Young Musician Leadership Conference
Play. Connect. Lead.
January 9, 2027 • University of Chicago • Hyde Park, Chicago
A one-day music and leadership experience for young women and gender-expansive high school brass musicians from across Illinois and the Midwest.
Apply / NominateThis Isn't a Competition. It's a Community.
The Brass Beyond Young Musician Leadership Conference is a day of music-making, mentorship, leadership development, and connection. Play side-by-side with professional brass musicians. Meet mentors and peers who understand your experience. Explore what leadership looks like in an ensemble and how those skills carry into school and life outside of music. This conference is about helping young musicians see their strengths, develop their voices, and grow as leaders in an affirming community of peers and professional role models.
Play
Rehearse and perform alongside professional musicians and Brass Beyond teaching artists. Find your voice and your place as a young brass player.
Learn & Lead
Participate in instrument-specific sessions and conversations about music, leadership, and navigating the brass world.
Connect
Build relationships with professional role models and peers from across Illinois who share your interests and experiences.
Who Should Apply?
High school students in grades 9–12 who play
Trumpet • Horn • Trombone • Euphonium • Tuba
The conference is designed to create a supportive space for young women and gender-expansive brass musicians. All experience levels are welcome.
You don't need to be the first chair. You don't need honor-band or private lesson experience. Bring your instrument, your curiosity, and your interest in growing as a musician and leader.
How to Participate
Students may be nominated by a teacher or nominate themselves.
Applicants will submit a short playing video to help us plan for the ensemble. It is not an audition, and participants will not be ranked by playing ability.
Applications will be reviewed by a three-person panel of Brass Beyond alumni and faculty.
Nomination / Application Deadline
November 15, 2026
Participation Fee
Free
Attendance Deposit
$25 — Fully Refunded Upon Attendance*
*Participants may choose to donate their deposit to support future Brass Beyond programs.
You Belong in the Brass Section.
Come make music, meet your community, and discover the leader you are becoming.
Apply / Nominate