Every Teaching Artist is supported by someone who observes their teaching, provides feedback, and works through the everyday challenges of role and the work with them. Those supports range from program directors to site managers to lead teachers or artistic coordinators. 

Many of these leaders step into supervision because they are gifted musicians and educators. Following a successful pilot of the program, we are launching the Leaders Fellowship to meet the gap in leaders’ needs by working to ensure that these leaders have the necessary tools to support and empower teaching artists to do their best work. 

A national learning community for people who lead Teaching Artists

The Leaders Fellowship is a brand-new, six-month professional learning experience for up to 25 professionals who supervise, mentor, and support music Teaching Artists. It was designed with community music and El Sistema-inspired programs in mind. Fellows build their skills as supervisors, support the growth of the Teaching Artists on their teams, and shape environments where educators and students can thrive.

From January through June 2027, Fellows move through a cycle of learning, application, and reflection. Topics include:

• Instructional leadership
• Equity-centered supervision
• Managing people and peers
• Navigating difficult conversations

Live, virtual workshops led by experienced faculty focus on practical skills, such as observing teaching, giving meaningful feedback, and working through relationships at work with care.

Learning that connects to your real work

Each month follows a rhythm. Fellows start with a faculty-led workshop, and then they take new approaches back to their own organizations and reflect on their leadership habits. A small, consistent peer discussion group, guided by a respected leader in the field, gives them a place to share challenges and exchange ideas. The month closes with time to integrate what they’ve learned and decide on next steps for supporting their Teaching Artists.

That shared practice is a big part of what makes the experience work. Shanna Lin, Director of the Paterson Music Project and a pilot Leaders Fellow, share this insight:

“Although our programs look different, we face many of the same challenges around consistency and accountability. That common ground allowed us to dig deeply into those issues and develop solutions that work across different programs and organizations.”

Learning and sharing together in Miami, Florida

The Fellowship wraps with a weeklong, in-person Capstone Learning Retreat in Miami, June 20–26, 2027. Fellows deepen their learning through collaborative workshops, reflection, and time with a national community of colleagues committed to strengthening music education.

What to know before you apply

• Time commitment: about 24 hours of live learning, January through June 2027, plus the required Miami retreat
• Cost: every accepted Fellow receives a full program scholarship valued at $6,500; a $250 refundable deposit secures your spot and is fully refunded in July 2027 after you complete the Fellowship; you or your sponsoring organization can pay the deposit
• Selection: applications are reviewed holistically, considering alignment with TATI’s Core Values, a demonstrated commitment to professional growth, and your role in supervising and supporting Teaching Artists

Key dates:

• Nov 1: Applications open
• Nov 30: Application deadline
• Dec 11: Decisions shared
• Jan 6: Mandatory orientation
• Jan 8: Program begins
• Jun 20-26: Program concludes in Miami

Ready to lead with intention?

If you support Teaching Artists, or you know someone who does, please submit an application by November 30. To learn more about the Leaders Fellowship Program, please visit: https://tatraininginstitute.org/leaders-fellowship/.