After thoughtful consideration, PRIZM Ensemble is canceling the 2020 Summer Music Camp and International Chamber Music Festival, originally scheduled for June 1-13. While this two-week event is our biggest program of the year, we made this difficult decision out of a concern for the health and safety of our students, teaching artists, staff and volunteers. Families who have registered for the camp will be directly notified by PRIZM staff and will receive a full refund.
We are closely monitoring the local government’s rollout plans for large gatherings in the future, as we’re currently discussing alternative music camp opportunities, potentially in the fall season. We understand school systems have different fall break schedules, and our hopes are to host multiple camps to accommodate school calendars.
Additionally in the interim, our staff will curate an array of virtual music programming for students to remain engaged in music education and instrumental study throughout the summer. Be on the lookout for updates!
Finally, PRIZM’s livelihood depends heavily on the annual summer camp and festival concert series. This program cancellation adds financial burdens on our organization, which already operates with minimal funding. As we approach Giving Tuesday Now on May 5, we kindly ask you to consider PRIZM among your donations, so that we may continue bringing quality, diverse music programming to the Mid-South. We understand this is a tough time for most families, and we are truly grateful for any amount you can give.
At PRIZM Ensemble, we believe that a community is strong when its people, regardless of race, gender or socioeconomic status, come together. We are confident our community will grow even stronger when we overcome this challenge. We thank you for your patience, understanding and continued support during these difficult times.
Stay healthy and play on,
Roderick Vester, Ph.D.
Executive Director
PRIZM Ensemble, Inc.