Global Music Initiative

Music Without Borders

MacPhail’s Global Music Initiative (GMI) is an innovative, organization-wide effort to expand the definition of music education through inclusivity, creativity, and cultural connections. GMI holistically integrates the artistic, participative, and social dimensions of music into opportunities for students to explore diverse musical traditions. Through the unique power of music, GMI expands access to students from diverse backgrounds, fosters innovation in music education, and builds community through collaboration.

Elevated Performance Opportunities

GMI partners with local music venues to enrich students’ experience with elevated performance opportunities and meaningful connections to the professional music community. Exceptional instructors lead these tuition-free ensembles, which also benefit from special guest artists, masterclasses, and field trips to concerts. Ensembles include: 

Learn more about all of MacPhail’s community ensembles

K-12 Partnerships

GMI travels to schools across the Twin Cities to perform, connect with, and introduce students to MacPhail’s programming. 

Learn more about MacPhail’s comprehensive partnerships with K-12 schools throughout  Minnesota.

Global Influences

In partnership with 29:11, GMI artists and collaborators will travel to South Africa in February of 2025 to immerse themselves in the rich cultural landscape and connect with educators, students, and local musicians. Through experiences that range from recording a performance in Nelson Mandela’s cell to exploring traditional children’s songs and stories, the team’s goal is to deepen their cultural understanding and enrich their toolkit as teaching artists.