The Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation, in partnership with the Miami Downtown Development Authority, continues its outreach initiative with a generous instrument donation and residency program valued at $25,000 benefiting the New World School of the Arts music division. This initiative provides financial support through the donation of musical instruments, offering students valuable resources and hands-on experience through mentorship, and a residency program with a Latin GRAMMY award winning artist.
The Latin GRAMMY In The Schools Program and Music Instrument Donation initiative featured three in-person workshop sessions at NWSA led by Carlitos Lopez, a Latin GRAMMY-winning director and producer, who collaborated with the NWSA Jazz Ensemble and the Orchestra on new Latin compositions tailored for the students. The initiative culminated with final performances, where the Jazz Ensemble followed by the Orchestra students showcased their work in front of a select audience that included team members of the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation, Christina Crespi, CEO and Executive Director of the Miami DDA accompanied by other members of the agency, District 4 Commissioner Ralph “Rafael” Rosado, and other distinguished guests.
“It’s such an important endeavor to connect the Latin music industry educations programs. This is where we harvest and find those who will be making music in the future,” said Lopez. Carlitos Lopez “confessed” that, despite facing personal challenges that hindered his writing, he managed to compose a jazz piece in just two days. He dedicated this work to his wife, who was also in attendance for its premiere performance.
Raquel “Rocky” Egusquiza, Executive Director of the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation, addressed both groups of students before their performances, emphasizing the generosity and collaboration of the DDA. She expressed the Foundation’s commitment to supporting the next generation of Latin music creators, ensuring the preservation of Latin music and culture for future generations. Rocky also underscored the significance of continued involvement in education as students embark on their artistic careers, citing recent Latin GRAMMY Foundation music alums who have benefited from the scholarship program.
The day concluded with a lively photo opportunity, showcasing the instruments and the generous donation made to the students, followed by a heartfelt celebration at the school.
The Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation® is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization established by The Latin Recording Academy® with the vision of becoming a global champion of music education and empowering communities through Latin music and culture. In 2024, the Foundation celebrated its 10-year anniversary, and during the last decade, it has fostered the next generation of Latin music creators through scholarships, education programs and grants that advance Latin music and celebrate its rich cultural heritage. To date, the Foundation has donated more than $13.9 million with the support of The Latin Recording Academy’s members, artists, corporate sponsors and other generous donors.
The academic music curriculum at New World School of the Arts fosters creativity and develops a knowledge of musical heritage. Course work develops the student’s growth and maturity in comprehensive musicianship. The study of music history and theory is pursued by taking a variety of classes, including foundations of music; surveys of music history in the western world, jazz and pop music in America, and music of the world’s people; and seminars in composition aesthetics, jazz improvisation, chamber music, and general musicianship. Students receive private lessons each term. The Private Lesson program offered by the music division is unique. Each student has the privilege of studying on a one-on-one basis with the New World artist faculty. Rigorous daily practice and preparation is expected of each student with their progress closely monitored. Each student is required to perform a solo jury at the end of each semester before the entire faculty of their area. Information about New World School of the Arts music division at 305-237-3622.
A Florida center of excellence in the visual and performing arts, New World School of the Arts is an educational partnership of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Miami Dade College, and University of Florida. NWSA provides a comprehensive program of artistic, creative, and academic development through a curriculum that reflects our community and the rich multicultural state of Florida. Through our partners NWSA confers the high school diploma, Associate of Arts degree, and Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Music degrees in programs accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance, Music, Theater and Art & Design. NWSA’s rigorous eight-year curriculum and conservatory-style teaching has empowered students in our community and our nation to become leaders in the arts for more three decades. Information about New World School of the Arts at 305-237-3135 or nwsa.mdc.edu.