The Festival Story

MISSION: To build community through music

VISION: Through music we will transcend barriers, foster unity, spark creativity and awaken dreams.

HOW IT BEGAN
Bryson Finney, Co-founder and Director, is a music educator in the Nashville area. As an educator at the Elementary level, his goal has always been to inspire young minds, to plant a seed and ignite a dream. "You can change a child's mindset and trajectory in life simply by what you expose them to," states B.Finney. The event was initially birthed in 2017 through the vision and collaboration of past Metro Nashville Public Schools English Learner Director, Dr. Kevin Stacy, and current Event Director, Bryson Finney. Combined with the efforts of Music Educators Christopher Blackmon, Ann Marie Morris, Kathryn Affainie, Dr. Nita Smith and Franklin Willis, supported by previous MNPS Arts Director Dr. Nola Jones, the initial design of “We Are Nashville” was established in the Spring of 2018. The We Are Nashville Festival, thanks to the support of local partners and sponsors, strategically exists year after year during the month of March, also known as "Music in Our Schools Month".
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THE FESTIVAL MODEL
The Festival is more than a show, it's an experience!
During the Festival day participating students from all over the city gather to enjoy music-based workshops and rehearsals fostering opportunities for exposure, education and engagement. The day concludes with a musical performance open to the community. The beauty of this event is evident in its ability to unite communities throughout Nashville through the artistic expression that makes this city so special, MUSIC!
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