Roses in Bloom
Performance Studies alum Arlesia McGowan's (M.A. '20) non-profit organization, ClassiX Arts, presents a virtual performance to help raise awareness and funds for their first cohort of students starting this Fall.
Of the event, McGowan says, "Join us for a night dedicated to Black excellence in classical artistry. We've brought esteemed artists from the Juilliard School, New England Conservatory, Manhattan School, Atlanta Ballet, NYU Tisch School of the Arts, Harvard University. This virtual concert experience features the many faces of Black classical music and dance. From Florence Price to James Lee III, we’re paying homage to Black classical artistry in its many forms and iterations. ClassiX is a non-profit organization dedicated to igniting creative agency in young Black students aged 8-18 through providing free conservatory level training, an immersive afro-centric educational experience, and cultivating a fortified ecosystem of Black classical artists. Our goal is to raise $5,000, which will go towards our infrastructure and programming, payment for our artists, as well as financial support for our first cohort of students to come in October of 2021."
Founded by Tisch Performance Studies alumna, Arlesia McGowan, ClassiX is a non-profit organization dedicated to igniting creative agency in young Black students through providing free conservatory level training, an immersive afro-centric educational experience, and cultivating a fortified ecosystem of Black classical artists.
The “X” factor is the incorporation of the Afrocentric historical and cultural relevance. With the inclusion of Black narratives and histories, the so-called classical performance takes on a new form, revivified by the strength and fortitude of Black art and culture.
ClassiX Arts aims to connect the cultural and historical relevance of the African diaspora into classical arts education - from the beginning of instruction. We envision a world where young classical musicians and ballet dancers can freely pursue their artistry bolstered by cultural connection, resources, and equitable education. Through incorporating the cultural and historical contributions of the African diaspora, ClassiX serves to introduce Afro-centric educational curriculum to young inspiring classical musicians and ballet dancers free of charge. ClassiX Arts is decolonizing these Western European artforms by integrating Black cultural significance into our education and performance, and platforms.