways — mentoring, collaborating, and inspiring young musicians through their example.