OPEN TONE MUSIC
AKRON & CLEVELAND
Organizational Background: Music is a language that speaks to the heights and the depths of our humanity. For many young people and their communities, the life changing experience of music is out of reach. That is why OTM is dedicated to helping "provide access to premier music education and performance programming for all people.” OTM provides virtual and in-person arts experiences to underserved youth and their communities. Despite the pandemic, they are committed to ensuring that premier music education and performances are accessible to all.
Project: OTM implemented the “Amistad Caribbean Arts Camp,” a Cleveland-based music and arts program that was available to students worldwide this summer. Students in the program learned and explored the rich history and culture of the African Diaspora from the west African region to the Caribbean, North American, and Latin American cultures and gained a stronger sense of identity, an improved work ethic, and a heightened sense of respect for themselves and their community.